A reading from the gospel according to Mark 8:11-13:

11 The Pharisees came forward and began to argue with Jesus, seeking from him a sign from heaven to test him.
12 He sighed from the depth of his spirit and said, “Why does this generation seek a sign? Amen, I say to you, no sign will be given to this generation.”
13 Then he left them, got into the boat again, and went off to the other shore.

Reflection: The sign

The Pharisees were known critics of Jesus. They did nothing but look for small lapses in His life in the hope that they will find something to discredit Him. They argue a lot that resulted to nothing but only to show their arrogance and contempt. In the gospel passage above, they are looking for a sign from heaven. Jesus sighed from the depth of His spirit to show His frustration and left them.

What Jesus need is faith in Him and in the Father who sent Him. He does not do miracle for a show and certainly He is not looking for admiration or applause. He does not even need to prove Himself. His authoritative teachings and His miraculous healings and exorcisms are proof in themselves. If you don’t believe in Him, no amount of signs will suffice. If you believe in Him, no amount of proof is needed.

Jesus has shown the futility of arguments or debates. His followers should heed His example. It is best to just leave people who argue a lot. There is nothing to be gained from it. What is needed is to do good at all times.
God does give signs to His faithful children even if we don’t ask for them. God reveals Himself in more ways than one. Let us pray that the Holy Spirit will help us see, understand and appreciate these heavenly signs and wonders.