(Please read the Scripture passage before reading the homily.)
In so many words, the king said that he would not ask God for a sign even if God were the last God on earth. The king did not believe in God. The king has scoffed at God and offered God no respect.
Isaiah accused the king of being boring or overly needy of other people. Then he asked the king if he wanted to tire God out also with his pettiness. He challenged the king to ask for a sign.
Should we ask for signs or look for signs? Other people in Scripture received signs. Zechariah and Mary in Luke’s first chapter were involved in signs. Zechariah had questioned how an old man like him with a very old wife could possibly have a baby. He was reprimanded for his lack of faith and his sign was that he could not speak. On the other hand, Mary also questioned the angel’s announcement to her. She received an answer to her questions. She was welcomed because of her faith. The message I receive from this short study is that we may ask for signs and further explanations of God’s plans for us, so long as we ask in faith and trust.
We are people who need signs. We constantly ask God what God wants us to do. We must, however, act with the idea that once we have discerned God’s plan, we will set about accomplishing it. We should not find this difficult, usually, because God has given us routines that enable us to go about our daily activities with having to ask God, “What next? Brush my teeth or comb my hair? Should I help with the dishes or not?” These are some of the thousand questions we could ask God every day, but God has given us common sense and routine to help us make decisions. Our homes, workplaces, companions are some of the signs God has given us.
If we use these signs, we shall not become boring to God, ourselves, or other people. Ask for signs, ask for explanations of signs, and be faithful to the God who have made you.