It is often the case that people who take a stand for what is right and good can find themselves at odds with their own group. There have been many examples of whistle-blowers who are ostracized because they brought to light some inappropriate behaviour that others would have preferred to keep hidden.

It is against such a background that Jesus’ sayings at the beginning of today’s gospel reading could be understand. He declares that He has come not to bring peace but a sword and to set members of families against each other.

Jesus recognized that those who followed in His way would often find themselves at odds with their own family members who had not embraced the way of Jesus.

Earlier in Matthew’s gospel Jesus declared blessed those who are persecuted for what is right. Now He acknowledges that such persecution could come even from within one’s own family.

That is why Jesus goes on to declare in this gospel reading that those who chose to follow him will have to keep preferring Him even to their family members, when that is called for.

To be excluded from one’s family, or one’s peer group, for the sake of Jesus and His values, entails a huge loss.

Yet, Jesus declares that those who lose their life for His sake will find it. The gospel calls on us to risk everything, even our most significant relationships, for the sake of Jesus and all He stands for.

It is a call that remains as challenging today as it did when Jesus first uttered it.