Reflect today on whether or not you struggle to compromise your faith when challenged by others

Do you think I came to establish peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. From now on a family of five will be divided, three against two and two against three; a father will be divided against his son and a son against his father, a mother against her daughter and a daughter against her mother, a mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and a daughter-in-law against her mother - legally. " Luke 12: 51-53

Yes, at first this is shocking Scripture. Why would Jesus have said that he did not come to establish peace but to divide? This doesn't sound like something he would have said at all. And then to keep saying that family members will be divided against each other is even more confusing. So what is it about?

This passage reveals one of the unintended but permitted effects of the gospel. Sometimes the gospel creates a certain disunity. Throughout history, for example, Christians have been severely persecuted for their faith. The example of many martyrs reveals that whoever lives the faith and preaches it can become the target of another.

In our world today there are Christians who are persecuted simply because they are Christians. And in some cultures, Christians are severely mistreated for speaking openly about certain moral truths of the faith. Consequently, the proclamation of the Gospel can at times cause a certain disunity.

But the real cause of all disunity is the refusal by some to accept the truth. Do not be afraid to stand firm in the truths of our faith regardless of the reactions of others. If you are hated or mistreated as a result, do not allow yourself to compromise for the sake of "peace at all costs". That form of peace does not come from God and will never lead to true unity in Christ.

Reflect today on whether or not you struggle to compromise your faith when challenged by others. Know that God wants you to choose Him and His holy will above any other relationship in life.

Lord, give me the grace to keep my eyes on you and your will and to choose you above everything else in life. When my faith is challenged give me courage and strength to remain strong in Your love. Jesus I believe in you