God said to Noah, “This is the sign of the covenant that I have established between me and all flesh that is on the earth.” Genesis 9:17
We no longer fear a repeat of Noah’s Flood. However, we do still fear the final judgment. The rainbow is a sign of God’s covenant. It is not the sign, but it is an important sign. The signs point us toward God’s covenant. A covenant revealed in multiple facets throughout history. Noah’s facet is simply the most recent in our journey through the early chapters of Genesis.
When God gives us a sign of His covenant, it points both to His judgment and His mercy. The is the most basic understanding of Law and Gospel. The most important sign of God’s covenant with all flesh is the cross. In the cross is the fullness of Law and Gospel displayed. God’s judgment came down on Jesus’ sinless life. God’s mercy is poured out on us through the Sacraments. Mysteries powered by the life, death and resurrection of our Lord.
God’s covenant is simple: He seeks to show mercy. Unfortunately, many don’t want His mercy. They believe the cost of His mercy is too high. How foolish they are! His mercy is free. He simply wants you to accept it like Noah accepted God’s mercy in the Flood. Amen.
