20TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME C

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FIRE! FIRE!

Terrible things happen when there is a fire. Properties are destroyed, lives are lost, so much ruin left behind. That is why there is a fire prevention month each year, specially during summer. 

But there is one thing positive that happens when there is a fire. The community suddenly becomes awake. The community becomes united. People forget even their animosities toward each other and start to help put out the fire. After the fire, people assist each other in building up from the ashes of the unfortunate event.

Today Jesus speaks about bringing fire to the world. it is not the fire of destruction but the fire that wakes people up, and propels them to action. It is the fire that makes make the best decision for their lives, leaving behind petty things and focusing on what is really important. That is why this fire can separate people from each other too, once what is most important become clear.

Sometimes events happen in our families or communities that may seem to be destructive and consuming fire. But then more than the harm, we soon find that there are many more good things that occur. Families are united by the birth of a special child. Death in the family brings home estranged members and starts reconciliation. A sickness can wake us up to our need for God and for other people.

Is there a fire in your life today? allow Jesus to stand in the midst of the fire and show us that good things can come even from the most devastating event of life.


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