Today we hear strong words. Should we take Jesus literally? Is it right to hate our family members? To interpet this literally would contradict the commandments. It would be against love.

Jesus' intense words stress a point. If we truly follow him, there will be a price. At times, we may be called to spend time away from family so that we can serve and love people in greater need. Jesus invites his followers to broaden their circle of love - beyond family - to include others, especially people in need. This is not easy.

We see an example of such inclusive love in St. Paul. In today's first reading, Paul asks Philemon to accept back a slave, Onesimus. Onesimus has done something wrong (perhaps theft) and so runaway from Philemon. Paul is inviting Philemon to forgive Onesimus. What is remarkable is that Paul says Onesimus has become like a son to him. Although he knows Onesimus is a sinner, Paul stands up for this slave and advocates for him as if he were his own son. Onesimus is included in Paul's love.

Who is included in my circle of love? Who is one person in need that the Lord is inviting me to include?