Daily Readings - Wed Mar 01 2023
Luke
29As the crowds increased, Jesus said, "This is a wicked generation. It asks for a miraculous sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah.30For as Jonah was a sign to the Ninevites, so also will the Son of Man be to this generation.31The Queen of the South will rise at the judgment with the men of this generation and condemn them; for she came from the ends of the earth to listen to Solomon's wisdom, and now one greater than Solomon is here.32The men of Nineveh will stand up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it; for they repented at the preaching of Jonah, and now one greater than Jonah is here.
Sermon
The Gospel passage today is a powerful reminder of the importance of faith and repentance. Jesus speaks to a crowd that is seeking a sign, a way to test His authenticity. He tells them that no sign will be given, except the sign of Jonah, referencing the prophet who called the people of Nineveh to repentance. Jesus then contrasts the current generation with those who responded to Jonah’s preaching and the queen of the South who sought Solomon’s wisdom. He emphasizes that the current generation has been given something greater than Jonah and Solomon—Himself—and yet they still resist believing.
This passage is set in the context of Jesus’ ministry, where He is being tested by the Pharisees and the crowd. They are seeking a sign, not out of genuine faith, but to challenge His authority. Jesus’ response is a call to recognize the signs that are already present—in His teachings, miracles, and presence among them. The people of Nineveh and the queen of the South serve as examples of those who responded with faith and humility to the wisdom and message they received. Jesus is calling His audience, and us, to a similar response.
In our daily lives, we often find ourselves seeking signs or assurances before fully committing to God. We might question His presence or doubt His plan for us. But Jesus reminds us that He is the ultimate sign, the revelation of God’s love and wisdom. Like the queen of the South and the people of Nineveh, we are called to repentance and faith. Let us not harden our hearts but instead open ourselves to the truth that is already before us. May we respond with humility and trust, recognizing the greatness of what God has given us in Jesus Christ.