In those days, they told Jesus that Pilate had killed several people from Galilee while they were offering sacrifices in the temple.

“Do you think that these Galileans were worse sinners than all the other people from Galilee?” Jesus asked. “Did they suffer because of that? Not at all. And you too will perish unless you repent of your sins and turn back to God.”

The news had shocked the region. The Governor had killed people who were seeking reconciliation with God. Everyone wondered: Where was the Creator who did not protect them?

And the only answer that occurred to them was to think that they were too sinful, and that’s why they did not receive the protection of the Most High.

This explanation reinforced the belief that persists to this day, that God does not accept those who are too sinful, and if I am less sinful than them, I should feel good because I have my ticket to heaven assured.

Jesus debunked this way of thinking. There are no greater sinners or lesser sinners. We all must repent and ask for forgiveness from God every day before entering His presence. The gates of heaven are open to everyone. The Lord shows no partiality.