Monday, February 17, 2003
6^th Week in Ordinary Time

1st Reading: Gen 4:1-15, 25
Gospel: Mk 8:11-13

The Pharisees came and started to argue with Jesus. Hoping to embarrass him, they asked for some heavenly sign. Then his spirit was moved. He gave a deep sigh and said, “Why do the people of this present time ask for a sign? Truly, I say to you, no sign shall be given to this people.” Then he left them, got into the boat again and went to the other side of the lake.

Gospel Commentary

We read in the Gospels of the many signs and wonders Jesus worked, which certainly would be sufficient proof that He was from God. But for the Pharisees, these signs are unsatisfactory. Still they were looking for something more—a heavenly sign perhaps. However, Jesus says no more signs will be given. He has given many of them, but because their hearts are closed they cannot see. Faith requires an openness, a willingness to accept ordinary reasons for believing.

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