Division is usually caused by disparity of beliefs. What we believe motivates our decisions and consequently guides our life. A Christian and a non-believer are guided differently in their ways. As at the time Jesus made the statement that his coming will bring division and not peace, only a few believed in his teachings. So, Jesus already envisaged the division that his teaching will cause in a household where some are his disciples and others are not. Jesus then prayed earnestly for his baptism (his death) because through his blood he would make peace and reconcile all things to himself (Col 1:20). This was evident in the post resurrection evangelism as the number of believers increased. Sharing in the death of Christ through our baptism, we too become reconcilers who should work for the salvation of all. We should not be divided by differences in religion but let the love of Christ continue to urge us on towards winning souls for God. When the love of God motives all that we do, we will gradually break the barrier that separates us.

Prayer: Christ our Saviour, make us your instrument of reconciliation and peace so that our world may come to love you more. Amen.