(One Year Bible Blog post & readings)

Our Gospel today has these odd words of Jesus:

“I have come to bring fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled! But I have a baptism to undergo, and how distressed I am until it is completed! Do you think I came to bring peace on earth? No, I tell you, but division. From now on there will be five in one family divided against each other, three against two and two against three. They will be divided, father against son and son against father, mother against daughter and daughter against mother, mother-in-law against daughter-in-law and daughter-in-law against mother-in-law.”

Why does the Prince of Peace, who prayed for unity within his family, say he has come to bring division? I know the common evangelical answer, but I think that might be a bit off target. Though there is a crowd present, Jesus seems to be addressing the disciples. Furthermore, these words come on the heels of (1) and exhortation not to worry; and (2) and exhortation to be prepared like a Boy Scout.

Now I could be wrong. It seems Peter wasn’t sure either. (This uncertainty is a step forward, I think, for Peter who all too often is certain but misguided.) I’ll have to continue chewing on this one.

God’s best to you as we enter Holy Week. May the pain of your cross, be buried in the darkness of the tomb and redeemed by the glory of Easter Dawn.

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