So much death and suffering in the world today (and throughout history) is caused by human sin, and we are all guilty. Yet Jesus makes it very clear that there is no automatic link between sin and suffering. In Luke 13 we see Jesus pointing out that, ‘…they were not suffering because they were worse sinners than all the other Galileans’. (vv.1-2). Jesus also points out that natural disasters are not necessarily a form of punishment from God (vv.1–5).
While it may be more than appropriate for us to examine our own hearts when we are suffering, we need to be very careful about making judgments about why others are suffering. Jesus was not so interested in philosophical explanations for suffering. Rather, he was interested in our response. He warns of the dangers: ‘unless you repent…’ (v.3).
God is patient, giving as much time as possible for people to repent and turn to him. However, as I mentioned in my commentary yesterday, over the past two weeks, 3 people I knew passed from this life to the next. None of us are guaranteed tomorrow.
Examine your heart today. Repent and turn to God…
Living Life by Design 
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