Mk 8:11-13
11The Pharisees came forward and began to argue with [Jesus], seeking from him a sign from heaven to test him. 12He sighed from the depth of his spirit and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Amen, I say to you, no sign will be given to this generation.” 13Then he left them, got into the boat again, and went off to the other shore.
The Pharisees came, seeking from him a sign from heaven: I remember the day when I was ordained 24 years ago. I was asking the Lord for a sign to assure me that this was what he really wanted from me. I was hoping for signs like a flower falling from heaven, a sudden, soft wind blowing in my face that sunny morning, a call from a long lost friend, or some holy manifestation. I marched hesitantly to the altar as the choir began to sing, but there was still no sign from the Lord. Doubts and fears thus played in my heart as the rite of ordination proceeded.
During the Litany of the Saints, while I was lying prostrate and the congregation called on all the saints in heaven to pray for me, I suddenly sort of heard a small whisper within me. “Oh, Rau, all these years I have taken care of you! You went through your studies very well, even though sometimes you did not try hard. Your seminary days were happy. You never encountered a major crisis in your life. Those were my signs for you! Now it is your turn to give me a sign. No matter what happens, you will stick it out with me in the priesthood.”
I will be celebrating my 25th year in the priesthood on March 1, 2011. I will humbly tell the Lord, “I have tried my best to be faithful. I am still sticking it out with you. My life is my sign. My priesthood is your sign. Thank you for your proof!”
Make your life this Valentine’s Day a happy sign for your loved ones!