The world has not changed all that much over the last 2000 years…
… and perhaps even longer in the respect that people allowing their human nature to show are ever more frustrated over how things are going and seeking some sign that there is “light at the end of the tunnel” according to how they believe.
We saw that in our recent election as voters swing back and forth from one party to another thinking that they will solve the ills of our society and yet we continue to be disappointed it seems when the next election cycle comes up. Today I would like to share with you another group of people who were seeking some sort of sign in answer to their concerns but they did not realize the answer they were searching for was already in their presence as is that answer for those of us who continue to be disillusioned by the world’s affairs.
In Matthew 16:1-4 two groups (the Pharisees and Sadducees) who would normally be at odds with each other joined forces to try and corner Christ Jesus who had performed miracles and attacked their traditions and was gaining a considerable following. They did so by asking for a sign from heaven as they believed earthly evidences were more from satan and only heavenly signs were from God (ex. Rainbow after the flood, manna from heaven, etc.). What they failed to see was that in the words of Christ about rebuilding the temple in 3 days and the example of Jonah in the belly of the whale for 3 days they were being told that the ultimate heavenly sign stood before them which would be evidenced by His death and resurrection 3 days after that death on the cross.
For me I am assured each new day by the events of that day of the message our Lord would have us understand. Unlike those who opposed Christ in His time on earth I do not seek something supernatural when the evidence for Christ is all around me. The educated and arrogant nature the Pharisees and Sadducees showed still remains today in our political and educational institutions as we often see in their challenging the faith of we who hold to a simple but easily understood (for those not blind) belief in God’s Holy Word. Furthermore, I believe that no matter the evidence many will still not believe. As we see in Matthew 16 Jesus condemns the hypocrisy of those who opposed Him during His time on earth and today many are in danger of that same condemnation if they are not careful. The SIGN OF THE TIMES are clearly evident. Don’t let money, power, or any other object of distraction blind you to those signs.
THOUGHT FOR TODAY: The sign of salvation is seen in our Savior and His death and resurrection.
DEVOTIONAL VERSE FOR TODAY: Matthew 16:3 “the sign of the times”.
PRAYER FOR TODAY: Lord continue to open my eyes to the signs of your presence.
QUESTIONS TO THINK ABOUT:
1. What are the signs of the times?
2. What causes frustration and how is it cured?
3. How does a free society and mankind’s freedom of the will deal with life’s complexities?
4. How evident is Christ’s message to you?
*** Gary Jerke *** Is a former State Representative, author and Life and Liberty News contributor
