10/29/2026 (Thursday) Today’s Gospel reading: 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.”
10/29/2026 (Thursday) Today’s Gospel reflection / homily / sermon: Luke 13:31-35
Theme: Live your Mission Today
Jesus continues His mission despite warnings that Herod wants to kill Him. He remains determined to fulfill His Father’s will, expressing deep sorrow for Jerusalem because its people have repeatedly rejected God’s messengers. His heart is filled with love for a people who refuse to receive Him. This passage teaches us about courage, faithfulness, compassion, and the importance of responding to God while we still have the opportunity.
T — Trust God Despite Your Troubles
Life is full of challenges, uncertainties, and people who may discourage us from doing what is right. Like Jesus, we may encounter opposition when we follow our principles and stand for the truth. Some may misunderstand our intentions, criticize our decisions, or try to prevent us from fulfilling our responsibilities.
But we must remember that our mission is not determined by the opinions of others. When we know that we are doing what is pleasing to God, we can move forward with courage. Trusting God does not mean that we will never experience difficulties; it means that we do not have to face them alone. Let faith be stronger than fear, and let God’s purpose guide your steps.
O — Obey God’s Purpose Without Delay
Jesus knew the mission entrusted to Him, and He refused to abandon it because of threats. His example reminds us that we all have responsibilities that deserve our attention. We are called to love, forgive, serve, encourage, and become instruments of God’s goodness.
Sometimes, we postpone doing what is right because we are waiting for the perfect moment. We delay apologizing, helping someone in need, or reconciling with a person we have hurt. But the perfect moment may never come.
Do not allow fear, pride, or procrastination to prevent you from fulfilling God’s purpose. Even a small act of kindness can become a meaningful expression of faith. When God places an opportunity before you, respond with a willing heart.
D — Develop a Heart Filled with Compassion
Jesus’ sorrow for Jerusalem reveals the depth of His love. Despite the people’s repeated rejection, He longs to gather and protect them. His response teaches us that genuine love does not easily give up on others.
In our daily lives, we encounter people who disappoint us, misunderstand us, or refuse our advice. It is tempting to respond with anger or distance ourselves completely. Yet Jesus invites us to look beyond people’s weaknesses and recognize their need for understanding, healing, and love.
Compassion does not mean approving every wrong action. It means correcting others with humility, forgiving when possible, and continuing to pray for those who have lost their way. A compassionate heart reflects God’s patience and mercy.
A — Appreciate the Opportunities God Gives You
Every day is an opportunity to begin again. We have another chance to strengthen our faith, repair broken relationships, serve our families, and bring hope to someone who feels forgotten.
Jerusalem’s tragedy reminds us that God’s invitations should never be taken for granted. We must not become so distracted by worldly concerns that we ignore His presence and guidance.
Today, ask yourself: Am I listening to God? Am I making room for Him in my decisions? Am I using my time to do something meaningful?
Never assume that you will always have another opportunity to express your love. Appreciate the people beside you, treasure the blessings you receive, and use your gifts to make a difference.
Y — Yield Your Life to God’s Loving Hands
Ultimately, Jesus teaches us to remain faithful even when the road ahead is difficult. He does not allow threats to silence His mission or rejection to extinguish His love.
Let us follow His example. Surrender our worries to God, remain steadfast in our convictions, and allow His love to shape our actions. We cannot control every circumstance, but we can choose how we respond.
TODAY is God’s invitation to live with greater faith, courage, and compassion. Yesterday’s failures cannot be changed, and tomorrow remains uncertain, but today is an opportunity to walk with God.
Do not wait until life becomes easier to do what is right. Do not wait until someone deserves your kindness before showing love. Begin today, trust God today, forgive today, and serve today.
For the best way to prepare for tomorrow is to live faithfully in God’s presence TODAY.
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