Gospel: Luke 12:49-53
I find the words of Jesus strange to my ears and heart. Do we not pray frequently the prayer of Saint Francis asking God to make each of us an instrument of peace?
But I think the peace Jesus is speaking of is God’s peace, not some peace that can keep us from God who desires the truth guiding our response and an honest expression that truly comes from the fire burning in our heart. A fire that is kept aflame with God’s Spirit who is guiding us to truth and honesty and to God’s will for us, our family members, and even our planet.
Such a speaking of peace comes from hearts that are free of pleasing others, from a freedom that can stand before God and others and stand for peace reflected in the heart of our loving non-violent God of love and mercy for all.
