When I encounter signs on the way, I make a few assumptions about them. A sign points me in the direction I am to go to reach my destination. A sign has vested authority to tell me where to go because it was designed by someone who knows the way and I must trust it. Signs are all along the way, but I must pay attention not to miss any of them lest I get lost. Once I am lost, I have to be willing to trace back my steps to find the signs that will get me back on track.
The scribes and Pharisees were demanding a sign because of unbelief; they were evil and adulterous - spiritually unfaithful. They were lost along the way because they missed the signs that were given to them by our good God. Jesus refuses to give them a new sign and points them to an old sign on the road; the sign of Jonah. And he prophesies about his death and resurrection as the ultimate fulfillment of that sign.
Jesus reminds me of the dangers of not following the signs. Not only will I be lost, but at the end of times, I will not reach my intended destination. The judgment will be based upon the road taken; faithfulness in following the signs to the proper destination. The men of Nineveh made a U-turn when they found they were lost. And the Queen of Sheba put the "pedal to the medal" and put in some mileage to get on track. Jesus is the way; he is greater than the temple; he is greater than the prophets; he is greater than earthly kings. I must pay attention to the signs!
Lord, I want to pay attention to all the signs along the way to heaven. Help me be alert and obedient and protect me from distractions and exits that may get me lost.
