Mass Readings and Reflection for June 2nd, 2026

First Reading: (Peter 3:12–15, 17–18)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 90)

Response: O Lord, you have been our refuge from generation to generation.

Gospel Acclamation

Alleluia, alleluia.

Remain in my love, says the Lord; whoever remains in me will bear much fruit.

Alleluia.

Gospel: (Mark: 12:13–17)

Reflection:

Today’s Gospel begins with people approaching Jesus with sweet and flattering words. They praised Him publicly, pretending admiration and friendship, yet their hearts were filled with malice. Their goal was not to honor Jesus, but to trap Him.

They said:
“Teacher, we know you are truthful and teach the way of God honestly.”

Beautiful words-but empty hearts.

Jesus immediately recognized their hypocrisy. He knew that behind their smiles was a hidden agenda.

Beloved, this remains true even in our own lives. Often, those who hurt us most are not strangers, but people who pretend to be close to us. They smile with us, praise us publicly, gather information from us, and later use it against us behind our backs.

This kind of false friendship is painful because it comes disguised as love and loyalty.

The Gospel teaches us two important lessons.

1. Be Wise About the Company You Keep

Not everyone who praises us truly wishes us well. Some people speak kindly in front of us but destroy our name behind us. Over time, their actions reveal their intentions.

Jesus teaches us to be discerning, not suspicious of everyone, but wise enough to recognize hypocrisy when it becomes evident.

At the same time, we must not respond with hatred. Pray for such people. Jesus Himself loved His enemies and prayed for those who persecuted Him.

2. Let our friendships Be genuine.

If we truly care about someone, we do not smile before them and then wound them behind their backs. True friendship is honest, sincere, and charitable.

If correction is needed, love speaks privately-not through gossip, humiliation, or betrayal.

Let our smiles be genuine. Let our words be truthful. Let us never become the hidden cankerworm destroying relationships from within.

Today, let's beware of those who come with flattery. And when we show kindness to others, let it come sincerely from the heart.

Amen.

God bless you 🙏 

Pal Ronnie