I Am

Gospel

John 14:1-6

1 Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God; have faith also in me. 2 In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If there were not, would I have told you that I am going to prepare a place for you? 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come back again and take you to myself, so that where I am you also may be. 4 Where I am going you know the way.” 5 Thomas said to him, “Master, we do not know where you are going; how can we know the way?” 6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.”

Historical Background

This passage unfolds late on Nisan 14, A.D. 33, during the Passover meal in an upper room in Jerusalem. Jesus has just predicted His betrayal and Peter’s denial. Judas has already left to carry out his betrayal, and the remaining disciples are troubled and confused.

The meal commemorates Israel’s deliverance from Egypt. By Second Temple times, it included the Hallel (Psalms 113–118) and four cups of wine. Jesus likely speaks during the third cup—the “cup of blessing”—when promises of redemption were traditionally pronounced.

Roman surveillance was intense during festivals. Messianic expectations were high, and Jesus’ claims of divine sonship and kingdom language placed Him and His followers under real political threat.

The disciples are disoriented. Jesus, their leader, speaks of leaving. Into this vacuum, He offers the command: “Do not let your hearts be troubled. You believe in God; believe also in Me.” (John 14:1)

Theological Context

This passage is part of Jesus’ Farewell Discourse (John 13–17), preparing His disciples for His departure and the coming of the Holy Spirit.

Jesus is the path to reconciliation with God. He embodies divine revelation and faithfulness. He offers eternal life, not just survival.

Jesus invites trust, not just agreement. He speaks of preparing a place in His Father’s house. This evokes the Jewish betrothal custom, where a groom builds a home before returning for his bride—a metaphor for Christ’s return and the Church’s future union with Him.

Learning Lessons:

Jesus is the path to God. By following His teachings and example, we can find our way to a meaningful and fulfilling relationship with God. He embodies the ultimate truth. His words and actions reveal the nature of God and the principles by which we should live our lives. He offers eternal life. Through Him, we can experience a life that is abundant and everlasting, both now and in the hereafter.

This verse emphasizes that Jesus is the only way to the Father. It calls us to recognize the unique role of Jesus in our spiritual journey and to place our faith in Him. These lessons encourage us to follow Jesus, embrace His truth, and seek the life He offers. 

Reflection for the Day

In seasons of uncertainty, John 14:1–6 offers anchoring hope. Jesus doesn’t promise ease—He promises presence. He prepares a place, walks the path, and embodies truth. Whether you're facing transitions, grief, or doubt, this passage reminds you: You are not alone. He has gone ahead, and He will return for you.

I am the way, the truth, the life, 

In every joy, in every strife. 

I am the light that guides your path, 

The gentle whisper, the righteous wrath.

I am the vine, you are the branches, 

In me, your soul finds second chances. 

I am the shepherd, you are my sheep, 

In my embrace, your heart will keep.

I am the door, the open gate, 

Through me, you'll find your destined fate. 

I am the bread, the living wine, 

In me, your spirit will align.

I am the Alpha and the Omega, 

The beginning and the end, 

In every moment, I am your friend.

I am the healer, the great I Am,

In every prayer, in every psalm. 

I am the love that never ends, 

In me, your broken heart mends.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before You with hearts full of gratitude and reverence. You are the way, the truth, and the life. In You, we find our path, our purpose, and our peace. We thank You for being our guide, our light, and our salvation.

Lord, help us to follow Your way, to embrace Your truth, and to live in Your life. Strengthen our faith and fill us with Your love, so that we may reflect Your grace in all we do. May we always seek Your presence and trust in Your divine plan.

In times of doubt, remind us that You are the vine, and we are the branches. In times of fear, remind us that You are the good shepherd, and we are Your flock. In times of need, remind us that You are the bread of life, and we are nourished by Your word.

Blessed be Your holy name, now and forever. Amen.

