First Reading - Jeremiah 38:4-6,8-10
Second Reading - Hebrews 12:1-4
Gospel - Luke 12:49-53
In the first reading, Jeremiah is thrown into a cistern simply for speaking God’s message. His words called people to change, and that truth was not welcome. Yet God did not abandon him — He stirred the heart of Ebed-melech, a foreigner, to rescue the prophet. This shows us that when we are faithful, even in the face of opposition, God will not leave us alone.
The second reading from Hebrews calls us to “run with perseverance the race that is set before us,” fixing our eyes on Jesus. It acknowledges the reality of struggle and the temptation to give up, but reminds us that our strength comes from the One who endured the cross for our salvation.
In the Gospel, Jesus speaks words that can shock us: “I have come to bring fire on the earth” and “division” rather than peace. He is not promoting hatred or discord, but telling us that His message — the call to true discipleship — will inevitably provoke resistance. The fire He brings is the fire of the Holy Spirit, a fire that purifies, transforms, and ignites hearts with zeal for God. But fire also divides — between those who embrace the Gospel and those who reject it.
The truth is, when we take our faith seriously, it will sometimes set us apart. Friends, family, or colleagues may not understand. We might face criticism or even rejection. But the cost of discipleship is never greater than the reward — eternal life in Christ.
Let us pray for the courage of Jeremiah, the perseverance urged by Hebrews, and the holy fire Jesus longs to set ablaze in our hearts. May we be faithful witnesses in a world that desperately needs the light of His truth, even when that light shines in uncomfortable places.
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