The Sign of Prophet Jonah

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Ordinary Season:  Sixteenth Week :  Monday*

*Gospel : Mt 12:38-42*

*First Reading : Ex 14:5-18*

*Responsorial Psalm : Exodus 15:8-9, 10 and 12, 17*

*The Sign of Prophet Jonah*

*1) The Sign of Jonah*

The Sign of Jonah refers to

Jonah’s miraculous deliverance after three days and nights in the belly of the fish.

Jesus’ resurrection after being in the tomb three days.

So, the sign is the resurrection—a divine confirmation of Jesus’ identity, just as Jonah’s survival confirmed his mission to Nineveh.

*2) The Significance*

*A) Proof of Jesus' Divine Authority*

Just as Jonah’s survival validated his message to Nineveh, Jesus' resurrection affirms His divine identity and authority. 

It is the ultimate sign to a skeptical world that He is the promised Messiah.

*B) A Call to Repentance*

Jonah’s message to Nineveh was simple: *“Repent, or perish.”*

Nineveh responded with fasting, sackcloth, and genuine repentance.

The implication: Jesus’ generation had an even greater prophet—and yet many refused to repent.

*C)  A Warning Against Seeking Sensational Signs*

The Pharisees demanded miracles to believe. Jesus criticizes this attitude.

True faith doesn't depend on signs; it responds to the Word of God.

*3) The Power of Repentance*

Nineveh’s response was sincere and immediate. They didn’t see a miracle—they simply believed the word.

This contrasts sharply with those in Jesus’ time who saw miracles but refused to believe.

*4) Jesus is Greater than Jonah*

Jonah fled from his mission; Jesus embraced the cross.

Jonah preached to enemies; Jesus died for them.

Jonah’s message saved a city; Jesus' message saves the world.

*5) Application for Today*

*Believe in the Resurrection* : It is the central sign that Jesus is who He claimed to be.

*Repentance is Urgent* : We are called to respond like the people of Nineveh—not delay or harden our hearts.

*Do Not Demand Signs* : Faith comes by hearing the Word, not by seeing wonders (Romans 10:17).

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*