Pericope:

III: The Book of Glory

THE LAST SUPPER DISCOURSES

John 14:1-14

Gospel Acclamation

This is the will of my Father, says the Lord, that everyone who sees the Son and believes in him may have eternal life. 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

May 16, 2025, 5:48 AM

November 02, 2024, 3:02 AM 

Blessed Are You

Gospel

Matthew 5:1-12

1 When Jesus saw the crowds, he went up the mountain, and after he had sat down, his disciples came to him. 2 He began to teach them, saying: 3 “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven. 4 Blessed are they who mourn, for they will be comforted. 5 Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the land. 6 Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be satisfied. 7 Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy. 8 Blessed are the clean of heart, for they will see God. 9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. 10 Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the Kingdom of heaven. 11 Blessed are you when they insult you and persecute you and utter every kind of evil against you falsely because of me. 12 Rejoice and be glad, for your reward will be great in heaven. Thus they persecuted the prophets who were before you.”

Background:

Matthew 5:1-12, also known as the Beatitudes, is a part of the Sermon on the Mount, which is one of the most loved portions of the Gospel. This sermon is recorded in Matthew 5-71. Matthew placed it at the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry, emphasizing that Jesus is the authoritative teacher of God’s people.

The Beatitudes were delivered by Jesus on a mountainside, a well-known posture of a teacher. The traditional location of this “mount” is the low hills behind the region of Capernaum and the other fishing villages on the shore.

Before delivering the Beatitudes, Jesus had been announcing that the kingdom of heaven was near and had been calling for people to repent. He had also called the first disciples, Simon Peter and his brother Andrew, who were fishing, and James and John, also fishermen.

The Beatitudes introduce Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, which is found in the Gospel of Matthew. The events described in Matthew take place in Jerusalem, Judea, and the surrounding occupied lands of the Greco-Roman Empire between 10 B.C.E. and 40 C.E3. The book was likely composed between 50 and 90 C.E3.

The Beatitudes include nine sayings from Jesus about the hearts and actions of people living out his Kingdom reality. These statements are grouped into three triads, concluding with three images: salt, light, and a city on a hill.

The discourse was intended for the nation of Israel, the crowds who had been flocking to Jesus. But it was delivered immediately to the disciples. The Beatitudes, and the Sermon on the Mount as a whole, are written in the literary style of prose discourse.

In essence, the Beatitudes unveil the foundations and character of life in the kingdom of heaven. They point to the quality of righteousness that characterizes life in the kingdom, now in part, but fully in the future. They present an affront to our natural inclinations, explaining that followers of Jesus are blessed no matter their present reality because of the sure future hope that is stored up for them in and by God through Christ.

Learning Lessons:

Matthew 5:1-12, known as the Beatitudes, offers profound lessons for our lives:

Blessings are a Gift of Grace: The Beatitudes affirm that blessings already exist for those who are poor in spirit, mourn, are meek, hunger and thirst for righteousness, are merciful, pure in heart, peacemakers, and persecuted1. These blessings are not earned but are freely given by God’s grace.

God’s Comfort in Mourning: Those who mourn are blessed because they will be comforted1. This implies a profound relationship with God, turning affliction into a blessing.

Character of Kingdom People: The Beatitudes paint a picture of the character of God’s kingdom. As we step into God’s kingdom, we aspire to become more like those named as blessed—more meek, more merciful, more hungry for righteousness, more apt to make peace, and so on.

Community in God’s Kingdom: The Beatitudes bless God’s community, not just individuals1. By following Jesus, we become blessed members of the kingdom community, even though our character is not yet formed in God’s likeness.

Love Your Neighbor: It is our responsibility to love our neighbor as ourselves. We are to be compassionate and forgiving, and to show mercy to others. We are also to be honest and truthful, and to do what is right even when it is difficult.

Hope in God: Jesus’s words in Matthew 5:1–12 are meant to remind Christians that their hope isn’t in themselves but in what their great God has done and will do.

These teachings are important, and we should always strive to live by them. They remind us of the humble, generous, and non-violent character of Kingdom people, and the cost and reward of following Jesus. They challenge us to choose love, even in the face of suffering, and to look forward to the fulfillment of God’s promises. 

Reflection for the Day

Blessings are a gift of grace. A profound relationship with God turns affliction into a blessing. 

The Beatitudes affirm that blessings already exist for those who are poor in spirit, mourn, are meek, hunger and thirst for righteousness, are merciful, pure in heart, peacemakers, and persecuted. 

We are to be compassionate and forgiving, and to show mercy to others. We are also to be honest and truthful, and to do what is right even when it is difficult. 

Let us choose love, even in the face of suffering, and to look forward to the fulfillment of God’s promises.

