How many times do we find ourselves asking Jesus ‘for a sign’? Maybe we can take the time to reflect on all the signs around us that witness to Jesus’ presence in our daily lives: the beauty of creation, the gift of love within families, the gift of compassion for those who are suffering, the strength and courage of those who reach out to those who are on the margins of society, the fidelity of those committed to living their gift of married life, the commitment of those who have responded to the call to follow Christ as disciples through ordained ministry and the living of the consecrated life, and the vision of those who commit themselves to new adventures. 

There are also situations where we may struggle to know the sign of Jesus’ presence – we only have to read the newspapers, watch the daily news reports from around the world and within our own environments. The sign of Jesus’ presence can be experienced when we see those people in our communities who are working for peace and harmony, who take the courageous steps to be people of the gospel, to relieve the suffering and devastation in war-torn countries, to welcome the homeless into a safe environment, and to be the witnesses of Jesus’ presence to all those with whom they encounter. 

May the sign of Jesus’ presence be our source of strength and courage as we respond to the call to mission.

By Ursula O’Rourke sgs