When the crowds were increasing, [Jesus] began to say, “This generation is an evil generation; it asks for a sign, but no sign will be given to it except the sign of Jonah.” – Luke 11:29 (NRSVUE)

Taylor Swift’s song, “Exile,” a duet sung with Bon Iver’s Justin Vernon, tells the story of a couple living through the end of a relationship. (You’ll find it on her album, Folklore.) In a particularly poignant contrast, one partner sings, “’Cause you never gave a warning sign,” while the other responds wistfully, “I gave so many signs.”

In Luke’s Gospel, Jesus reminds his listeners of the many signs God has given to God’s people, signs of God’s desires and hopes for humankind. He speaks to a particular generation, but also to all generations, communities, and individuals that have strayed from their relationship with God. He goes on to cite other moments in our faith history, frustrated because others have received the signs, but the people in front of him do not recognize that he is the sign, a sign beyond all other signs.

I spend a lot of time wishing God would speak more directly to our generation. A casual glance at the news points to wide and deep examples of evil in our time. Why can’t people who profess to follow Jesus all get on the same page? What is the message some of us are missing or messing up? (And how do we know if it’s us or others who are on the wrong wavelength?)

In this moment from so long ago, Jesus sings to us, sadly, “God gave so many signs.” As in any relationship, our connection to God requires two-way communication. God speaks. Are we paying attention?

Prayer
Holy One, in this Advent season, may we recognize your many signs. Amen.

About the Author
Martha Spong is a UCC pastor, a clergy coach, and editor of The Words of Her Mouth: Psalms for the Struggle, from The Pilgrim Press.