In the realm where grace is the currency,

Blessings flow like a river, a gift of mercy.

A profound bond with the Divine, a mystery,

Turns affliction into blessings, a sacred journey.

The Beatitudes, a heavenly decree,

Affirm blessings for the humble and the free.

For those poor in spirit, for those who see,

For the meek, the righteous, the merciful, the glee.

Blessed are the pure, the peacemakers, the persecuted,

In God's kingdom, their worth is undisputed.

Compassion and forgiveness, virtues recruited,

Mercy shown to others, love undisputed.

Honesty and truth, the right path illuminated,

Even when it's difficult, even when it's complicated.

Choosing love, a choice consecrated,

Even in suffering, our hearts dedicated.

Looking forward to the fulfillment of His promises,

In the face of trials, in the face of abyss.

God's kingdom within us, a bliss,

Blessings are a gift of grace, a heavenly kiss.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before You, acknowledging that blessings are a gift of Your grace. We recognize that a profound relationship with You can turn our afflictions into blessings. We are humbled by the Beatitudes, which affirm that blessings already exist for those who are poor in spirit, mourn, are meek, hunger and thirst for righteousness, are merciful, pure in heart, peacemakers, and persecuted.

Lord, guide us to be compassionate and forgiving, showing mercy to others as You have shown mercy to us. Help us to be honest and truthful, doing what is right even when it is difficult. In the face of suffering, let us choose love, reflecting Your love for us.

We look forward to the fulfillment of Your promises, knowing that Your word is true and Your love is unending. May we live each day in the light of Your grace, striving to embody the teachings of the Beatitudes in our thoughts, words, and actions.

In Your holy name, we pray. Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Proclamation of the Kingdom

THE SERMON ON THE MOUNT

Matthew 5:1-12

Gospel Acclamation

Rejoice and be glad; for your reward will be great in heaven.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

June 10, 2024, 11:51 AM

Rules over Relationships?

 

Gospel

Luke 14:1-6

1 On a sabbath he went to dine at the home of one of the leading Pharisees, and the people there were observing him carefully. 2 In front of him there was a man suffering from dropsy. 3 Jesus spoke to the scholars of the law and Pharisees in reply, asking, “Is it lawful to cure on the sabbath or not?” 4 But they kept silent; so he took the man and, after he had healed him, dismissed him. 5 Then he said to them, “Who among you, if your son or ox falls into a cistern, would not immediately pull him out on the sabbath day?” 6 But they were unable to answer his question.

Historical Background

This passage took place during a Sabbath meal at the house of a prominent Pharisee. In Jewish tradition, the Sabbath was a sacred day of rest, governed by strict laws prohibiting work. 

Healing was controversially considered “work” by many religious leaders. Jesus, aware of their scrutiny, uses this setting to challenge their interpretation of the law and reveal the heart of God.

The man with dropsy (a condition causing swelling, likely due to heart or kidney issues) symbolizes suffering humanity. His presence at the meal may have been a trap set by the Pharisees to test Jesus. Yet Jesus responds not with caution, but compassion.

Theological Context

God’s love transcends legalism. Jesus redefines what it means to honor God—not through rigid rule-keeping, but through mercy. He uses rhetorical questions to expose hypocrisy. If rescuing an ox or child is allowed on the Sabbath, how much more a suffering human?

Theologically, this passage invites us to see divine law through the lens of love. Jesus doesn’t abolish the law—He fulfills it by showing its true purpose: to bring life, not burden.

Learning Lessons

Compassion must never be postponed for the sake of tradition. Acts of restoration are not interruptions to worship—they are worship.

Jesus models boldness in the face of silent opposition. The Pharisees’ silence reveals their hardened hearts. Our silence before God should be humble, not resistant.

Reflection for the Day

Today, reflect on this: Are there moments when I prioritize rules over relationship? Do I hesitate to help because I fear judgment or disruption?

Let the Lord’s question echo in your heart: “Is it lawful to heal on the Sabbath?” What is your answer—not just in words, but in action?

“The Silence of the Sabbath”

In the hush of holy hours,  

Where law and love collide,  

A swollen man stands quietly,  

While watchers choose to hide.

The Teacher sees beyond the rules,  

Beyond the silent stares,  

He lifts the weight of suffering,  

With hands that heal and care.

