A reflection on Luke 12:49–53 for Thursday of the 29th Week in Ordinary Time.
I am happy when everyone gets along. I spend enough time settling disagreements between my three children at home. With other adults, I would prefer to enjoy conversation without having to question what someone has said.
Jokes can turn cruel. Someone’s accent becomes a source of entertainment, or a family’s problems are a thing to laugh about. I am uncomfortable, but quiet. I think that maybe I misunderstood. I don’t want to embarrass the person making the comment. And it didn’t seem to bother anybody else.
In today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks about division, even within families. Those words are hard for me. Family unity matters deeply to me, and I do not want every disagreement to become a fight. But Jesus leaves me asking whether I sometimes call it peace when I simply do not want to risk anyone’s displeasure.
I think about my mother, who finds English difficult. I would want someone to speak up if she were treated as foolish because she could not come up with the right word. I should have that same respect for someone I don’t know.
Following Jesus does not mean I need to look for arguments. And my opinions do not need to be defended as if they all came directly from him. I need humility, especially when I am angry.
But I can say, “I don’t think that is fair.” I can ask, “Would we say that if she were here?” I do not need a speech prepared in advance.
It might be awkward. I might be perceived as too sensitive. Saying it politely will not always make my words welcome.
I also need to reexamine my own jokes. I have to be willing to hear it myself and apologize when my words are not what they should be.
Lord Jesus, give me courage when staying quiet would leave someone alone in their hurt. Help me speak plainly and kindly. Keep me from confusing my pride with faithfulness to you. When I have demeaned someone, help me admit it and ask forgiveness. Amen.