The Word God Spells

Mark 8: 11-13
Gn 4:1-15.25 / Ps 50

Why does this generation seek a sign?
(Mark 8:12)

Why do we have to look for signs,
For revelations God must reveal?
We'll understand all of God's designs
By being faithful to His will.


The Pharisees came and began to argue with him, seeking from him a sign from heaven to test him. And he sighed deeply in his spirit and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Truly, I say to you, no sign will be given to this generation.” And he left them, got into the boat again, and went to the other side. (Mk.8:11-13)

Reflection

Those who seek signs will never develop their faith. The true believers who “see” with their heart will not be swayed from the truth, but those who rely on their eyes are often deceived by the devil’s sleight of hand. How many times do we have to watch a magician’s trick to realize that it’s all an illusion and not reality?

If we allow signs and wonders to prop up our faith, then we are missing the message of the Gospel entirely. Instead of looking for signs, or praying to God for them, we should instead be reading the Bible more often, because the Word of God is more powerful than unexplainable phenomena in transforming our souls. Miraculous signs may perk up our spirits for a time, but they are short-lived. Only the Word of God makes a lasting impression. Jesus wants us to put our trust in His Word because He knows that in the last days the anti-Christ will come to employ signs and wonders to deceive many whose faiths are weak. The Book of Revelation, 13:13 warns: “The beast performed great signs, even making fire come down from heaven to earth in the sight of everyone.” And Jesus predicted, “For there shall arise false Christs, and false prophets, and shall show great signs and wonders; so much that, if it were possible, they will even deceive the very elect.” (Mt. 24:24)

In fact, even Jesus’ own apostles were not exempt from the devil’s deception to rely on their eyes and not on their faith. When Thomas was told that the Lord had risen, he said, “Unless I see the mark of the nails in His hands … I will not believe.” Jesus later told him:”Thomas, have you come to believe because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen, and have believed ” (Jn. 20:24-29).

True faith relies on God’s Word, and not on wonders of any kind. In many instances, our Lord performed miracles of healing on those who believed. But for those who asked for proof or signs, He could only say, “Truly, I say to you, no sign will be given to this generation.”

Grant us the grace, dear Lord, to “walk by faith and not by sight” (2Cor. 5:7), so that whatever situation may befall us, we will never fear or doubt, but proceed in love and trust. Amen.