The 12th Sunday in Ordinary Time – 24 June 2023.
Lectionary Readings: Jer. 20:10-13; Ps. 68:8-10.14. 17. 33-35; Rom. 5:12-15; Matt. 10:26-33
Theme: Courageous Faith in an Era of Uncertainty
In Matthew 10:26-33, Jesus imparts a powerful message about fear, courage, and the enduring faith required to navigate the challenges of living as Christians in today’s world. As we reflect on these verses, we find profound social relevance and invaluable lessons that resonate deeply with the struggles we face today.
In this passage, Jesus urges his followers not to succumb to fear or intimidation, reminding them that what is hidden will eventually be brought to light. He encourages them to proclaim their beliefs boldly, even in the face of opposition and potential persecution. These words carry immense significance in our modern era, where fear often dominates the social and political landscapes, and speaking up for truth and justice can be met with severe consequences.
Today, we live in a world that is increasingly interconnected and yet rife with divisions, where issues such as inequality, discrimination, and injustice persist. Fear, whether driven by political ideologies, social pressures, or personal circumstances, can paralyze us, preventing us from standing up for what is right. However, Jesus challenges us to find the strength within ourselves to confront these fears, to be unafraid of the consequences that may come from speaking truth to power.
The passage also reminds us that every individual holds great value in the eyes of God. Jesus tells his disciples that God cares for even the smallest of creatures, and that if God’s love and care extend to them, how much more will it extend to the disciples?
Jesus warns his disciples about the potential for betrayal and the hardships they will face as they carry out their mission. This resonates deeply with the experiences of individuals who advocate for social change today. Those who dedicate themselves to championing justice and equality often encounter opposition, facing backlash from those who resist change or benefit from the status quo.
This passage reminds us that perseverance in the face of adversity is vital. It teaches us that our faith in a higher purpose, rooted in love, truth, and justice, can sustain us through the darkest of times. It encourages us to maintain hope and remain steadfast in our commitment to creating a better world,
even when the road is treacherous.
Matthew 10:26-33 offers us a relevant and powerful message for our contemporary society. It calls us to confront our fears to speak up against injustice. It reminds us of the inherent value of courageous faith, and the transformative power it holds to bring about social change. Let us embrace these teachings, drawing inspiration from the words of Jesus, as we strive to build a more just, compassionate, and inclusive world for all.
For Reflection and Discussion: 1. Recall an experience of “speaking truth to power.” 2. How did you feel about it? Where did you find the courage and strength to do it?
This week’s Sunday Liturgy Commentary was prepared by
Sr. Petite Lao, RNDM, Philippines, Bat Kol Alumna 2010, 2014, 2019
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