The answer is: Jonah

Matt 12:38-39 - Referring to the three days and nights that Jonah has spent in the belly of the great fish

In Matthew 12:38-39, the Scribes and Pharisees were seeking miracles to validate Jesus’ authority, but He referred to Jonah, drawing a fascinating parallel. Jonah’s narrative, found in the Old Testament, is remarkable not only for the wild encounter with a giant fish but beyond that, it's a tale about transformation and grace.

When Jonah was swallowed by the fish, he spent three days and three nights in this dark embrace, akin to Jesus’ burial after His crucifixion. This imagery of rebirth and resurrection resonates deeply throughout biblical theology. Jessus used modest Jonah— an unwilling prophet, often overlooked—to deliver a profound point about His authority and the “greater sign” He embodied. It’s intriguing to realize that calling upon Jonah also highlights how even those considered the least among us can convey powerful messages.

Plus, Jonah is renowned for his reluctant outreach to the city of Nineveh, a place viewed as foreign and wicked. Here’s a takeaway: if Jonah's transformation allowed him to become a beacon of hope, it suggests everyone can find their own path to purpose, no matter their background.

And there’s a unique symmetry too—Jonah's story wasn't so much about epic signs but rather deep themes of mercy and redemption. So next time you think of Jonah, remember it’s about guidance towards reflection and understanding rather than just flash and flair!