A Greater Sign Is Already Here
Wednesday of the First Week of Lent
Luke 11:29–32
In today's Gospel, people ask Jesus for a sign—something spectacular, undeniable, dramatic. But instead of dazzling them, Jesus says that no sign will be given except the sign of Jonah.
According to the Book of Jonah, God had explicitly instructed the prophet Jonah to go to Ninevah and warn its inhabitants, with the goal of leading them to repent of their wickedness or face God's judgment. The people listened, believed Jonah, humbled themselves, and changed their lives. No miracles are recorded there—just a warning and an open heart. And that was enough (see Jonah 3:1-10).
Jesus also mentions the Queen of the South, who traveled far to hear the wisdom of Solomon. She made a long, costly journey because she believed that wisdom was worth seeking (see 1 Kings 10:1-13; 2 Chronicles 9:1-12).
Then Jesus says something remarkable: “There is something greater here.”
At first glance, it can sound almost disappointing. Why not give the crowd something extraordinary? Why not prove beyond doubt who Jesus is?
But perhaps that is exactly the point.
The people were looking for something flashy. They wanted to be impressed. Yet standing right in front of them was the greatest sign, Jesus Christ—the Word made flesh, speaking truth, healing hearts, calling people to conversion.
During Lent, this Gospel reading gently but firmly asks us: What are you waiting for? Are you asking God for a sign before you take your faith more seriously? Are you waiting for a dramatic experience before you turn towards God and repent.
The “sign of Jonah” ultimately points to the death and resurrection of Jesus—the great passage from darkness into light. That is the sign given to us. The Cross. The empty tomb. Love poured out.
The people of Nineveh heard a brief warning and changed their lives. The Queen of the South traveled miles for wisdom. You have the Gospel in your hands, the sacraments, and Christ present in your midst. How will you respond?
Practically, this might mean choosing prayer over distraction; turning away from a habitual sin instead of excusing or minimizing it; reconciling with someone instead of holding onto resentment; and making space each day to truly listen and respond to God’s Word with love, faith, and hope.
We do not need more signs. We need open and contrite hearts.
Lent is about allowing God to transform us. Lent is our journey to rediscover that God's greatest sign has already been given to us through Jesus— who is still alive, still speaking, and still calling us to abundant life.
You are invited to reflect today about whether you are waiting for a sign from God instead of responding to what you already know? What small change is God inviting you to make today?
Lord Jesus,
You are the greatest sign of God’s love for us.
Forgive me for the times I have looked for something more
while ignoring your presence in my life.
Give me a humble heart like the people of Nineveh,
and a sincere desire for wisdom like the Queen of the South.
Help me to recognize you, to listen to you,
to trust you, and to follow you more faithfully.
Amen.