Christ come first

Gospel

Matthew 10:34-11:1

It is not peace I have come to bring, but a sword

Jesus instructed the Twelve as follows: ‘Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth: it is not peace I have come to bring, but a sword. For I have come to set a man against his father, a daughter against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law. A man’s enemies will be those of his own household.

‘Anyone who prefers father or mother to me is not worthy of me. Anyone who prefers son or daughter to me is not worthy of me. Anyone who does not take his cross and follow in my footsteps is not worthy of me. Anyone who finds his life will lose it; anyone who loses his life for my sake will find it.

‘Anyone who welcomes you welcomes me; and those who welcome me welcome the one who sent me.

‘Anyone who welcomes a prophet will have a prophet’s reward; and anyone who welcomes a holy man will have a holy man’s reward.

‘If anyone gives so much as a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because he is a disciple, then I tell you solemnly, he will most certainly not lose his reward.’

When Jesus had finished instructing his twelve disciples he moved on from there to teach and preach in their towns.

Reflection on Matthew 10:34-11:1

In this passage, Jesus challenges our common expectations of peace and comfort in following Him. He reveals that His mission may bring division even within the closest of relationships—family ties may be tested as we choose allegiance to Him above all else. This “sword” is not one of violence, but of truth and commitment that cuts through our attachments and priorities. Jesus calls us to a radical discipleship: to take up our cross daily, to lose our life for His sake in order to truly find it. Yet, He also assures us that welcoming His messengers and showing kindness to the “little ones” will not go unrewarded. The path of faith may be difficult and costly, but it is also one of profound purpose and divine reward.

Question for Reflection:

In what ways might I need to realign my priorities to follow Jesus more faithfully, even if it means facing challenges or division?

Prayer Based on the Gospel

Lord Jesus,

You call me to a faith that is bold and true, even when it brings struggle and sacrifice. Help me to take up my cross each day and to follow You without hesitation. Give me the courage to put You above all else, trusting that in losing my life for Your sake, I will find true life. Open my heart to welcome Your messengers and to show kindness to those in need, knowing that no act of love is ever forgotten by You. Strengthen me in my journey, and keep me close to You always.

Amen.

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