While still more people gathered in the crowd, Jesus said to them, "This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah. Just as Jonah became a sign to the Ninevites, so will the Son of Man be to this generation. (Luke 11:29b-30)

As the crowds around Jesus grew larger, Jesus began to speak, saying: People of the present time are evil people. They ask for a sign, but no sign will be given to them except the sign of Jonah. Just as Jonah was a “sign to” the Ninevites in his preaching and they repented, Jesus is a “sign to” this generation. Do they listen? On the contrary, they ask for proof, they have a difficult time believing Jesus as the Messiah, the Anointed Son of God sent to save them. They were too analytical! Frankly, being analytical is a good thing. In fact, success people often analyze things before they decide on doing something. Analysis is a very important step when making decisions in life whether it be for business or future career. But as the saying goes, “too much of anything is not good”. People today likewise ask for signs and proofs about Jesus Christ. They were too-too much in questioning Jesus, how did He heal the lepers, the blind, where did He get the authority to forgive sin?  The problem is that proof is not the same as faith. As a matter of fact, proof drives out faith. Faith, after all, exists without proof. If a person has proof, then he or she does not have faith. Let us look at LOVE as an example. True love, does not demand proofs. One loves without proof. Does a mother demand that her child proves his or her love for her? No, of course not! She loves anyway. That is why Saint Paul declares that we walk by faith, not by sight. Too much analyzing has lead them to paralyze their faith.

What about you?

Are you locked in analytical mode when you pray?

Is too much analysis paralyzing your faith?

God sent his only Son, who died on the cross. What other sign or proof do we need?

We thank you, heavenly Father, that you have delivered us from the dominion of sin and death and brought us into the kingdom of your Son; and we pray that, as by his death he has recalled us to life, so by his love he may raise us to eternal joys; who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and forever. Amen.

Peace in Christ,
Father Vincent-Vuong Nguyen