Explication
Every day
Biblical commentaries
What were the Pharisees and scribes looking for when they asked Jesus for a sign? Certainly actions that would accredit him among the Jewish people. And yet, Jesus performed miracles and gave speeches about him. They were not convinced to recognize the messiahship of Jesus. They wanted more. But Jesus does not satisfy their request. He refers them to the sign of the prophet Jonah as the only one that will be given to them. He explains: “as Jonah remained in the belly of the sea monster three days and three nights, so will the Son of Man remain in the heart of the earth three days and three nights”, in reference to his death and resurrection.
Although this fundamental event took place at a specific moment in human history, it remains the timeless sign of the salvation that Jesus brings to humanity. Through his passion, his death and his resurrection, he traced the path that leads to the Father. It takes on meaning in the existence of men and women and acts as a force of inner transformation. The more we believe in it and adhere to it, the more our life is transformed into the image of Christ incarnate. The mission of the Church consists essentially of announcing to the world this redemptive work of the paschal mystery through the preaching of the gospel and the celebration of the sacraments. It’s up to everyone to play their part!
Other readings: Mi 6, 1-4.6-8; Ps 49 (50)
