Message from Fr. Luis Flores

St. Maurice at Resurrection Catholic Parish

My Dear Parish Family,

The image of fire in sacred scripture was often associated with God and with his action in the world and in the lives of his people. God sometimes manifested his presence by use of fire, such as God's revelation to Moses through the burning bush in the wilderness which was not consumed by the flames.

Fire is also a sign and symbol of the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. John the Baptist said that Jesus would baptize with the Holy Spirit and with fire. When the Holy Spirit was poured out upon the disciples at Pentecost "tongues of fire" appeared above their heads. We can see from both the Old and New Testament Scriptures that God's fire purifies and cleanses to make us clean and holy fit to offer him acceptable praise and worship, and it inspires a reverent fear and respect for God and for his holy word.

• Why did Jesus link fire from heaven with costly division on the earth?

• Did he expect his followers to take his statement of "father against son and son against father" and "mother against daughter and daughter against mother" literally?

• Or was he intentionally using a figure of speech to emphasize the choice and cost of following him above all else?

Jesus challenges his disciples to examine who they love first and foremost. A true disciple loves God above all else and is willing to forsake all for Jesus Christ. Jesus insists that his disciples give him the loyalty which is only due to God, a loyalty which is higher than spouse or kin.

• Do you want to be on fire for God?

• Do you listen to the voice of your Savior and trust in his words?

Commit your ways to him, obey his word, and you will find true peace, joy, and happiness in the Lord your God.

Amen.

Fr. Luis Flores
Parochial Administrator