Luke 13:1-9 The Plank in Our Own Eyes

5. I tell you, no; but unless you repent, you will all likewise perish.

9. And if it bears fruit, well. But if not, after that you can cut it down.

◇ There are some pastors who preach that tragedies are due to the sins of the victims. This is not preaching, but rather meaningless wordplay. When I see those who respond "Amen" to such sermons, the only thing that comes to mind is the saying "birds of a feather flock together."

In that preaching and response, there is an arrogance and pride that says, "We are different from them! We are not sinners, so we are living in comfort and prosperity! We are different from them!" This is no different from the self-righteous Pharisees and scribes.

We are all the same. As Jesus said, those people are not more sinful than we are. We are all sinners who need to repent. We are all those who do not realize the plank in our own eyes.

♧ Merciful God, have compassion on us. Save us. Make me aware of the plank in my own eye and humble me. Holy Spirit, make me strong and courageous. Amen.