Read Matthew 10:26-39
The birth of our Lord ushered in an entirely new way of living life. When Jesus describes this new model of living he does so by explaining to his followers that he did not come to bring peace on earth but rather a sword. The story of his life bears this out as a tale surrounded in violence.
The teachings of Christ, if followed, have a divisive element to them. Due to their new convictions it is common now, just as it was in the first century, for a new follower of Christ to be shunned by their family and friends. If this is the case--and we know that it is--how then, can Jesus tell us to have no fear? Here is why I think we can trust those words of Jesus:
When we declare “Jesus is Lord” we do not do so alone. We instantly become part of a vast community of people who have made that same declaration for centuries. We enter into an entirely new way of living and an entirely new community.
A community committed to hope, peace, joy, love.
A community committed caring for the basic needs of its members.
If you lost your family to become a Christian you gain a new one. If you lost your friends, there are new people to stand with you. So while the message of Christ can divide, it simultaneously connects.
The peace of Christ, a peace which is described as surpassing all understanding, dwells in his body; the church. In this season, as we celebrate of the birth of our Lord, let us consider the sparrows and let us also consider the sword. Reach out to those in your community; they are your family and you are theirs. The peace of Christ be with you
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