Gospel: John 3: 14-21
The Old Testament is not unlike the tragedy cycles in ancient Greek literature. There is an initial covenant between God and Israel. The people then are not faithful to that covenant. God then sends horrible punishments: floods, famines, exiles, mass killings, and other horrid things. A new covenant is made and the cycle starts all over again. If these stories were intended to instill obedience in people through fear, it has not worked. It has only led to its opposite: aversion to religion and a loss of faith.
The message and example of Jesus was appealing to a world tired of vengeful deities and legal codes that were arbitrary, contradictory, and impossible to keep. Jesus instead extends love and mercy to the world. Love inspires us to great ideals and ambitious deeds. Mercy is there for when we fail and need inspiration to get back up and keep trying. All are invited to partake of the mission; all can attain its high ideals. The burden is easy and light.
Jesus did not come to condemn the world but to save it. What about us who claim to be his disciples? Have we come with saving deeds - deeds of healing and feeding and consoling like Jesus did? Or are we asking for fire to come down upon entire cities? If we have not yet been about saving deeds, today is a day to reflect and commit to some: care for the sick, the hungry, the thirsty, the unclothed, the immigrant and refugee, the imprisoned. Today - each day - is not about condemning but saving.
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