Dear Theophilus: Ready, Set, Go

In Luke 13.1–9, Jesus confronts our habit of explaining tragedy in ways that let us feel safe and superior. Instead of explaining away tragedy he issues a gracious but urgent call to repentance. Through the parable of the fig tree, Jesus warns against misplaced loyalties, violent visions of the kingdom, and fruitless faith—while holding out mercy for those willing to change. This message invites us to choose the way of Jesus: repentance, enemy-love, and lives that bear fruit rather than the sword.