On this Second Sunday of Lent, we reflect on Jesus' response to the hostility of those who would seek to end his ministry of the Good News of God's grace. We read from Luke's Gospel account again this week, but we have gone from the temptations of Chapter 4 to the increasing tensions of discipleship in Chapter 13. The Gospel lesson challenges us to consider that not everyone seeks to do God's will, and we will reflect on those aspects of life that are not only life-draining, but can lead to destructive ends, not just for individuals but for our communities and beyond.
Our Scripture passage is found in the Gospel according to Luke. You may find the Scripture lesson by selecting the following link: (Luke 13:31-35).
For continuing study, reflect on these questions (found in the study guide below):
Before reading the Scripture lesson assigned for this week, reflect on some important information that provides context for this lesson: Jesus' disciples are being prepared for what will happen in Jerusalem during Holy Week, and the tension between Jesus and the religious authorities is rising as Jesus continues his ministry of spreading God's saving grace, which is counter to what the authorities can control. Read the assigned Scripture lesson from the Gospel according to Luke: are there any words or phrases that you notice or have special meaning to you?
In the Ancient World, the fox was known to be an animal with intelligence and craftiness, but also one that was known for its malicious destructiveness - why do you believe Jesus uses the metaphor of "fox" to refer to Herod?
Read the "WHAT..." paragraph in the guide below, and reflect on the author's first two sentences (and modify them for your own reflection): "[We] cannot remain passive as [we] await God's salvation. Jesus' words challenge [us] to recognize the divine origin of his mission and message." What do these sentences mean for you and for the community of faith in which you live?
Read the "WHERE..." paragraph below and reflect on the parts of Jesus' message that would be considered a "lament." Why is Jesus lamenting the people's reaction toward him and other prophets of God, and what part does Jerusalem have to play in these experiences?
Read the "SO WHAT..." paragraph below and reflect on the following: what part of Jesus' message might be threatening to the religious authorities and their positions of power? And what message of hope might Jesus be offering these same religious authorities?
Read the "NOW WHAT..." paragraph below and reflect on the author's last sentence; reflect on the idea of a person finding hope in their ability to transcend their current reality, and how can they find strength in the eternal presence of God?
