Jesus said, “I came to bring fire to the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled!”
Luke 12.49
The fire Jesus wishes were already kindled points to this challenge of Jews and Gentiles in Christ working together to reconcile divisions. Fire is a symbol of the Holy Spirit. Early in Luke’s gospel John the Baptist connects fire, Spirit, and baptism when he anticipates one more powerful than he who “will baptize not with water but with the Holy spirit and fire” (Luke 3.16).
How do you work to reconcile divisions in our communities of faith today?
If you enjoy this Gospel Reflection,
please visit the Sunday By Sunday page
to order a subscription or request a free sample.
Start a small bible study. Be a leader.