For when you were slaves of sin, you were free from righteousness. But what profit did you get then from the things of which you are now ashamed? For the end of those things is death. But now that you have been freed from sin and have become slaves of God, the benefit that you have leads to sanctification, and its end is eternal life. (Romans 6:20-22)
Jesus said to his disciples: … Do you think that I have come to establish peace on the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. From now on a household of five will be divided, three against two and two against three; (Luke 12:51-52)
Piety
Lord Jesus, may I strive to live within your will. When in conflict with others show me the path of love. When tempted by sin, call me back. When I walk in your ways may your light shine to the world.
Study
In advance of the Holidays, we are excited that family – daughters, cousin, siblings – will be coming to visit. And perhaps even more exciting, they want to spend time with us, catching up on activities and how we are doing at heart. Family can be wearisome but also enriching, grounding, fun. We used the term “family” to refer to groups that are meaningful: Men’s 135th Cursillo family, parish family, alum family, etc. And, of course, Jesus, again and again, spoke of the community as Family, as His Body, as the building Kingdom.
This Gospel, therefore, is disquieting. I don’t want to be in conflict with my family. Even disagreements cause discomfort. There are many clues, however, to help me understand that Jesus tells us just how difficult it is to follow His message of total trust in God, and living a life of love, justice and peace. From the Book of Wisdom: “It was the wicked who with hands and words invited death…And they did not know the hidden counsels of God…” Humans are free to choose and how we choose, the way of the Cross or the way of human idols causes the conflict. Our response: Action. Extend love, justice, peace and stay the course, slaves of righteousness which is grace extended by God’s great generosity.
Action
The saying “You can’t pick your family” is upended by Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection. You can pick the family of God and stand in the doorway, holding the entrance open for others whom God has already invited in but who are struggling with a “yes”.
Look within first, are you divided against yourself, refusing to turn away from some sin which has its hooks in you? What steps can you take? Pray for Jesus’ power and love to draw you closer.
Where is there conflict with others and what hand of love is implicit in your actions?
Illustration: Gospels, Opening of Luke's Gospel, Walters Manuscript W.538, fol. 154r , dated approximately 1193 CE.
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