Relationships

We very quickly came to the conclusion that these can be some of the scariest verses to someone considering the Christian life. Too often people hear these verses as a prophecy of what is soon to come, as if the separation of family is a prerequisite for the dedicated follower. A person can very quickly come to fear what they view as dire consequences. Their entire focus can become only about the separation of family.

However, if we know anything about God, it is that family is an important concept in God’s eyes. Today’s reading reminds us that God cares deeply about us, including our family relationships. There are times, however, that due to our beliefs, family may have differing opinions. Jesus is giving us a heads-up about that.

Regardless of what is to come, we are to know that God is going to be with us through it, and that God always wants relationships to be repaired.

Comforting Lord, keep us firm in the knowledge that you will watch over us, regardless of what comes our way in life. Amen. — LGR