Ephesians 3:14-21
Luke 12:49-53
There is a strong desire of Jesus to bring down fire upon the face of the earth in today’s .God is a consuming fire that no man can ignite and no one can destroy. He is the wisdom that turns our life around when we are going the wrong path just as He led Israel by the pillar of fire at night and the pillar of cloud by day. Fire also symbolizes the presence and power of the Holy Spirit which came as ‘tongues of fire’ on Pentecost day.
Therefore, the fire of Christ referenced in the gospel, would upset a lot of established and systemic ills and injustices. It is like the proverbial saying that he who wants peace must prepare for war. Hence, as He says, rather than peace, standing for Him would bring divisions between those who love peace and those who oppose peace. Standing for Christ would bring disagreements amongst peoples even of the closest kin like family. This means that even the most sacred earthly ties are less important than loyalty to Christ. No matter how important our families are, they must not become an obstacle to us in following Christ.
If the price to pay is to give up what is as precious and important to us including our lives, we must not hesitate. What price are you willing to pay for the sake of Christ? In order to make the fire of God’s love to burn brightly in our lives we must follow the truth that Christ has brings to us. Accepting the truth of the gospel has led to many divisions among families and friends yet we must realize the cost of discipleship . One cannot bury the truth because it is like a seed that sprouts out its shoots after been buried.
If it be so Lord! Turn my unsanctified nature to the fire of thy love and let it feel the sacred glow, and let my burnt side cool a little while I learn my own weakness and want of heat when I am removed from thy heavenly flame. Let me not be found a double-minded man, but one entirely under the powerful influence of reigning grace; for well I know if I am left like a cake unturned, and am not on both sides the subject of thy grace, I must be consumed forever amid everlasting burnings.
Are we willing to risk our human life for living the Gospel and the values the Gospel teaches us? The Lord says “Do not be afraid of those who those who can kill the body, but after that can do no more.”Luke 12:1-7. Hang on O Lover of Christ! Finish the race so that you may merit the crown of glory that awaits us.
Fr Joseph Osho
