First Reading - Genesis 18:16-33
Gospel - Matthew 8:18-22
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In the first reading, Abraham stands before God and intercedes for the people of Sodom. He shows persistence and courage, pleading not only for the innocent but for the guilty as well. Abraham becomes a model of faith and compassion, embodying the call to stand in the gap for others. His prayerful dialogue with God highlights his personal relationship with the Lord and his concern for humanity. He teaches us that true closeness to God does not make us indifferent to others, but rather moves us to take responsibility for their salvation.
In the gospel, Jesus challenges two would-be disciples. One enthusiastically declares he will follow Jesus wherever he goes, but Jesus cautions him with a sobering reality: “Foxes have holes and birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head.” Discipleship is not a path of ease but of sacrifice and detachment. Another asks to delay following Jesus until after burying his father. Jesus responds with a provocative call: “Follow me, and let the dead bury their own dead.” This doesn’t imply insensitivity to family obligations, but it underscores the urgency and primacy of God’s call. Nothing—not even the most sacred duties—can take precedence over the demands of discipleship.
Dear friends, these readings remind us that being a true follower of Christ means placing Him above everything else and taking responsibility for others through prayer, service, and witness. Like Abraham, we are called to be intercessors for the world, and like the disciples, we are invited to leave behind all that hinders us from following Jesus fully.
May we have the courage to follow Jesus with undivided hearts and the compassion to stand before God on behalf of others.
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