“Would you not save your child or beast?”  

He asks with piercing grace,  

Yet none dare speak, for truth revealed  

Has met their hardened face.

But mercy moves where silence fails,  

And love breaks every chain,  

The Sabbath sings a sweeter song—  

A healing in the pain.

Lord Jesus, 

You are the healer of hearts and bodies, The One who sees through silence and speaks truth with love. 

Forgive me when I cling to comfort or custom Instead of compassion and courage. Teach me to honor Your Sabbath not by rest alone, but by restoring others in Your name. Let my hands be open, my heart be soft, and my faith be bold enough to heal. 

Amen.

Pericope:

IV: The Ministry in Galilee

HEALING OF THE MAN WITH DROPSY ON SABBATH

Luke 14:1-6

Gospel Acclamation 

My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; I know them, and they follow me.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Blessed Be Jesus Christ!

  

Gospel

Luke 13:31-35

31 Some Pharisees came to Jesus and said, “Go away, leave this area because Herod wants to kill you.” 32 He replied, “Go and tell that fox, ‘Behold, I cast out demons and I perform healings today and tomorrow, and on the third day I accomplish my purpose. 33 Yet I must continue on my way today, tomorrow, and the following day, for it is impossible that a prophet should die outside of Jerusalem.’ 34 “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you, how many times I yearned to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, but you were unwilling! 35 Behold, your house will be abandoned. But I tell you, you will not see me until the time comes when you say, Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.”

Historical Background

The passage unfolds during Jesus’ journey to Jerusalem, a city symbolic of both divine promise and prophetic rejection. Herod Antipas, the Roman-appointed tetrarch of Galilee, had already executed John the Baptist (Luke 3:19–20), making the Pharisees’ warning about Herod’s threat credible and ominous.

While often portrayed as antagonists, the Pharisees here seem to act protectively. Their warning may reflect genuine concern or a strategic move to deter Jesus from his mission. Luke’s Gospel occasionally shows Pharisees engaging with Jesus in complex ways (Luke 7:36; 14:1).

Jesus’ lament over Jerusalem echoes the fate of many prophets who were rejected or killed there. The city, central to Jewish worship and identity, tragically becomes a place of resistance to God’s messengers.

Theological Context

Jesus responds to Herod’s threat with resolve: “I am casting out demons and performing cures today and tomorrow, and on the third day I finish my work” (v. 32). This signals that his death is not a disruption but the culmination of his mission—aligned with divine purpose, not political fear.

His acts of healing and exorcism are signs of the inbreaking kingdom (Luke 11:20), fulfilling Isaiah’s vision of liberation and restoration (Luke 4:18–19). Jesus’ journey is not just geographical—it’s theological, moving toward the cross and resurrection.

Jesus likens himself to a hen longing to gather her chicks—a rare and tender metaphor that reveals divine compassion and vulnerability. It contrasts sharply with Jerusalem’s unwillingness to receive grace.

Learning Lessons:

The desolation of the house symbolizes the spiritual emptiness that comes from turning away from God. It highlights the consequences of rejecting Jesus and His message. Despite the warning, there is a message of hope. Jesus indicates that there will be a time when people will recognize Him and welcome Him. 

This points to the possibility of redemption and restoration. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing and accepting Jesus as the Messiah. True peace and fulfillment come from acknowledging Him and His authority.

The verse serves as a call to repentance and a reminder that the opportunity to turn to Jesus is available, but it should not be delayed. These lessons encourage us to reflect on our relationship with Jesus, to seek His presence in our lives, and to embrace the hope and redemption He offers. 

Reflection for the Day

Today’s passage invites us to reflect on courageous love and lament:

Jesus models steadfastness. Despite threats, he continues healing and proclaiming truth. In our own callings—whether spiritual, social, or personal—do we press forward with purpose, even when fear tempts retreat?

Jesus doesn’t condemn Jerusalem with rage but mourns its resistance. His grief is rooted in love. Can we hold space for sorrow when others reject grace, and still desire their restoration?

Like Christ, we’re called to journey toward places of pain—not with vengeance like Jonah, but with compassion that defies violence and fear. May we walk today with hearts full of mercy, eyes fixed on purpose, and a love that gathers even when rejected.

