GOSPEL POWER | FEBRUARY 15, 2021

MONDAY | 6TH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME

Gospel: MK 8:11-13

The Pharisees came and began to argue with Jesus, asking him for a sign from heaven, to test him. And he sighed deeply in his spirit and said, “Why does this generation ask for a sign? Truly I tell you, no sign will be given to this generation.” And he left them, and getting

into the boat again, he went across to the other side.

REFLECTION

The motive of the Pharisees for seeking a heavenly sign from Jesus is clearly stated by Mark — to test Jesus. It is merely ego-tripping. Jesus works signs in order to lead people to faith. He heals and exorcises to remove the blocks that keep people from opening up their lives to God’s Kingdom. Those who, like the Pharisees, are convinced about their own holiness, have their hearts locked up, and no sign can unlock them. Thus, Jesus refuses to be part of their senseless ego game. He leaves, not because he wants to abandon them in their hardness of heart, but because God always respects human freedom and will neither impose nor insist.

PRAYER

Lord Jesus, purify our notion of holiness. Grant that we may humbly see ourselves as you see us and trust your grace to transform us. Amen.