Romans 6:19-23 / Luke 12:49-53
Whenever we face a problem, the tendency is to solve it quickly. In doing so, we may even look for compromising solutions.
For example, in order to handle a problematic child, we tend to use material and financial gifts in order to quell the problem of the child.
In the workplace, when we see something not right being done, we would rather not see and don't bother.
Yes, we rather compromise rather than to challenge ourselves to face the problem.
It is in that sense that Jesus said that He didn't come to bring peace. In fact, He said that He came to bring fire to the earth and how He wished it were blazing already.
To compromise on a solution would only mean that we are faking the peace and sweeping things under the carpet.
To compromise is to be like slaves of sin because we tend to hide from the problem until it burns out of control and resulting in dire consequences.
When we challenge ourselves to face the reality of the problem then we let the fire of Christ burn away the impurities of our intentions.
Then like what the 1st reading said, we will be at the service of righteousness and also for our sanctification.
When we become slaves of God working for sanctifying solutions to life's problems, then we will indeed experience true peace.