Scripture for Today: Matthew 16:3 “….You know how to interpret the appearance of the sky, but you cannot interpret the signs of the times.”

Our eldest daughter worked many years with the deaf and hard of hearing as a special education teacher.  Her interest in this field was a natural outgrowth of being on a signing team in high school where she signed to Christian music.  She was so graceful with the beautiful gestures that I often teared up watching her.  This way of communicating can be a true creative art form.

I am fascinated watching a deaf conversation using American Sign Language, spelling out each word.   What is inconceivable to me is that there are different systems of sign language used worldwide rather than just one!  It only makes interpretation that much more difficult.

Our verse for today was spoken by Jesus to the skeptical Pharisees and Sadducees.  They wanted to entrap and test Jesus by asking Him for a sign from Heaven.  Because of their unbelief, Jesus told them that the only sign they would receive would be the “sign of Jonah” or the coming resurrection of Jesus.  That is sign enough.  His resurrection is irrefutable proof that He is God.  It is the ultimate sign.

Belief in this ultimate sign is an essential part of the Gospel that saves us (I Cor. 15:3-4).  When we accept His saving Gospel, our hearts are then opened to all the signs of love He gives us.  It is a sign of love that God reveals signs of the end times in His Word.  He wants us to watch for them and be ready for His return.  Having just a small inkling of what is to come reassures my heart that He is in control.

Keep me watching Lord, for all Your signs.