Gospel: Matthew 10:34–11:1
Do not think that I have come to establish peace on earth. I have not come to bring peace, but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, and a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. Each one will have as enemies, those of one’s own family.Whoever loves father or mother more than me, is not worthy of me. And whoever loves son or daughter more than me, is not worthy of me. And whoever does not take up his cross and follow
me, is not worthy of me. Whoever finds his life will lose it; but whoever loses his life, for my sake, will find it.
Whoever welcomes you, welcomes me; and whoever welcomes me, welcomes him who sent me. The one who welcomes a prophet, as a prophet, will receive the reward of a
prophet; the one who welcomes a just man, because he is a just man, will receive the reward of a just man. And if anyone gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones, because he is my disciple, I assure you, he will not go unrewarded.”
When Jesus had finished giving his twelve disciples these instructions, he went on from there, to teach and to proclaim his message in their towns.
Reflection
Family in God's kingdom.
Family is the fundamental unit of our society, and its strength often comes from blood connections. The saying "blood is thicker than water" highlights the importance of these familial ties. In many cultures, family plays a significant role in shaping individual lives and guiding their paths. Throughout history, wars and treaties have often been influenced by family relationships.
In the context of the Gospel, Jesus broadened our understanding of what it means to be a family in God's kingdom. For Christians, family extends beyond mere blood relations; we are
connected through our shared faith. Our Christian beliefs indicate that we are all sisters and brothers, with God as our Father. This connection transcends biological ties.
From this faith perspective, we can better understand how families and relationships function. We share a common belief that we are united in faith, and through this faith, we participate in Christ's mission to make God's family a reality in our world. This calling requires a response from those who wish to follow Jesus.
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