Blessed be Jesus Christ, our King, 

In His name, our hearts shall sing. 

With love and grace, He leads the way, 

Guiding us through night and day.

In every trial, He stands near, 

Wiping away each fallen tear. 

His light shines bright, a beacon true, 

In His embrace, we are made new.

Blessed be the Savior's name, 

Forevermore, His love proclaim. 

In joy and sorrow, peace and strife, 

He is the way, the truth, the life.

With grateful hearts, we lift our voice, 

In His presence, we rejoice. 

Blessed be Jesus Christ, our Lord, 

In Him, our souls are restored.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before You with hearts full of gratitude and praise. Blessed be Your holy name, for You are our Savior and King! We thank You for Your boundless love and mercy, which sustain us each day.

Guide us, Lord, to walk in Your ways and to live according to Your will. Help us to spread Your light and love to all those we encounter. May our lives be a testament to Your grace and goodness.

In times of joy and in times of trial, we trust in Your divine plan. Strengthen our faith and fill our hearts with Your peace. Blessed be Jesus Christ, now and forever.

Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

HEROD'S DESIRE TO KILL JESUS / THE LAMENT OVER JERUSALEM

Luke 13:31-33 / 34-35

Gospel Acclamation:

Blessed is the king who comes in the name of the Lord. Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.

Reflection Source

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

October 31, 2024, 6:06 AM

First and Last

 

Gospel

Luke 13:22-30

22 Jesus passed through towns and villages, teaching as he went and making his way to Jerusalem. 23 Someone asked him, “Lord, will only a few people be saved?” He answered them, 24 “Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough. 25 After the master of the house has arisen and locked the door, then will you stand outside knocking and saying, ‘Lord, open the door for us.’ He will say to you in reply, ‘I do not know where you are from.’ 26 And you will say, ‘We ate and drank in your company and you taught in our streets.’ 27 Then he will say to you, ‘I do not know where you are from. Depart from me, all you evildoers!’ 28 And there will be wailing and grinding of teeth when you see Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob and all the prophets in the Kingdom of God and you yourselves cast out. 29 And people will come from the east and the west and from the north and the south and will recline at table in the Kingdom of God. 30 For behold, some are last who will be first, and some are first who will be last.”

Historical Background

Jesus is journeying toward Jerusalem, a path that foreshadows His rejection and crucifixion. His teachings intensify as He nears the city, emphasizing urgency and repentance. Primarily religious Jews who assumed their heritage guaranteed salvation. Jesus disrupts this notion by stressing personal response over national identity.

In Jewish thought, the patriarchs (Abraham, Isaac, Jacob) and prophets were revered. Jesus’ statement that many will see them in the Kingdom while being excluded themselves was deeply provocative.

Theological Context

The Narrow Door symbolizes the exclusivity and difficulty of true discipleship. Salvation is not automatic; it requires striving (Greek: agonizomai, meaning to struggle or contend).

“Some who are last will be first…” reflects a recurring theme in Luke—God’s Kingdom overturns worldly status. Outsiders (Gentiles, sinners, the poor) may enter ahead of the presumed righteous.

The closed door, weeping, and gnashing of teeth evoke eschatological judgment. Jesus warns that proximity to religious activity (“we ate and drank with you”) is not enough without transformation.

Learning Lessons

This verse is a powerful reminder of the values of the Kingdom of God, which often turn worldly expectations upside down. It emphasizes God's justice and fairness. Earthly status and achievements do not determine one's standing in the Kingdom of God.

In God's Kingdom, everyone has value and worth. Those who may seem insignificant or humble in the eyes of the world can be highly esteemed in God's Kingdom. It offers hope to those who feel overlooked or marginalized. It reminds us that earthly success and power are not the ultimate goals. True greatness comes from serving others and living according to God's will.

These lessons encourage us to live with humility, seek justice, and value every person as God does. 

Reflection for the Day

This passage invites deep introspection. It’s easy to assume that religious rituals, church attendance, or cultural identity secure our place in God’s Kingdom. But Jesus redirects the question—not “how many will be saved?” but “will you be saved?”

The narrow door calls for intentional living—prayer, humility, repentance, and love. Familiarity with Jesus is not the same as following Him. Let our faith be active, not passive.

God’s grace reaches beyond boundaries. Be open to how He works in others, even those we might overlook.

