October 24. Religious conflict. “Do you ever feel as if there is too much to achieve and not enough time?” “I’m sure we all do, but what is really important to achieve?“   “I feel passionate about my church commitments but I do also think I have neglected my family because of my church work. Where is the balance?” Jesus himself knew that his time was limited and that his teaching, even of the fire of love, would cause division in families or communities. Today Christian fire, joy and enthusiasm of some is disliked by others.  In spite of that we should reflect carefully how to respond to our own calling.

Reflect, share, act. Scripture: “I came to cast fire upon the earth and would that it were already kindled. Do you think I have come to give peace on earth? No I tell you, but rather division. Luke 12:49-53: Pope Francis:   if there is no transcendent truth, of the dignity of the human person as the visible image of the invisible God, then there is no sure principle for guaranteeing just relationships between people. Their self-interest as a class, group or nation would inevitably set them in opposition to one another, the force of power takes over and each person tends to impose his own interests or his own opinion with no regard for the rights of others. FT 273.  Action and Prayer.   Do I experience peace or division in my personal life? Pray: Come Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of your faithful, and kindle in us the fire of your love, so that walking together we may renew the face of the earth.