Vamshi Eedara csc –
Readings: Eph 3:14- 21; Lk 12:49-53
Today’s gospel reading reminds us of two things: fire and division. Jesus is passionate about his mission here on earth. He knew from the very start that he would die doing his mission, but it did not stop him. He knew that when he spread the news of the kingdom of God, there will be division among the people. Even so, his willingness to save humanity is like a raging fire.
In the gospel fire means the fire of Justice and final judgment that will come upon us. Like Jesus who is waiting for the final accomplishment of his mission which is crucifixion and death, each one of us will die but the real judgement is yet to come. It also reminds us of a call to conversion. This is a call for the people to think about the final judgment. We have to keep our fire burning even with the different beliefs we have.
What is most important is that Jesus speaks about a baptism here: a baptism of conversion of heart, changing our human and evil tendencies and putting on the robes of repentance and forgiveness. Running away or ignoring a difficult situation is not the solution but facing it with the strength of the Holy Spirit we can overcome our difficulties in our daily life. We have a God who understands our limitations. Division and conflicts are not the end, but a repentant heart accepts the limitations and goes beyond them. Let us look into our own personal life and see where we have missed the connection with God and try to change our way of life so that again we can build relationship with God through our personal prayer and become good disciples of Jesus.