While the people cynically questioned God’s justice and longed for his intervention, in Malachi 2:17-3:5, God told them he would be coming in judgment after his messenger prepared the way. In the New Testament, we learn who that messenger was and what God did when he showed up, which was a shock to all.
The parable of the workers in the vineyard reminds us that entering the kingdom of God is not about our work but God’s generosity.
Having defended himself from the devil’s temptations, Jesus went on the offensive as the one anointed to deliver people from sin and oppression.
In encounters with a powerful man and a destitute woman, Jesus showed the authority of his word over sickness and death.
