It is often said that what we see is what we get. But on the other hand, there is always more than meets the eye.
What we see will give us first impressions and opinions. But when we start to think about it, we will discover deeper meanings and even the mystery behind it.
The 1st reading talked about Daniel seeing visions in the night. That might already give us some ideas of the meaning of those visions might be.
For one, it would not be that clear in its meanings because the night has always been mysterious and things cannot be seen clearly and there is always something hidden.
But what is obvious is the power struggle of the earthly kingdoms and the rise and fall of empires.
But as Daniel gazed into the visions of the night, he saw something more than just earthly.
Coming from the clouds of heaven was one who was conferred sovereignty, glory and kingship, and his empire shall never pass away nor will it be destroyed.
It was like a vision within a vision, something more than meets the eye.
In the gospel, Jesus used the buds of a fig tree to tell us that there is something more than just summer is near.
It is the kingdom of God that is breaking forth and manifesting itself in the midst of the ordinary.
Yes, there is always something more than meets the eye. If we don't see a deeper meaning in it, if we don't see the kingdom of God happening in it, we may just be settling for something less.