Scripture for Today: John 12:37 “Even after Jesus had performed so many signs in their presence, they still would not believe in him.”

This cute little guy pops up all over the mountains, delighting hikers. He is the Alpine marmot and is part of the squirrel family. He lives in underground burrows, is a vegetarian and hibernates most of the winter. In North America, we know him better as the groundhog. Just yesterday, the most famous groundhog, Punxsutawney Phil, predicted six more weeks of winter by seeing his shadow. Had he not seen it, legend says that spring would come early. For some it is a sign but perhaps most people would not believe it.

In today’s verse, Jesus is performing true signs with His miraculous power. These signs fulfilled what was said of Him in prophecy, that He would give sight to the blind, cause the lame to walk, cleanse the leper, cause the deaf to hear, raise the dead and proclaim good news to the poor. (Isaiah 35:5-6 & Matt. 11:5) These signs were to prove His identity as the Son of God. And even though there was proof before their eyes, many would still not believe.

So, for some seeing is NOT believing. But God graciously continues to reveal Himself through what He has miraculously created. (Romans 1:20) And He continues to reveal Himself to me through His Word. I also see evidence of His love for me daily and I am humbled. Everything that is good in my life comes from His hand. (James 1:17) But the biggest sign He gives me is the unseen reassurance in my heart that I belong to Him and He belongs to me! That close growing relationship with Him continues to strengthen and with it my faith.

Thank you Lord, for giving me every sign I need to believe in You.

(Merci, Jean-Luc Zaepfel, pour l’image!)