His bigger purpose

Today we read from Luke 9:51-10:12 in the One Year Bible. And I was surprised at what we read.

I've read through the Bible many times, using the One Year Bible for about eight years straight at one point, but I still find things that I don't remember reading before. The Bible that God has given us is an amazing book, and filled with wonders.

The story today is about the disciples preparing the way for Jesus as He heads toward Jerusalem. And the people in those towns (Samaritan towns) refuse to give Him hospitality. And the reason given is because He's headed to Jerusalem. That's kind of surprising, given that the people in Jerusalem are (initially) going to welcome Him with open arms and waving palm branches when He arrives.

But it's His response to His disciples' desire to "call down fire" on the people who refuse Him hospitality that got my attention. He said not to punish them, because "the Son of Man came to bring life, not death."

And that's a good theme for the Easter season, isn't it? Jesus not only brought life to those whose paths He crossed, but He even brought life out of death itself. He came back to life after defeating sin and death. And He was the FIRST to do so... meaning many more followed after Him. And continue to. And the really great news is that if we play our cards right, even WE can follow that example and live forever.

Jesus came to bring life, not death. Thanks be to God.