Do you think that I have come to establish peace on the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. Luke 12:51
We have all heard that Jesus is the Prince of Peace. We sing about this at Christmas, you know, the peace on earth, good will towards men. So why would Jesus be asking this question and saying that he is establishing division? This is one of those passages that goes against the norm. For centuries the Jews were operating under the status quo. God gave Moses the law and they have been living the strictness of the old testament laws for centuries. Now Jesus has come to shake things up.
When a new leader comes on the scene, you can bet that things are going to change. More often than not, that change can be difficult for some. Even in your own family, change can be difficult. Jesus talks about this in this entire passage. Our children as they grow, are changing, ie the terrible twos, the teenage years, etc. There's often fighting and testing in these years. But we grow and get through them, or we leave.
Jesus came to change things, to bring a new teaching. Not everyone accepted it. Even many of his followers questioned it. Sometimes the truth hurts, and you can take it or leave it. But those that followed blazed a new trail and set the world afire in the Spirit. Pray today to not rush to judgment or dismiss a situation that you don't agree with. Instead pray for the Holy Spirit to guide you and accept things that you may not understand. And always pray for peace in the midst of division so that we all may be one in Christ.
Question for Reflection
Can I truly love God and still love things in my life?
Lord, help to set aside worldly things and give my heart to you!
