Once again Jesus is challenged and asked to defend Himself, to give proof to substantiate His teachings, His preaching. He gave them signs, and mind you these were gentiles, not even people who shared His religious beliefs.
And we, if asked to give signs that would help others understand who God is for us, what would we say?
Look no further than the Scriptures we heard today; "You have been told, O man, what is good, and what the LORD requires of you. Only to do the right and to love goodness, and to walk humbly with your God." Micah 6:8
But in reply someone could ask, we thought that sacrifice was needed, to sell all you have and come follow. And again, the Scriptures provides us with an answer; "He that offers praise or prayer as a sacrifice glorifies God. He who goes the right way will be led by God, will be shown the salvation of God." Psalm 50:23
Yes, there is something greater here and that is the simplicity of what God asks of us ... walk with Him. How we do it will be answered in multiple ways.
- The Samaritan did it when he picked up the injured man at the side of the road.
- Abraham did it when he noticed three men pass his tent and he invited them in for a meal.
- Martha did it, although reluctantly, extending herself to ensure that Jesus would be provided with a special meal.
- Mary did it, quietly engaging Jesus in prayer and conversation.
They did the right, they did justice, treated others as we would want to be treated.
Jesus gave us a sign. Now we need to give Jesus a sign and that sign is a commitment to walk with him, to have Him at our side, to look to Him when faced with what should we do and ask,” What would He do?”
We heard the prophet Micah today relate a touching exchange with God wondering if he had wearied his people. They had turned on him. It appeared from the exchange that they wanted to make amends for their sin and offer animal sacrifice. God thought otherwise and told them do what is right, love the good and walk humbly with God.
Yes, there is something great here today, a great message and the response we can give if asked, who is God for you and what does He ask from you?
