Today's Gospel with comment: February 17, 2020

February 17
Monday of the VI week of Ordinary Time

From the Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Mark 8,11-13.
At that time, the Pharisees came and began to argue with him, asking him for a sign from heaven, to test him.
But he, drawing a deep sigh, said: "Why does this generation ask for a sign? Truly, I say to you, no sign will be given to this generation. "
And leaving them, he got back on the boat and went to the other side.
Liturgical translation of the Bible

San Padre Pio of Pietrelcina (1887-1968)

«Why does this generation ask for a sign? »: Believe, even in the dark
The Holy Spirit tells us: Do not let your spirit succumb to temptation and sadness, because the joy of the heart is the life of the soul. Sadness is of no use and causes spiritual death.

It sometimes happens that the darkness of trial overwhelms the sky of our soul; but they are really light! In fact, thanks to them, you even believe in darkness; the spirit feels lost, afraid of not seeing again, of not understanding anymore. Yet it is precisely the moment when the Lord speaks and makes himself present to the soul; and she listens, intends and loves in fear of God. To "see" God, do not wait for Tabor (Mt 17,1) when you already contemplate it on Sinai (Ex 24,18).

Go forward in the joy of a sincere and wide open heart. And if it is impossible for you to maintain this joy, at least do not lose courage and keep all your trust in God.