Readings:

Ephesians 3: 14-21
Luke 12: 49-53

Reflection:

Since 1948, United Nations Day is observed on 24 October every year to mark the anniversary of the UN Charter. This international organization remains the one place on Earth where all the world’s nations can gather together, discuss common problems, and find shared solutions that benefit all of humanity. The main objectives of the United Nations are the maintenance of international peace and security, the promotion of the well-being of the peoples of the world, and international cooperation to these ends.

Jesus’ mission was to proclaim a new vision for humankind about the kingdom of God. His vision expressed messages of hope, faith and love and his teachings and actions have provoked and challenged his followers within and beyond his time.

In today’s Gospel Jesus shocked his disciples when he declared that he would cast fire and cause division rather than peace upon the earth. Peace is the ultimate end of the Kingdom of God, but peace has a price. Jesus is warning the crowd that wherever the Word of God is heard and acted upon, division occurs. Fathers will be divided against sons and mothers against daughters.  

The essence of Christianity is loyalty to Jesus Christ, a loyalty that takes precedence over every other relationship. The love of God compels us to choose who will be first in our lives.  Jesus challenges his disciples to examine who they love first and foremost.  A true disciple loves God above all else and is willing to forsake all for Jesus Christ.  Jesus insists that his disciples give him the loyalty which is only due to God, a loyalty which is higher than spouse or kin. 

We don’t expect to hear such difficult words from Jesus in the Gospel. But it is good to be reminded that a decision to do the right thing is not always easy and without conflict. Jesus himself did not make easy decisions and avoid conflict. In today’s reading he reminds his followers to be prepared for difficult decisions and conflict as well.

Joanne McGrath is a parishioner of St Brigid’s Marrickville and a Passionist Companion.

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