Thursday, October 22, 2026

Mass Readings & Reflection Thursday, October 22nd, 2026


First Reading:
(Ephesians 3:14-21)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 33)

Response: "The Lord's merciful love fills the earth."

Gospel: (Luke 12:49-53)

Reflection

In today's Gospel, Jesus speaks about casting fire upon the earth. Throughout Scripture, fire symbolizes many realities: God's presence, purification, transformation, judgment, and the power of the Holy Spirit.

The fire Jesus desires is the fire of zeal for God, a burning desire to know Him, love Him, serve Him, and draw others to Him.

When the Holy Spirit descended upon the Apostles at Pentecost, He appeared as tongues of fire. Those fearful men became courageous witnesses. Their hearts were ignited with passion for Christ and His mission.

The question for us today is:

How strong is our fire?

Many of us begin our faith journey with enthusiasm. We eagerly pray, attend Mass, read Scripture, and participate in parish life. Yet over time, routine, disappointments, worldly distractions, and spiritual complacency can cool that fire.

Jesus challenges us to examine our hearts:

  • Have I become lukewarm in my faith?
  • Do I still hunger for prayer and the sacraments?
  • Am I passionate about growing closer to Christ?
  • Do I seek heaven with the same intensity as I pursue earthly goals?

St. Paul tells Timothy:

"Fan into flame the gift of God that is within you" (2 Timothy 1:6).

This is a call for spiritual renewal. The Lord wants us to rekindle our first love, renew our commitment, and serve Him with fervor and joy.

As healthcare professionals, parents, workers, and disciples, we should approach each day as a gift from God. Pray as though it were our last opportunity to pray. Love as though it were our last opportunity to love. Serve as though it were our last opportunity to serve.

A life lived with zeal becomes a witness that inspires others toward Christ.

Amen


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