No. And No.

Today we wrap up our reflections on the sermon preached by Pastor Benji, based on Luke 13:1-5.

"I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish." -Luke 13:3

"I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish." -Luke 13:5

When Jesus says something once, we should pay attention. How much more so when Jesus says something twice?

Some people told Jesus the bad news about the actions of Pilate. In turn, Jesus reminded those people of a disastrous accident in which a building collapsed. And Jesus asked a question about both incidents: when bad things happen to people, is that an indication of their level of sinfulness? And Jesus answered the question Himself, which we see recorded in verses 3 and 5 of Luke 13: No.

We really need to get this point. We live in a world where people tell us that there is a direct cause-and-effect relationship between the things we do and what sort of tangible, physical response we receive from God while we're on earth. In other words, do some nice things and God will give you some nice stuff right now, you'll be happy and nothing bad will happen because you are the blessed of God.

"The Father sends rain on the just and the unjust" (see Matthew 5:45). So, if there is potential for everyone to get caught in a torrential downpour, or a mudslide, or a tsunami, or an earthquake, then what shall we do? What is it that will distinguish us as people of God?

The sermon left us with a few answers, which I'll repeat here as we close this week:

-We are distinguished by our repentant heart. We have apologized to God for our sinfulness, and we have made a decision to turn away from our sin.
-We are distinguished by knowing what our God-given purpose is. As we have spent time in the presence of God, He has shown us what He wants us to do for Him.
-We are distinguished by fulfilling our God-given purpose. We are not like Jonah, who walked away from his assignment, but we are enthusiastically obedient to do as our Lord has instructed us.

Take a look inside your own heart.

Lord willing, we'll meet again in cyberspace next Tuesday. Take care my friends.