Happy Third Sunday of Advent,
Read Luke 13
In this chapter Jesus deals with questions about theodicy (why do bad things happen to good people?), continues doing good on the Sabbath, gives up a couple parables, calls Herod a fox, and laments over Jerusalem.
As I reflect on these passages with an Advent lens in mind, I am struck by Jesus’ lament over Jerusalem (13.34-35). “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! See, your house is left to you. And I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, ‘Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.’”
Elsewhere in the gospel, Jesus has made it clear that our openness to receiving him impacts the ministry and presence he can have in a place. We see that again here, “you were not willing…you will not see me.” It makes me ponder how willing I am, we are, to God showing up in our lives. How many times have we missed God coming among us, answering a prayer, comforting us, because we have been unwilling and blinded?
What are some ways you can make sure you are willing to receive Jesus as he comes again this Christmas season?
Grace and peace,
Matt
P.S. This passage always makes me think of an Andrew Peterson song from his Christmas “cantata” Behold the Lamb of God, called Deliver Us. Take a listen to the song. Who am I kidding, take a listen to the whole album…I’ll link it here: