The Gospel today presents a challenging image of Jesus: "I have come to cast fire upon the earth; and how I wish it were already kindle...
The Gospel today presents a challenging image of Jesus: "I have come to cast fire upon the earth; and how I wish it were already kindled!" This Fire is not one of destruction, but of purification and zeal. It’s the Fire of the Holy Spirit, the Fire of radical discipleship that burns away complacency and demands a choice, which can, as Jesus warns, lead to painful division even within a family.
This radical choice is the path to the Freedom St. Paul describes in the first reading. He reminds us that the "wages of sin is death," but we have been given Freedom from sin’s tyranny to become "slaves of God." Our new life is meant to bear Fruit—the Fruit of sanctification, leading to eternal life.
St. John of Capistrano, whose optional memorial we celebrate, was a man consumed by this divine Fire. Known for his fervent, street-preaching ministry, he was a living embodiment of the Lord’s zeal. He didn't shy away from controversy or division; his preaching of repentance and reform was a fire that shook the foundations of society. His life bore extraordinary Fruit, not only in spiritual conversion but in the defense of Christian Europe.
Brothers and sisters, where is the Fire in our own lives? Are we truly living in the Freedom of Christ, or have we slipped back into the subtle slavery of sin? Let the Fire of Jesus’ call ignite in our hearts today, purifying our intentions and helping us to bear abundant Fruit for his Kingdom, no matter the cost. Amen.
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