Grace and Space

Lk 12:49-53
Divisive ministry: The passage consists of three originally independent sayings which deal with the divisive effects of Jesus’ ministry.
The first reminds the reader of the initial proclamation of John the Baptizer: “He [Jesus] will baptize you with the holy Spirit and fire” (3:16). Here, Jesus declares, “I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing!” (v 49). The union of fire and Spirit will be accomplished at Pentecost, when the disciples are driven forth on their mission of spreading the good news.
The second of the three sayings echoes the Marcan account of the request by James and John for the places on the right and left of Jesus (cf Mk 10:38-39). There, Jesus refers to his rejection, suffering, and death as a baptism. Here in Luke, Jesus declares, “There is a baptism with which I must be baptized, and how great is my anguish until it is accomplished!” (v 50). After Jesus’ death the fire (Holy Spirit) will come. Pentecost follows Jesus’ suffering and death.
The third of the three sayings explains the result of the fire which will come after Jesus’ suffering and death—division. The proclamation of the Gospel will result in division of families. From Luke’s point of view, the Spirit produces division before the Spirit brings unity in families and in the Church.