My Generation

Luke 11:29-36
by Brian Knitter

It must have been very uncomfortable sometimes to be a Jew (especially a Pharisee)
in Jesus’ presence. Parables and discourses always seemed to be aimed at them. And why
not! As Jesus pointed out in this passage, the Jews were not responding to His message,
and this was His target audience! They needed scolding.

Can you imagine being Jewish, and being told that you will be judged by the likes of
the Ninevites and the Queen of Shebah… both Gentiles (remember to “spit” when you say
Gentile — the Jews always did). . . because you didn’t measure up? Many in the crowd
would be insulted. Maybe a few would repent.

The main message of Jesus in this passage was that Jonah and Solomon had
become messengers of God, and their audiences recognized God in their message. Jonah
and Solomon shined. Their audiences changed; yet this generation, who has the very
presence of God in their midst in the form of Jesus, refused to change. This generation was
destined for “warmer climates” when they died, and Jesus was a little upset at their total
lack of progress and understanding. Their duty to “religion” had blinded them to God
Himself! There was no light in them — only darkness.

Well, we are still “that generation” today. Though Jesus is not here in physical
form, He is still here in spirit, and we are still called to shine His light in us so that the world
may know Him and His saving grace. Will our audience respond like the Ninevites, or the
Jews? Who knows. The important thing is that we become a walking advertisement for
Jesus so we can spread His Good News. Let’s not hide in the shadows.