Luke 12:49-53

content/bible_journal/luke_12:49-53.md

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+title = "Luke 12:49–53"
+date = "2022-12-20"
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+
+### [Read the passage.](https://biblia.com/bible/esv/Lk12.49-53)
+
+Those who believe in a passive, hippy Jesus probably don't like reading these
+verses. But the things Jesus said and did are radical and controversial. The
+thing to remember is that this is a problem with us, not with Him. Our sinful
+selves want to rule our own lives, not accept that God The fires of judgement
+are coming whether we expect them or not, and Jesus is ready and _eager_ to
+bring them.
+
+There are now 5 days left until Christmas this year. I am struck by the tension
+of the angels declaring "Peace on earth!" at Jesus's birth, and then Jesus
+saying, "Do you think I have come to give peace on earth?" (_v. 51_) We would
+do well to remember that wasn't the entirety of the angel's message. "'Glory to
+God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom he is pleased!'"
+(_Luke 2:14_) Those who please God are going to have peace (with God, in
+particular). Those who don't will see God's glory and tremble for the disaster
+that will befall them.
+
+Serving God will always set us apart from those who do not. As the Apostle Paul
+said, "so far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone." (_Romans
+12:18_)
+
+* * *
+
+Come quickly, Lord Jesus. Make everything right on the earth once again.