As the time drew near for him to ascend to heaven, Jesus resolutely set out for Jerusalem. He sent messengers ahead to a Samaritan village to prepare for his arrival.

But the people of the village did not welcome Jesus because he was on his way to Jerusalem. When James and John saw this, they said to Jesus, “Lord, should we call down fire from heaven to burn them up?” But Jesus turned and rebuked them. 

Luke 9:51-55

James and John aren’t the only ones who are quick to judge. We, too, love to point out the faults of others and point fingers at those around us. We claim to be followers of Jesus, but grace is often the farthest thing from our hearts when we have been rejected. Calling down fire from heaven feels more justifiable than calling down grace, or offering grace of our own. And retaliation would surely satisfy and affirm our egos far more than compassion and forgiveness ever could. 

When WE fail, we expect grace. When we fall short, we certainly don’t anticipate that others will call for flames. So why do we? Why do we love God’s grace when it’s poured out on us, but are so quick to choose fire and destruction for others? Perhaps James and John just wanted to demonstrate God’s power, but sacrificing lives? Jesus wasn’t happy about that. He came to love, not to punish. He came to save, not to destroy.                                                                                                                                      

You may want others held to the fire for their offenses, while you stay nice and cool passing judgment and condemning them for their behavior. But don’t forget that you love and serve a compassionate and patient God who wants the best for ALL of His children. Rather than focusing on the inadequacy of others, focus on the sufficiency of your God! He reveals His heart when you offer others the same grace He has given to you. So love big, extend grace, and show others the compassionate heart of their Savior—no fire extinguisher necessary. You are loved!