“You know how to interpret the appearance of the earth and the sky; why do you not know how to interpret the present time?” (Lk 12:58) 

 

In today’s gospel, Jesus shows his frustration toward those who cannot see what is happening right in front of their own eyes.  They understood that if wind blew from the west that it came from the Mediterranean Sea bringing rain.  If the wind blew from the south it came from the desert bringing hot weather.  If they were so good at reading these signs, then why could they not be as equally perceptive at reading the signs that are taking place before their very eyes?  Why could they not see the false agendas of the Pharisees who sought to destroy him while he preached a message of love and forgiveness performing one sign after another.  They had heard him teach in the synagogues, in the towns and in the countryside.  They had seen him heal the sick, feed the hungry, calm storms and exercise demons from people.  Yet, they still failed to or refused to recognize who Jesus was.  Jesus calls them hypocrites. The truth about Jesus was right before their eyes. They knew. They understood. But they refused to accept it. 

 

We too have heard Jesus’s words in the Gospels.  We have heard his message of love, forgiveness, and compassion.    We have experience him personally through the Eucharist.  It is time for each one of us to read the clear signs that God is calling us through Jesus to respond to his message of love and compassion.  What are the signs that Jesus is present in your life?  How is He calling you to grow and change?  How do you show love, mercy and compassion toward others? 

Deacon Joe Trevino

St. Clare of Assisi Catholic Church

Houston, TX