In our Mass readings this Sunday, we hear of the persecution of the prophet Jeremiah for warning of the destruction of Jerusalem by the Babylonians. We hear of Jesus' enduring of opposition from sinners, in the form of the Cross. And we hear Jesus himself speak of the division that he establishes, even within households.

We do not like being told that we are sinners, and that our sins have consequences, now and - potentially - eternally. We like thinking that we are in control over our lives, in control over what is good and what is evil, in control over the consequences of our actions. And if we are committed to this way of thinking, then God's message to us will demoralize us, and will also divide us from him and from those who accept that message.

In fact, God's message is the message of salvation. It is the message that, if we accept it, will unite us to him, now - even though we may still have to endure some consequences of our sins, in union with the Cross of Jesus Christ - and eternally - in perfect happiness and peace and glory. We should note Jesus' reference to his death on the Cross at the hands of sinners as "a baptism." It is especially by dying on the Cross that Jesus proclaims God's message of salvation and hope. And this is because by dying on the Cross Jesus cleanses us of our sins and reconciles us with the Father.

But to accept this message, this forgiveness, this salvation, it is necessary for us to accept the reality that we are in need of forgiveness and salvation - that we are sinners, and that we are otherwise bound for destruction.

May God grant us humbly to admit and repent of our sins, and so to accept his salvation and happiness.