SUNDAY JUNE 28, 2026 THIRTEENTH SUNDAY OF THE YEAR (A)
1st Reading: (2 Kings 4:8-11.14-16a)
RESPONSORIAL 0SALM: Psalm 89:2-3.16-17. 1 8- 19 (R .cf. 2a)
2nd Reading: (Romans 6:3-4. 8-11)
Gospel: (Matthew 10:37-42)
TOTAL AND ABSOLUTE COMMITMENT TO CULTIVATING A STONG RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD BEGETS (YIELDS A BOUNTIFUL HARVEST) OF BLESSINGS
Christ calls us to form a deep bond with him.
It is not just enough to have the bond, we must manifest it in every possible way, through thoughts, words and deeds.
In the first reading, the woman of Shunem showed her appreciation for the prophet by providing for his comfort. She did not even need to tell him her problems. Her dedication in attending to his basics needs because he is a prophet caused him to want to show appreciation in his own turn. He inquired into her situation and discovered a need that should be filled... We know the rest.
Christ is telling us that it is not just enough to say we are Christians. He requires us to live it out visibly.
If you say you worship God be intentionally visible about it. If say you love the poor, how do you treat them?
If you say you fight for the weak, are merely a sounding gong, or do you actually go out of your way to make life better for them?
Do you take time to pray for the wellbeing of priests and religious? Do you help support their ministry or are you part of those that derive pleasure sitting in counsels against them?
Something that I also find interesting in the readings is the fact that Jesus does not promise that doing things his way would be smooth sailing, however, persistence and total commitment ensures and assures us bountiful rewards from God.
He who receives a prophet because he is a prophet shall receive a prophet’s reward, and he who receives a righteous man because he is a righteous man shall receive a righteous man’s reward. And whoever gives to one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he shall not lose his reward.”
Dead to Sin and Alive in Christ!
It is no surprise that Paul would ask, “Should we continue in sin so that grace may increase?” His answer is clear: “By no means!”
Yet, it is worth reflecting on his question: how can someone continue living in sin if the sinful nature has already been put to death?
Anyone who remains trapped in a life of sin has not truly died to sin. The truth is simple: if we continue to return to the same patterns of sin, it reveals that we have not fully embraced the new life Christ gives.
We may argue that living a life free from sin is impossible, but Jesus showed us that it is achievable. Like us, He faced trials and temptations, but His own experience was far greater. After a long fast, at a moment of intense hunger and weakness, the tempter challenged Him to use His divine power for His own needs. Yet, even in His humanity, Jesus chose obedience and placed God above Himself.
This teaches us that our choices matter, and we are responsible for the fruits those choices produce.
Therefore, let us continually depend on the Holy Spirit, who renews and strengthens us each day, so that we may truly die to sin and remain alive to God through Jesus Christ.
Ekenemaria Eze
The central message of the Gospel is the cost of discipleship. Jesus reminds us that true discipleship demands sacrifice and wholehearted commitment: “ Whoever does not take up his cross and follow me is not worthy of me” (Mt. 10:38).
Every genuine commitment comes with a cost. We are called to put Christ before our own interests. This lifelong journey involves daily struggles, but the Holy Spirit continually strengthens and guides us. To carry this out faithfully we are reminded to ask ourselves these pertinent questions;
Have I loved enough, have I denied myself?
Have I ducked the responsibility that comes with so much grace?
Is mine a cost worth counting?
Is mine a cross worth lifting?
Have I reduced my discipleship to a too comfortable pace?
May God grant us the grace of final perseverance.
My Reflection
The second reading reminds us of the first sacrament we receive as Catholics - Baptism. Through it, the old life of sin is left behind and a new life in God's grace begins.
St. Paul reminds us that Christ's victory over sin and death is the foundation of Christian life.We are not meant to be controlled by sin, fear or past mistakes. Each day is an opportunity to choose God's way and become more like Christ. Even when we struggle, we can trust that the same power that raised Christ from the dead will guide us to embrace holiness and hope.
May our lives reflect the new life you gave us through your resurrection. Amen.
The Shunammite woman's generosity and faith opened the way for God's blessings. When we serve God wholeheartedly and care for others with love, He remembers our kindness and rewards us in His perfect time.
Lord, grant us a generous heart to serve You through serving others, trusting that You are able to bless us beyond our expectations. Amen.
My Sharing
In today's Gospel, Jesus reminds us that our love for Him must come before every other attachment. This does not mean loving our families less, but loving Christ first so that every other relationship is guided by His love.
Jesus also calls us to take up our cross daily. Following Him requires sacrifice, perseverance, and a willingness to put God's will above our own. Though the path of discipleship may be demanding, it leads to true and eternal life.
Finally, Jesus teaches that no act of kindness is too small in God's eyes. Even offering a cup of cold water to someone in His name is precious and will not go unrewarded. Every act of love, generosity, and service done for Christ becomes an offering pleasing to God.
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