I. Introduction

Many of you may have had or still have the opportunity this summer to spend some time in a tranquil setting - whether reading, appreciating nature, observing birds and butterflies, or simply enjoying the serenity of a river or the rhythmic sound of ocean waves. A peaceful and joyful environment is so good for our minds, bodies and souls, especially in our homes, where we spend so much time together, and other places where we meet and interact with others. However, it is important to recognize that such ideal environments and moments are not always our experience. Sometimes we have misunderstandings at home, at work and at church, and the world is not always a peaceful environment. Misunderstandings can lead to arguments, bad and unhappy feelings, and some misunderstandings and strong opinions can lead to divisions that are hard to overcome. This is where we meet Jesus as He is talking to His disciples and the crowd about the signs of the time, fire and divisions, and how His coming has been received by different people.

II. I do not bring Peace, but Division, Jesus tells the Crowd

Jesus' opening statement in Luke 12 verse 49 is quite shocking at first glance. He appears harsh when He speaks of bringing fire and division to earth, especially when elsewhere in the Bible we hear about the One who will come and bring peace and break down divisions. In Isaiah 9 v 6 He is referred to as the Prince of Peace. Here in Luke, He discusses the destructive nature of judgment day, and then He addresses what will happen in the family. Everyone will be divided against each other, meaning there will be misunderstandings, conflicts, differences of opinions, arguments, all that will lead to divisions in the family. When He talks about bringing fire on earth, however, He does not mean that He is creating the fire, but how His presence, calling, and ministry, had been perceived and led to "fires" and divisions among those who heard Him speak and saw Him do miracles and heal the sick. There are those whose lives have been transformed by Him; and those who are lighting the fires, working against Him, and planning to bring an end to His life on the cross. He states that his message of peace, love, and compassion may result in disagreements within households, as not everyone will have the same perspective, which could cause discomfort and lead to arguments. Jesus then criticizes the crowd for their excellent skill in interpreting weather patterns, yet points out their inability to discern the significance of the present time - specifically, how His presence and message have led to division, anger, and hostility, and they don't do anything to change what is happening. Unless they repent, they will all perish, he continues in the next passage.

III. Conclusion

It is true that today there are challenges and differences within many families that have resulted in some members becoming estranged from one another. This happens also in our communities, broader society, and it can also happen at church. Currently, our world faces considerable challenges marked by divisions, misunderstandings, and difficulties in resolving conflicts constructively. There is hope, though, when we read Hebrews Chapter 11 and 12 about the challenges the Old Testament leaders and ordinary folks faced, and how they continued to believe in God and God's interventions even when things were difficult. They remained faithful to God during many obstacles and persecutions. They believed and followed God's will for them. In Chapter 12 v 1 and 2, the author reminds the readers to look to this great cloud of witnesses, those who have gone before, but are still examples of faith and endurance, of staying together and looking to Christ, the perfecter of their faith, and the ultimate example of love and acceptance and togetherness, instead of division. Both scriptures call upon us today to keep the faith and to be alert for the signs of the times, when it becomes clear that the message of Christ is readily accepted by some, but not by others. We must be ready, He says, even though we do not know when judgment day will come. We must serve God faithfully, and wait patiently, being ready always, working to love one another, and overcoming our divisions that we create for ourselves, and look to Him, Who is our Helper and Savior and Healer and Peacemaker. May God help us all to hear and follow His call now until He comes again. Amen.