Summary: In this biblical passage, Jesus responds to the mention of lives lost as results of a massacre and a random accident by telling a parable about an unfruitful fig tree and imploring people to repent. The parable holds out the hope of grace in the midst of existence’s all-too-vivid precariousness.
I wrote this biblical commentary for those preparing to preach or teach on the passage. Read the commentary at Working Preacher.
How to Survive the Sequester, Syria, and Other Threatening Headlines (Luke 13:1-9)
Summary: In the wake of inexplicable, frightening tragedies, Jesus calls people to repent. Repentance involves a new way of seeing the world, God’s presence in it, and our place in God’s intentions. The news always reminds us our existence is a fragile one, but we nevertheless play a part in God’s program for grace, mercy, and justice.
Read the full article, which is part of the ON Scripture–The Bible project, on The Huffington Post, Day1, and Patheos.
Bible commentary: general audience ON Scripture--The Bible
gospel of luke luke 13:1-9 sequester syria tower of siloam