Matthew 16:1-4
Find a place and time free of distractions for the next 7-10 minutes. Sit comfortably and breathe deeply for a few seconds before you begin. As you breathe in, say the name of Jesus and become aware of his presence with you. As you breathe out, open your mind and heart to receive whatever Jesus has for you today.
As you read Matthew 16:1-4, keep in mind that the Sadducees and Pharisees were not in agreement on several points of the Jewish law and the Sadducees were generally wealthier and more politically connected to the Roman government than the Pharisees.
One way violence is spawned is when two diverse parties become unified in their dislike of a common foe and the destruction of that foe becomes their primary objective. In this passage, the Pharisees and Sadducees have come together despite their significant philosophical differences to discredit Jesus.
The coldness of their demand for a sign in light of all the healing and restoration that follows Jesus wherever he goes is striking. Jesus’ ministry is disrupting the status quo that keeps these two groups of religious leaders in their positions of power and privilege. It is obvious that the wellbeing of the common people is of little interest to them.
Get quiet for a moment and notice any tension you are carrying in your body. Breathe deeply inhaling the awareness of Jesus’ presence with you and exhaling the tension.
When you feel settled and centered, consider these questions: How have you seen the scenario in this passage played out in our current world? Have you ever found yourself in a similar situation?
Share any thoughts you have about this with Jesus.
Read Matthew 16:1-4 again taking note of Jesus’ reply.
When Gideon was called upon by God to lead Israel out of their oppression, God graciously responded to Gideon’s request for a sign (Judges 6:17), and David pleaded with God for a sign of God’s favor toward him (Psalm 86:17). Many people have as part of their faith journey a moment where they cried out to God and asked for a sign of God’s existence or presence, and these sincere prayers are often answered in one way or another.
But faith wouldn’t be faith if we alway had to have a miraculous sign.
For the last few moments of this meditation, contemplate these words from the writer of the letter to the Hebrews:
“Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see.” – Hebrews 11:1
“And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him.” - Hebrews 11:6
What might Jesus be saying to you through today’s meditation?
What will you do about it?
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