Today’s Gospel is from Saint Matthew 10:34-42.

At that time, Jesus said to His disciples, Do not think that I have come to send peace upon the earth; I have come to bring a sword, not peace. For I came to set a man at variance against his father, and the daughter against her mother, and the daughter in law against her mother in law. And a man’s enemies shall be they of his own household. He that loveth father or mother more than me, is not worthy of me; and he that loveth son or daughter more than me, is not worthy of me. And he that taketh not up his cross, and followeth me, is not worthy of me. He that findeth his life, shall lose it: and he that shall lose his life for me, shall find it. He that receiveth you, receiveth me: and he that receiveth me, receiveth him that sent me. He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet, shall receive the reward of a prophet: and he that receiveth a just man in the name of a just man, shall receive the reward of a just man. And whosoever shall give to drink to one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, amen I say to you he shall not lose his reward.

In today’s Gospel reading, there are passages that have been challenging or perplexing for some people. In these verses, our Lord tells us that He has not come to bring peace to the earth but a sword, and that His presence will lead to division even within families. These words may leave some wondering how they fit with the message of love, peace, and unity that we often associate with Jesus’ teachings. Let’s not forget that Jesus is not advocating violence or discord within families or communities. Christ is emphasizing the impact that following Him can have on our lives and in our relationships. When we choose to follow Jesus, we are making a commitment that will certainly set us at odds with those who do not share the same faith. This is not because Jesus desires conflict but because the truth of the Gospel always challenges the world’s so-called values and lack of morals.

Jesus calls His sheep to love Him above all else. He declares that anyone who loves their family or themselves more than Him is not worthy of Him. This doesn’t mean that we literally abandon our loved ones; what Jesus is teaching us is that our ultimate allegiance belongs to God. When we prioritise our relationship with Christ, it will lead to tensions with those who do not share our faith or who prioritise other values. Jesus speaks of taking up our cross and following Him. The world does not understand this concept. The cross was an instrument of suffering and death, and Jesus is telling us that discipleship will involve hardship and sacrifice. Following Christ requires us to deny ourselves, to let go of our own desires and comforts for the sake of His kingdom. It is a call to selflessness and self-surrender.

At first glance, a new follower of Jesus may find these teachings to be difficult and may become frightened as to what the future holds. However, Jesus offers us hope and assurance. He promises that those who lose their life for His sake will find it. This paradoxical statement means that true fulfilment and purpose are found in living for Christ and His mission. When we live selflessly and sacrificially for the Gospel, we discover a deeper and more meaningful life.

Within these passages, Jesus tells us that whoever receives a disciple or a prophet in His name will receive a reward. This lets us know of the importance of hospitality and support within the Christian community. When we welcome and support fellow disciples of Christ, we participate in their ministry and share in the blessings that come from it. Jesus also spoke of the reward for giving a cup of cold water to one of His disciples. Even the smallest acts of kindness and support for our fellow believers are seen by God and are rewarded. This is part of living out our faith.

The words of Jesus in today’s Gospel challenge us to examine our priorities and commit ourselves wholeheartedly to Him. Following Christ will lead to division, hardship and even persecution from the world, but it also leads to a life filled with purpose, meaning, and eternal rewards. Embrace the call to discipleship and love Christ above all else and serve one another with selflessness and hospitality. In doing so, we fulfil His command to take up our cross and follow Him, knowing that He is with us every step of the way.

God bless you +
Fr. Charles
28 September – St. Wenceslaus