Mass Readings and Reflection for July 6th, 2026

First Reading: (Hosea 2:16, 17c–18, 21–22)

Responsorial Psalm: (Psalm 145)

Response: “The Lord is gracious and merciful.”

Alleluia: (2 Timothy 1:10)

Gospel: (Matthew 9:18–26)

Reflection

Today's Gospel presents two extraordinary miracles: the healing of the woman who had suffered from a hemorrhage for twelve years and the raising of a synagogue official's daughter. In both cases, Jesus answered their deepest desires. The woman reached out in faith and was healed instantly. The official trusted that Jesus could restore his daughter to life, and Jesus did exactly that.

These stories remind us of the power of faith. Yet they also raise an important question: What happens when our prayers are not answered the way we hoped?

Many of us have prayed earnestly for healing, restoration, or the life of a loved one, only to experience disappointment, loss, or silence. During those moments, it is easy to wonder whether God hears us or even loves us. We may ask why He seems to answer some prayers while allowing others to remain unanswered.

Scripture reminds us that we are not alone in these struggles. Jesus Himself prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane, asking the Father to remove the cup of suffering from Him. Yet He surrendered completely, saying, "Not my will, but Yours be done." Mary stood faithfully beneath the Cross as she watched her innocent Son suffer and die. Job lost everything he held dear, yet remained faithful despite not understanding God's plan.

These examples teach us that God's silence is not His absence. Sometimes His answer is different because His will is greater than our own desires. His plans often unfold beyond what we can understand, even when they involve pain and sorrow.

Faith, therefore, is not only trusting God when miracles happen; it is also trusting Him when they do not. True faith continues to believe that God's love remains constant, even in suffering.

Today's memorial of St. Maria Goretti beautifully illustrates this truth. At just twelve years old, she remained faithful to God, forgave the man who attacked her, and offered her suffering to the Lord. What appeared to be a tragic ending became a powerful witness of holiness that continues to inspire the world. Her forgiveness led to her attacker's conversion, reminding us that God can bring tremendous good from even the darkest moments.

As we face our own trials, let us remember the promise of Romans 8:28: "All things work together for good for those who love God." We may not understand God's ways today, but we can trust that His wisdom is perfect, His love never fails, and He is always working for our eternal good.

May we have the courage to pray with confidence, to surrender with humility, and to trust God even when His answers differ from our expectations. In every season of life, may we find His love, His peace, and the assurance that He is always with us. 

Amen.