"The Signs of the Times"

In Matthew’s Gospel, the Pharisees and Sadducees tested Jesus and asked him for a sign from heaven.  He was sharp with them and told them that they knew how to read natural signs and predict the weather from the sky, but that they didn’t know how to read the signs of the times.

But what does it mean to “read the signs of the times”?  It means that we need to carefully observe and reflect on the social, cultural, political, and economic realities of our society and world.  And it especially means considering what we can do to respond, in particular to the vulnerable and marginalised.

So, what are the signs of the times right now?  One of them was stuck up outside church last week: a flag, a St George’s Cross.  Red cross, white background, the sort you see everywhere.  I gave an instruction for it to be taken down.

When England played in the Euros and in the World Cup, I did feel a bit of pride when I saw these flags up in windows.  These signs of the times struck me as being just a pride in our nation.  But this “sign of the times” has quickly changed and we need to be able to re-read it carefully.  I am sure you have seen on the news each evening, the growing numbers of boat crossings bringing more refugees to our country.

A couple of weeks ago, new legislation meant that two refugees were actually deported to France.  But on the same day, 1,000 more refugees arrived on boats.  I suggest that the signs of the times have changed.  The St George’s flags going up now seem to have a different meaning.  I fear that are they saying, “This is our country.  Keep out.”

As Catholic Christians, we are called to stand up against this racism, xenophobia, hatred and cruelty.  Throughout the Old Testament, the People of God were constantly given instruction to look after “the stranger, the orphan and the widow.”  If we are to put a sign, let it be one saying, “Refugees welcome.”  

God bless, Fr Kevin.