Today, let us walk with urgency and grace—seeking the narrow door not out of fear, but out of love for the One who calls us in.

In the quiet corners of the earth, 

Where humble hearts find their worth, 

The last shall rise, the first shall fall, 

In God's great Kingdom, love rules all.

The mighty oak from acorn small, 

The greatest rise from those who crawl. 

In every soul, a spark divine, 

In every heart, a sacred sign.

The meek shall lead, the proud shall bow,

In God's own time, in God's own now. 

For in His eyes, we all are one, 

The race is run, the prize is won.

So let us live with humble grace, 

And find our place in God's embrace. 

For in His Kingdom, all shall see, 

The first and last in harmony.

Dear Lord Jesus,

We come before You with hearts full of gratitude and humility. We thank You for Your teachings that remind us of the true values of Your Kingdom. Help us to embrace the lesson that the first shall be last, and the last shall be first.

Grant us the grace to live with humility, to serve others selflessly, and to seek Your will above all. May we find joy in lifting others up, knowing that in Your Kingdom, greatness is measured by love and service.

Teach us to see the worth in every person, to honor those who are often overlooked, and to recognize that true honor comes from You alone. May we be instruments of Your peace and justice, reflecting Your love in all we do.

Lord, guide us to live in a way that honors You, with hearts open to Your wisdom and hands ready to serve. May Your Kingdom come, and Your will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.

In Your holy name, we pray.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

THE NARROW DOOR; SALVATION AND REJECTION

Luke 13:22-30

Gospel Acclamation: 

God has called us through the Gospel to possess the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

August 24, 2025, 8:17 AM

October 30, 2024, 4:10 AM

Time with God

 

 

Gospel

Luke 6:12-16

12 Jesus went up to the mountain to pray, and he spent the night in prayer to God. 13 When day came, he called his disciples to himself, and from them he chose Twelve, whom he also named Apostles: 14 Simon, whom he named Peter, and his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, 15 Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called a Zealot, 16 and Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.

Historical Background

This moment occurs early in Jesus’ public ministry, after growing tension with religious leaders over Sabbath observance and healing. Jesus retreats to a mountain—a traditional place of divine encounter in Jewish tradition (think Moses on Sinai).

Choosing twelve apostles echoes the twelve tribes of Israel, symbolizing a new spiritual foundation for God’s people. The men chosen were from varied backgrounds—fishermen, tax collectors, zealots—none were religious elites. Even Judas Iscariot, who would later betray Jesus, was included.

Theological Context

Jesus spends the entire night in prayer before making this pivotal decision. This models dependence on the Father and prioritizes spiritual discernment over human strategy.

The term “apostle” (Greek: apostolos) means “one who is sent.” These twelve were not just followers—they were entrusted with authority and mission.

The inclusion of Judas Iscariot reveals the mystery of divine choice. Jesus knew Judas would betray Him, yet still chose him—an act of radical grace and sovereignty.

Learning Lessons

Major decisions should be bathed in prayer. Jesus didn’t rush—He retreated, listened, and waited.

The apostles weren’t perfect. Their calling wasn’t based on merit but on divine purpose. Like Judas, we may falter. Yet Jesus still invites, equips, and loves us.

Reflection for the Day

Today, pause and ask: What decisions am I making without prayer? Who in my life feels “unlikely” yet may be divinely chosen? Am I willing to be sent, even with my flaws?

Let Jesus’ example challenge your rhythm. Before the noise of the day, climb your own “mountain” and seek the Father’s heart.

“The Mountain Called Me”

The mountain called me in the hush of night,

Where stars bore witness to prayer’s quiet fight.

No crowd, no clamor, just heaven’s breath,

As Jesus knelt and wrestled with death.

He named the twelve with trembling grace,

Each soul a story, each heart a place.

Even the traitor, chosen still—

A mystery wrapped in sovereign will.

Lord, call me too, though weak I stand,

Shape me gently with nail-scarred hands.

Let my yes be bold, my steps be true,

For I am one You’ve chosen too.

Lord Jesus, 

You withdrew to pray, to listen, to align with the Father’s will. Teach me to do the same—to seek Your voice before I speak, to wait before I move, to trust that You see beyond what I understand.

