Every day brings new opportunities to answer that question to answer how we’re going to follow Jesus. In warning that he brings division, Jesus isn’t saying that that’s his mission. He’s saying that for those who follow him, there will be breaks or stresses in relationships even within families. This is not Jesus giving permission to be jerks because we’re so sure that we’re right so we need to cut people out or have them cut us out because we’re so insufferable…That’s where Jesus prods us today, telling us that following him will upset the apple cart and that the rest of the parade won’t like the beat we’re following. In the fullness of time God’s reign, which is at hand will be truly established and there will be peace.

The Rev. Joseph Peters-Mathews is the vicar of St. Hilda St. Patrick. The sermon for Sunday, August 7, 2022 was preached as a response to the texts for Proper 14, Track 1. The sermon was preached extemporaneously.

Paul tells the Colossians and us that through our baptisms, we can’t be hopeless. “If you have been raised with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth, for you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God.”

Throughout this letter Paul has not held back on his critiques but throughout it he has been positive and affirming. He loves the Colossians and that comes through. He also doesn’t want them to think they need to worship or pray to river spirits or angels who have part of God’s divinity alongside Jesus who also has just a part. No, Paul says, all rulers and authorities of the world were created through him. Through his resurrection, they have been shamed and brought into submission.

As someone who can get very wrapped up in policy and court opinions and how are things going to work I understand the Colossians’ look for secret truths ways to appease the minor gods who may actually be in control. Then Paul calls me out…in this hymn to Christ that Paul has slightly reworked Paul gives the Colossians hope…