The Sunday gospel (Luke 12:48-53) continues its emphatic message and leaves little to the imagination of a soft and easy landing. To the question whether Jesus came to bring peace most of us would unhesitatingly reply ‘Yes’. But Jesus’ “No, I tell you” is emphatic (ouchi). Why would Jesus proclaim He has come to create division?  “Divisiveness erodes the social, political, emotional and psychological bonds that bind us, one to another. Divisiveness is spawned by antagonism, distrust, hostility and often erupts into war. Divisiveness eats away at the viable network of human society, leaving lonely, disconnected isolates in its wake. Why then would Jesus choose to characterize his purpose and mission in terms of fire and division? Was he frustrated by his disciples’ obtuseness? Had he become impatient with Jewish rejection and resentful of Roman oppression? Had he decided that his message of gentle caring and merciful forgiveness needed “teeth”? Or, was he simply being frank, honest, and realistic as regards the very serious crisis confronting humankind by virtue of his person and mission?” [Patricia Sanchez]

Divisive is often the effect of prophetic speech.  In this Jesus fulfills the prophecy of Simeon (Luke 2:35). But one must note that the division is really caused – not by the prophetic speech – but by the decisions one makes because of that speech. This has already been seen when people are called to decide if Jesus is of God or of Satan (Luke 11:14-20). Those who see Jesus must decide rightly lest “the light in you not become darkness” (11:35).

The cross challenges people. Jesus calls on his followers to take up their own cross as they follow him (9:23ff.; 14:27). When people do not rise to this challenge it is not unusual for them to become critical of those who do. Jesus’ words are quite literal and were the experience of the early church (and in differing ways, the experience of the church is all ages). Verses 52-53 strongly echo the words of the OT: “For the son dishonors his father, the daughter rises up against her mother, the daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law, and a man’s enemies are those of his household. But as for me, I will look to the LORD, I will put my trust in God my savior; my God will hear me!” (Micah 7:6-7).