Divided

But some of them said: He casteth out devils by Beelzebub, the prince of devils.

And others tempting, asked of him a sign from heaven. But he seeing their thoughts, said to them: Every kingdom divided against itself, shall be brought to desolation, and house upon house shall fall. And if Satan also be divided against himself, how shall his kingdom stand? because you say, that through Beelzebub I cast out devils. Now if I cast out devils by Beelzebub; by whom do your children cast them out? Therefore they shall be your judges. But if I by the finger of God cast out devils; doubtless the kingdom of God is come upon you.

When a strong man armed keepeth his court, those things are in peace which he possesseth. But if a stronger than he come upon him, and overcome him; he will take away all his armour wherein he trusted, and will distribute his spoils. He that is not with me, is against me; and he that gathereth not with me, scattereth. When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through places without water, seeking rest; and not finding, he saith: I will return into my house whence I came out. And when he is come, he findeth it swept and garnished.

Then he goeth and taketh with him seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and entering in they dwell there. And the last state of that man becomes worse than the first.
Luke 11:15-26 (Douay-Rheims)

Prayer

Dear Father how true it is said that if a kingdom is divided how can it stand. Can that also be said of a heart that is divided. We choose to follow Jesus and yet often we are divided in our loyalties. How often have I done what you asked of me, or have I done my own thing instead. Have I chosen to live my life for myself rather than for your kingdom. Do I make excuses each time one of your children is in need. Am I divided then, choosing to ignore the conscience that knows the right path, but instead takes me farther away from you. Dear Father help me to remove those demons that divide my heart from doing your will. May I strive to be ever vigilant to bring unity in my own heart and life, where I too can be one in the kingdom of your salvation. With you living within me rather than the ones that seek my ruin. Amen