This whole Gospel reading is a call back to a series of events in the lives of the Prophets Elijah and Elisha. But the way the events play out are different in important ways from the way the account unfolds in the second Book of Kings.

Pay attention to the reactive response of James and John in the first half of this week’s Gospel reading, who God expect to call down fire upon those who reject Jesus. This moment uncovers our own inclinations to judge and condemn. Jesus’ rebuke serves as a reminder that His mission is not vengeance, but reconciliation. 

Jesus chooses not to retaliate against the Samaritans but instead leads His disciples to another village. His redirection is a profound act of grace that contrasts human inclination towards retribution. In this rejection, Jesus embodies the ultimate refusal to be bound by ethnic or cultural biases, and his actions invite us to also love beyond the boundaries our own hearts try to place on God’s love.

You can view the sermon video directly using this link.