Today’s Scripture Readings

Once Jesus was asked by the Pharisees when the kingdom of God was coming, and he answered, ‘The kingdom of God is not coming with things that can be observed; nor will they say, “Look, here it is!” or “There it is!” For, in fact, the kingdom of God is among you.’

Then he said to the disciples, ‘The days are coming when you will long to see one of the days of the Son of Man, and you will not see it. They will say to you, “Look there!” or “Look here!” Do not go, do not set off in pursuit. For as the lightning flashes and lights up the sky from one side to the other, so will the Son of Man be in his day. But first he must endure much suffering and be rejected by this generation.

When asked by the Pharisees when the Kingdom would come, Jesus responds, ‘The kingdom of God is not coming with things that can be observed… For in fact, the kingdom of God is among you.’ It would be a lot easier to believe based on what we can see, but that is not faith. Faith is a leap beyond what we can know; mystery is part of the journey.

Yet, despite knowing this, we still often look for concrete signs. Jesus knows that those who follow Him will be looking for a sign and often not find one. He encourages us not to be distracted or discouraged. Rather, we need to be steadfast in faith, not letting ourselves be swayed one way or another, and trust that God’s promises will be fulfilled in His time, not ours.

Unlike the disciples, to whom Jesus says, ‘first he must endure much suffering and be rejected’ we know what is ahead in the Gospel. We have already received a great sign, a love beyond all others expressed by Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross.

When we are looking for a sign, Jesus invites us to reflect on where we seek God’s presence. Am I looking for signs and wonders, or can I recognise Christ in the Eucharist, in Scripture, and in those around me? Be reminded that the Kingdom of Heaven is already in our midst. As such, we are called to live a life filled with faith, hope, and love, knowing that Christ reigns amongst us even now, and will come again in glory.

Jesus, help me to recognise the Kingdom of God in my midst. Keep me focused on You, avoiding distractions that draw me away from Your grace and mercy. Amen.