In the comic book and in the movies, when BATMAN, the city crime fighter is needed, a spotlight image of a bat is sent into the night sky. Batman would respond. “One if by land, two if by sea” was the lantern signal that was to come from North Chapel in Boston to inform Paul Revere as he warned the patriots in Concord of the approaching British troops in 1775.

In our Matthew text we find Jesus first announcing the Kingdom of God only after he has heard that John the Baptist had been arrested. This gloomy, alarming event indicated the time was right to proclaim the work of God even in the darkness of fear, injustice, and spiritual captivity to the forces of violence and brutal power. The signal had been sent! Now is the time! Both Jesus and Paul take the next step of forming a community of brothers and sisters to strengthen one another to help point to the Kingdom of God and its transforming impact on both individuals and society. The “signal” had been seen and heard and the communal response followed soon after.

In most any life, whether individual, family, community, nation, times will appear (some threatening, some joyful) that signal the work of God in our midst. For some, it is simply changes in circumstances, behaviors, or thoughts. For others, it may be the dramatic moments brought on by crisis such as illness, death, or grave danger. These moments are “signals” to pay attention for God is very near and very intent on saving us from “all alarm or harm!” Faith is required for we are never strong enough to meet challenges with our own strength.

The journey of faith is not easy and safe but it is always momentous and engages us at the very center of our being! Just ask John the Baptist, Jesus, and Paul and the wildly diverse individuals and groups that have followed in the Way that leads to life abundant (John 10:10).

Look for the “signals” in your life, in our life together!

See you soon, see you Sunday!

Blessings †

Pastor Barry