You chose the twelve, knowing their strengths and sins. You chose Judas, knowing his betrayal. Yet Your love did not waver. Choose me again today, Lord. Not because I am worthy, but because You are merciful. Send me where You will. Shape me into one who reflects Your grace. And when I falter, remind me: You still choose me. 

Amen.

Pericope:

IV: The Ministry in Galilee

THE MISSION OF THE TWELVE

Luke 6:12-16

Gospel Acclamation

We praise you, O God, we acclaim you as Lord; the glorious company of Apostles praise you.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

“Straightened by Grace”

 

Gospel

Luke 13:10-17

10 Jesus was teaching in a synagogue on the sabbath. 11 And a woman was there who for eighteen years had been crippled by a spirit; she was bent over, completely incapable of standing erect. 12 When Jesus saw her, he called to her and said, “Woman, you are set free of your infirmity.” 13 He laid his hands on her, and she at once stood up straight and glorified God. 14 But the leader of the synagogue, indignant that Jesus had cured on the sabbath, said to the crowd in reply, “There are six days when work should be done. Come on those days to be cured, not on the sabbath day.” 15 The Lord said to him in reply, “Hypocrites! Does not each one of you on the sabbath untie his ox or his ass from the manger and lead it out for watering? 16 This daughter of Abraham, whom Satan has bound for eighteen years now, ought she not to have been set free on the sabbath day from this bondage?” 17 When he said this, all his adversaries were humiliated; and the whole crowd rejoiced at all the splendid deeds done by him.

Historical Background

The setting is in a synagogue in first-century Judea, likely during Jesus’ journey toward Jerusalem. Women with physical ailments were often marginalized. This woman, bent over for 18 years, likely endured both physical suffering and social isolation.

Healing was considered “work,” and religious leaders strictly prohibited such acts on the Sabbath. Jesus’ healing challenged this rigid interpretation.

The synagogue was not only a place of worship but also of teaching and public discourse. Disputes like this one were common and often public.

Theological Context

Jesus’ words “Woman, you are freed…” (v.12) echo divine authority. The Greek word apolelusai (freed) shares roots with “loosed” in v.15–16, symbolizing spiritual and physical release.

Jesus rebukes the hypocrisy of valuing animals over human healing (v.15). He redefines Sabbath holiness as a time for restoration, not restriction.

Jesus identifies the woman’s condition as being “bound by Satan” (v.16), revealing a deeper spiritual battle behind physical affliction. This healing is a signpost of the Kingdom of God—where the last are lifted, the bound are freed, and mercy triumphs over ritual.

Learning Lessons

The woman didn’t ask for healing; Jesus initiated it. He sees our silent suffering. He heals not just the body but restores dignity, community, and worship.

True faith prioritizes compassion over rigid rule-keeping. Rest is not passive—it’s a space where God actively restores.

Reflection for the Day

Today, consider the ways you may be “bent over”—burdened by shame, fear, or weariness. Jesus calls you forward, not to expose your weakness, but to restore your strength. Are there traditions or expectations that keep you from receiving grace? Let this passage remind you: mercy is the true mark of holiness.

“Straightened by Grace”

Eighteen years, a silent ache,

Bent low beneath a heavy stake.

No hand to lift, no voice to call,

Just shadows dancing on the wall.

But then He spoke—no grand parade,

Just simple words that gently bade:

“Woman, rise, be loosed, be free,”

And grace rewrote her history.

No longer bowed, she stood upright,

Her soul ignited by the Light.

The crowd rejoiced, the proud grew dim,

As mercy sang its Sabbath hymn.

Lord Jesus, 

You who see the bent and burdened, Thank You for calling us forward when we feel unseen. You laid Your hands upon the broken, and with one word, You restored what years had stolen.

Heal the places in me that have grown weary— The silent aches, the hidden wounds, the doubts I carry. Teach me to honor Your Sabbath not just in rest, but in acts of mercy, in love that lifts others up.

Let me never be so bound by rules that I miss the miracle standing before me. Make me a vessel of compassion, a witness to Your liberating grace.

In Your name, I rise. Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

CURE OF A CRIPPLED WOMAN ON THE SABBATH

Luke 13:10-17

Gospel Acclamation

Your word, O Lord, is truth; consecrate us in the truth.

Reflection Source:

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