Matthew 12:22-28

Matthew 12:22-28New Revised Standard Version (NRSV)

Then they brought to him a demoniac who was blind and mute; and he cured him, so that the one who had been mute could speak and see. All the crowds were amazed and said, “Can this be the Son of David?” But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, “It is only by Beelzebul, the ruler of the demons, that this fellow casts out the demons.” He knew what they were thinking and said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself is laid waste, and no city or house divided against itself will stand. If Satan casts out Satan, he is divided against himself; how then will his kingdom stand? If I cast out demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your own exorcists cast them out? Therefore they will be your judges. But if it is by the Spirit of God that I cast out demons, then the kingdom of God has come to you.

Do you know of any divided houses?

Depending on who you talk to, America has never been more divided than it is right now.  The news would seem to back it up: Ferguson, Washington, the border...There seems to be a huge breakdown somewhere.

However, historically speaking, huge divisions have existed in this country since day one.  Patriots vs. Tories; Federalists vs.anti-Federalist Jeffersonians; Abolitionists vs. Slave owners.

What does it say about how we do or do not stand?

In the midst of a divide country (or even divided churches and homes), trying to put our situation within this teaching of Jesus can be tricky.  

Until perhaps we look at ultimately what it is that is happening here. 

Healing.

In a home divided, who is it that is trying to repair?  When sides are drawn up, who is trying to heal?  When churches battle over polity or theology, who is trying to restore and forgive and reconcile?

There's a lot that needs healing these days.  There always has been.  And sadly, in the news, we don't often hear about the healing that is happening.

Division happens.  And division weakens.  It weakens the foundations of countries, communities, churches, and families.

And division needs healing. Healing, Jesus says, that comes from the Spirit.

The Spirit makes whole.  The Spirit heals.

If there is division in your home or church or community, look to the places and people who seek healing and wholeness.  The Spirit is at work there bringing God into the midst.

God of justice and reconciliation, send your Spirit to blow through our lives bringing healing and wholeness to the places that are divided and broken.  Amen.