There are many times when God challenges us—moments that stir our hearts and make us desire change, leading us to live a better life.
The Gospel for this 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time speaks about how God casts fire on the earth and how this fire will bring division. At first, when I read the passage, I felt afraid. I wondered, Why would God cast fire upon the earth if He truly loves us? But upon reflecting more deeply, I realized that God’s fire is not a sign of rejection or punishment. Instead, it is the fire of His love and truth—a fire that seeks to purify, transform, and renew us.
As a seminarian, I encounter this fire in different ways—during Holy Hour, in meditation, and most especially at Mass. This fire is not one that burns or destroys me; rather, it molds me into a better person and a more faithful follower of Christ. I know that this journey is not always easy or comfortable, and I am aware that challenges will surely come. But I also know that following Christ requires both courage and trust in God.
My dear brothers and sisters, to embrace this fire means to let go of material things that cannot last and to learn how to love more deeply. It means allowing God to enter our hearts. When we let Him take over, His light shines through us, and we become instruments of His love in the world.
