First Reading (Jeremiah 31,1-7)
Reading of the Book of the Prophet Jeremiah.
“At that time, says the Lord, I will be God to all the tribes of Israel, and they will be my people.” Thus says the Lord: “The people who escaped the sword found solace in the wilderness; Israel goes to its rest.” The Lord appeared to me from afar: “I have loved you with an everlasting love and drawn you with mercy. I will build you again, you will be rebuilt, O young house of Israel; your tambourines will adorn the squares again, and you will go out among the dancing groups. You will plant vineyards on the mountains of Samaria; the cultivators will plant and also reap. The day will come when the watchmen will shout on Mount Ephraim: ‘Arise, let us go to Zion, let us go to the Lord our God.’ Thus says the Lord: Shout for joy for Jacob, shout for the first of the nations; play, sing, and say: ‘Save, O Lord, your people, the remnant of Israel.'”
– The word of the Lord.
– Thanks be to God.
Gospel (Matthew 15,21-28)
Proclamation of the Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew.
— Glory to you, O Lord.
At that time, Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon. A Canaanite woman came from that region and cried out, “Have mercy on me, Lord, Son of David! My daughter is severely tormented by a demon!” But Jesus did not answer her a word. Then his disciples came and begged him, “Send her away, for she keeps crying out after us.” Jesus answered, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.” But the woman came and fell down before Jesus and begged him, “Lord, help me!” Jesus said to her, “It is not right to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.” The woman insisted, “Yes, Lord; but even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.” Then Jesus said to her, “Woman, great is your faith! May it be done as you wish!” And her daughter was healed from that moment.
— Word of Salvation.
— Glory to you, Lord.
Reflecting the Word of God
My brothers and sisters in Christ, peace be with you all. Today’s readings bring us a message of hope and faith that is deeply relevant to our lives. Let’s dive into the texts of Jeremiah and Matthew and discover how these words can guide and strengthen us on our spiritual journey.
In the book of Jeremiah, chapter 31, verses 1 to 7, we find a wonderful promise from God to His people. God declares, “I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with lovingkindness I have drawn you.” This passage is a testament to God’s unwavering love for us, even in the midst of our weaknesses and failures. God promises to restore Israel and bring joy back to His people. He says, “I will yet build you, and you shall be built, O virgin Israel.” This promise of rebuilding and renewal is a reminder that no matter how broken or lost we may be, God always has a plan of redemption and restoration for our lives.
Let’s imagine for a moment an ancient tree whose beauty and strength have been eroded by time and storms. The leaves have fallen, the branches are dry, and there seems to be no hope of life. However, with care, water, and nutrients, this tree can flourish again, growing strong, green leaves. Such is God’s love for us. Even when we feel dry and lifeless, His grace and mercy nourish and revitalize us, bringing new life and hope.
In the Gospel of Matthew, chapter 15, verses 21-28, we find the story of a Canaanite woman who seeks Jesus’ help to heal her daughter who is tormented by a demon. This woman, a Gentile, cries out, “Lord, Son of David, have mercy on me! My daughter is terribly demon-possessed.” Initially, Jesus does not respond, and the disciples suggest that He send her away. However, the woman’s persistence and faith are remarkable. Jesus then tests her faith by saying, “It is not good to take the children’s bread and throw it to the dogs.” Her response is a demonstration of humility and great faith: “Yes, Lord, but even the dogs eat the crumbs that fall from their masters’ table.”
This interaction teaches us several important lessons. First, true faith is persistent. The Canaanite woman did not give up, even when it seemed that Jesus was ignoring her. How many times in our lives do we feel that our prayers are not heard? How many times do we face obstacles that seem insurmountable? This woman’s story encourages us to keep seeking, to never lose hope, because God always listens and answers in His perfect timing.
Furthermore, this passage challenges us to reflect on our own humility. The woman accepted being compared to a little dog, but she did not let it get her down. She acknowledged her position and still believed in the power and mercy of Jesus. This leads us to think about how we approach God in prayer. Do we approach Him with a humble heart, acknowledging our total dependence on His grace?
Now, let’s put the messages of these two readings together and apply them to our lives. Jeremiah tells us about God’s promise of restoration and renewal. This reminds us that no matter where we are or what we face, God is working in us and through us to rebuild and renew us. The Gospel of Matthew, on the other hand, teaches us about the importance of faith and humility in our walk with God. When we put these messages together, we understand that our persistent faith and humility are fundamental to experiencing the fullness of God’s promises in our lives.
Let’s reflect on a practical example. Think about a student who is struggling academically. He may feel discouraged and tempted to give up. However, if he persists in his studies, seeks help when necessary, and remains humble, recognizing his limitations and working to overcome them, he will see the fruits of his efforts. Likewise, in our spiritual life, we must persist in our faith, seek God’s help, and remain humble, recognizing that it is only by His grace that we can overcome our difficulties.
Now, my brothers and sisters, let us reflect on our own lives. In what areas do we need renewal and restoration? Where do we need to be more persistent in our faith? Where do we need to practice more humility? May we carry these questions in our hearts and ask God to guide and strengthen us.
Now let us have a moment of silence. Let us close our eyes and ask God for the grace to identify in our lives what needs to be changed. May the Holy Spirit guide us and give us the strength to cut off everything that separates us from His love.
Lord, we thank You for today’s lessons. Help us to live according to Your will, to use our resources justly and generously, and to cut off all that leads us to sin. May we be a light in the world, reflecting Your love in every action and word. Amen.
My brothers and sisters, as we leave here today, let us take with us the hope and determination to live as true followers of Christ. May God’s grace be with us, and may we be instruments of His peace and love in the world. Remember, we are called to be light and salt—let us shine and flavor the world with God’s goodness, justice, and love. Amen.
