Sign of the Times

The Pharisees and Sadducees came, and to test Jesus they asked him to show them a sign from heaven. He answered them, ‘When it is evening, you say, “It will be fair weather, for the sky is red.” And in the morning, “It will be stormy today, for the sky is red and threatening.” You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times. An evil and adulterous generation asks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah.’ Then he left them and went away. When the disciples reached the other side, they had forgotten to bring any bread. Jesus said to them, ‘Watch out, and beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees.’ They said to one another, ‘It is because we have brought no bread.’ And becoming aware of it, Jesus said, ‘You of little faith, why are you talking about having no bread? Do you still not perceive? Do you not remember the five loaves for the five thousand, and how many baskets you gathered? Or the seven loaves for the four thousand, and how many baskets you gathered? How could you fail to perceive that I was not speaking about bread? Beware of the yeast of the Pharisees and Sadducees!’ Then they understood that he had not told them to beware of the yeast of bread, but of the teaching of the Pharisees and Sadducees. Matthew 16:1-12

It is comforting to know that even the disciples often misunderstood what Jesus said. We all want signs that confirm our opinions and give us directions. We are called to walk in faith and yet we all want a reliable GPS for faith. I love maps, and love finding back routes and out of the way places that cannot be found from the highway or the standard navigation tools. Jesus calls us to listen, look up and take each step, each day in faith. Rules and tools are so much easier, yet the way of love is shaped by God alone.

Precious Creator, you hung the stars

giving us a way to chart the seas

teaching us ways to be community

renewing us in every season.

Help us in these times to follow you

guide our steps as we step out in faith

let all our words and actions be love

and let us share your love with others. Amen.