The lectionary passage from Luke 13:1-9 is rather opaque, at least at the beginning. After some cursory research, there are no historical records that mention the specific instances to which Jesus refers. However, rather than the specifics of the events, what seems of interest to Jesus is the rationale behind the tragedies that are mentioned. In both the deaths of the Galileans and those crushed by the tower of Siloam, Jesus questions whether they were being punished for their sinfulness. Reading between the lines, it appears that there was a perception that somehow THEY received just rewards for their faithlessness. Jesus counters this assessment by warning the crowd around him that they, too, must repent. Doesn’t this illustrate the truth we all live: it is easier to see the failings in others than in ourselves?
I can remember a number of instances, as I was complaining about the behavior of others, my daughters would remind me of a theme in a previous sermon that was germane to the situation. Rarely (meaning never) was the identification that I was living up to the call of the gospel that I had proclaimed. Busted! It is much easier to see the faults in others than in ourselves. In humility, I had to receive their loving admonishment to practice what I preached. (Who knew they were listening?!?)
This theme about self-examination is echoed in the passage from 1 Corinthians 10:1-13. Paul reminds the church that everyone in the Exodus community experienced the power, presence and provision of God. However, he also notes that many did not remain faithful, despite their experience of a liberating and sustaining God. He then warns them of falling into the same behavior – experiencing grace, but spurning the call to faithfulness. Spiritual arrogance or lack of self-awareness is a dangerous place to be. As Paul warns, “If you think you are standing, watch out that you do not fall” [I Cor. 10:12].
Endemic to our human nature is the ability to look past our own areas of growth and notice where others are stumbling. While I might be farther along than someone else in one area of discipleship, it doesn’t mean that I am a better disciple. The truth is that there are other areas of my walk with Christ in which growth and maturity is needed. Rather than claiming superiority by comparison, I need to assess my own walk of faith. Ultimately, our goal isn’t to be better than someone else, but to be conformed into the image of Christ.
There is a place in my own life of faith that I have found my self-assessment lacking – my journey into cultural humility and antiracism. In taking IDI (Intercultural Development Inventory), I was made aware of the divergence between how I perceived myself and how I actually practiced in relationship to other cultures. This discrepancy wasn’t not done in a spirit of condemnation, but invitation to live into my aspirations.
While this exercise certainly does relate to race, it is much broader than that. We all have cultural biases. We compare urban, suburban and rural ethos as if there is an objective standard that makes one better than another. We experience different worship styles and practices and might be quick to judge which is better or more faithful. Really? Is there a preset formula that pleases God more than other methods? The IDI has helped me to open my spirit to receive differences not in a spirit of judgement, but of curiosity and receptivity. I certainly have farther to go, but I am thankful for the journey.
In both the Gospel and Epistle lessons, we are not left without hope. While both passages offer the challenge of authentic self-assessment, they also remind us of God’s grace. In Luke, the unproductive fig tree is given not only time, but special attention so that it might be fruitful. In 1 Corinthians 10, Paul shares the promise that God is faithful and will grant us a pathway out of our testing. Ultimately, our confession and repentance isn’t for the sake of guilt, but to lead us into life.
If you would like to view past editions of Moments with Mike, follow this link: https://corridordistrictnc.org/category/from-the-ds/