By the author: "In this middle section of Luke, I saw for the first time how much Jesus holds religious leaders accountable for their leadership and handling of God's Word. It became clear to me that his harshest teachings were not directed at the masses but at those who led them. This follows the strong condemnation of Israel's leaders by the prophets, who were called out for promoting unjust practices and prioritising the acquisition of wealth, power, and status. Being unable to resist this became the downfall of the nation. Israel did not separate into two kingdoms because God wanted it to, but because its leaders were seduced away from the central notion of loving God and loving one's neighbour. Eventually, the Israelites lost everything at the hands of the Assyrians and later on, the Babylonians. 

Nothing the world offers is worth fighting over or losing everything for. It is why Jesus revised his reading of Isaiah's prophecy at the start of his ministry to remove the notion of vengeance. Give up fighting over things that do not last, and avoid going into debt for today’s fashions. Everything turns to dust anyway. The most expensive food and wine, and the cheapest fast food, end up in the same place. Instead, make healthy life choices. Fill your time with things that will prosper you and others, not just financially. Once we recognise how much we are manipulated by leaders to serve their interests, we regain control over our lives. I know that to be a truly liberating thing! 

I have recognised from writing this commentary that the world’s powers will use religion to serve their interests. Religious institutions seek to be wealthy and powerful when they focus on numbers and buildings. Jesus never sought any of this or to bring people closer to institutions. Studying Luke’s account has left me realising how we need to hold our religious leaders accountable for promoting ways that invite us to do this. They can create hierarchical structures and notions of being in relationship with God for their sake, something Jesus never endorsed. Our religious beliefs can also become a source of trouble in the world when we attach notions of absolutism to the teachings we receive from our leaders. I have learned that the only absolute truths Jesus advocated are to love God, love others, forgive, show mercy, and live in peace. 

Knowing how easily my life can be manipulated to serve other people’s thirst for power and authority has led me to be very intentional about the choices I make. I have the power to turn things off and to choose who I listen to. I've also realised the importance of balance, such as my need to listen to those I may not agree with. I also balance the need to earn an income with trusting that God will show me the best way to do this. If I am being led to do this deceptively and unjustly, it is not from God. In everything, I've learned to trust God. Even when I did not know what to write in these pages, I trusted that God would provide the words. The evidence of these books shows that God has provided. This is all about intentional living and not letting anyone take away our freedom of choice. That begins by giving God control over the narratives we live by. The greatest story we can tell ourselves is that we are unconditionally loved by God, and that even when life throws us a curveball, God is always there, ready, with no strings attached." 

Published: September 30, 2025