Engage Scripture: Luke - Sign of Jonah
Dear Sister Disciple,
When we open our Bible and engage in Scripture something special happens. We encounter the Author. In today’s reading, we join the crowd as Jesus explains the only sign this generation would see.
Reading Plan – Luke 11:29-32
The Word
As the crowds increased, Jesus said, “This is a wicked generation. It asks for a sign, but none will be given it except the sign of Jonah… The men of Nineveh will stand up at the judgment with this generation and condemn it, for they repented at the preaching of Jonah; and now something greater than Jonah is here.
Luke 11:29 & 32
Contemplative Reflection
Jesus was not given to deception or blinded by the crowds.
Jesus knew why they were there. The crowds came for the miracles, like children lining up for a Disney ride. They came seeking to see signs and wonders.
Oh! Don’t get me wrong. Jesus still taught, healed, and cared for the crowds. But none of these things were good enough for these shallow seekers – the wicked generation.
Every Jewish man, woman, and child knew the story of Jonah.
It is interesting to note that Jesus gives us a window into what would happen on Judgement Day. The Queen of Sheba (South) and the men of Nineveh will bear witness against them.
They were persistent in opposing Jesus.
The sign of Jonah symbolizes deliverance. Did Jesus’ words pierce them like a knife? The Queen of Sheba and those from Nineveh were Gentiles who responded to God, and they did not.
Jesus is more excellent than Solomon and Jonah.
The Sign of Jonah reminds us of our helplessness and despair. Without repentance, our shallow response to the Savior is for men’s eyes only.
When the word reached the King of Nineveh, he arose from the throne, laid aside his robe from him, covered himself with sackcloth, and sat on the ashes. He issued a proclamation, and it said, “In Nineveh by the deer of the king and his nobles: Do not let man, beast, herd, or flock taste a thing. Do not let them eat or drink water. But both men and beast must be covered with sackcloth, and let men call on God earnestly that each may turn from his wicked way and violence which is in his hand. Who knows God may turn and relent and withdraw His burning anger so that we will not perish.
Jonah 3:5-9
True repentance seeks no signs and wonders. It comes from the heart. What would Jesus say to our generation?
Christine Malkemes is a wife, mother, minister, and retired Army Officer. Her passion is to see women find intimacy in their relationship with the Lord. She will tell you the most powerful prayer she ever sent to heaven was “Lord, You must become more and me less!” She is on a journey to the heart of God. Will you join her.
