FROM THE ASSOCIATE PASTOR’S DESK
”When Following Jesus Divides the Family”
What’s one of the hardest things about living your Catholic faith?
For many, it’s not the sacrifices. It’s not the teachings. It’s the silence at the dinner table. The eye rolls from adult children. The tension when you mention Mass or morality. It’s the division in your own family.
In this Sunday’s Gospel (Luke 12:49–53), Jesus speaks directly to that painful reality: “Do you think I have come to establish peace on the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division… A father will
be divided against his son and a son against his father…”
This is one of the most difficult things Jesus ever said. But it may also be one of the most honest and relatable.
The Pain of Division Isn’t New
Jesus doesn’t rejoice in family division-but He predicts it. Why? Because truth confronts us. It challenges the world’s values. It calls for change. And not everyone is ready to hear it—even those closest to us.
If you’ve ever felt like the “religious one” in the family… If you’ve ever prayed for a child who’s fallen away… If your spouse or sibling no longer shares your faith… You’re not alone. You’re living exactly what Jesus said would happen. And He says it not to discourage you—but to strengthen you.
Why Truth Can Divide
We live in a culture that says, “You believe your truth, I’ll believe mine.” It sounds peaceful. But it’s not real peace—it’s relativism.
As Catholics, we believe that truth is not invented—it’s revealed. Jesus is not a truth; He is the Truth. And when you hold to Him and His Church, not everyone will agree.
That’s why division happens-not because you’re trying to argue, but because truth makes a claim. It challenges the idea that “anything goes.” It insists that some things are always good, and others are always harmful—even when society disagrees.
And yes, that may put you at odds with family or friends. But defending the truth-with love-is one of the most important ways you imitate Christ.
What Should I Do When My Family Pulls Away?
Jesus isn’t calling you to pick fights or cut people off. He’s calling you to remain faithful, even when it’s uncomfortable.
Here’s how you can respond when your faith creates distance in your family:
- Stay Faithful – Don’t water down your beliefs to avoid conflict. Your quiet witness matters.
- Pray Constantly – Offer Masses, Rosaries, and sacrifices for their return to the faith. God works in ways you cannot see.
- Speak Gently – When opportunities arise, speak truth with love—not lecture or fear.
- Avoid Despair – Even saints like St. Monica waited years-and tears-for their loved ones to return.
- Live Joyfully – A life of authentic Christian joy is one of the most powerful evangelizing tools you have.
Final Thought: Division Isn’t the End of the Story
The Gospel is clear: division may come, but that’s not the final word. The Cross came before the Resurrection. The conflict comes before conversion.
Jesus’ words remind us that faith isn’t always easy-but it’s worth it. The fire He brings purifies our motives, strengthens our witness, and deepens our trust.
So this week, if following Christ has made you feel alone in your own family, remember this:
You are not abandoned.
You are not failing.
You are carrying your cross—with Jesus right beside you.
Hold fast to the truth. Keep loving. Keep praying.
And trust that the same fire that causes division now…
…can bring healing and unity in God’s time.
Fr. Emerson
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