Richard Dawson. Everyone remember him? The host of the 80s TV show Family Feud. Almost always more “fun” than “feud!” Light hearted entertainment pitting amused and amusing families against one another for prizes.

Luke 12:49-56 with its “divisions of family” over the ministry of Jesus seems a far cry from a 20th century television game show. I doubt many of us could read these scriptures about the necessity of judgment and turn so easily to pass the time watching TV!

But, so much else on current TV IS about division, judgment, conflict, and family and national heartache. The bible is better than TV as both a mirror for seeing ourselves as we are and a “grooming kit” for getting us to look better!! Thus, we should not despair when we read these “rough ” passages of scripture. Rather, we can find ways to be hopeful that “family feuds and worldly conflicts” do not have the last word! Ultimately the Prince of Peace will prevail. As we might paraphrase the line from Family Feud, “Survey says….”: rather, “Jesus says….!”

Bring the “family” to church Sunday!

Leave the feuds at the door!

Peace and Grace,

Pastor Barry