Sunday, October 25, 2026

30th. Sunday in Ordinary Time

On this Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary time, the readings invite us to reflect upon the very heart of our Christian faith: Love of God and love of neighbor These two commandments, inseparably united by Jesus Christ, form the foundation of our relationship with God and guide the manner in which we are called to live as His disciples.

In today’s Gospel (Matthew 22:34-40) a scholar of the Law approaches Jesus with a questions: “Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?” At a time when Jewish religious life was guided by hundreds of commandments and regulations, the question was intended to test Jesus’ understanding of the Law. His response, however, reveals the essential meaning of everything God has commanded. Jesus declares that the greatest commandment is to love the Lord with all our heart, soul, and mind. He immediately adds a second commandment, equally essential: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

Within our own parish community, we are blessed with countless opportunities to put these commandments into practice. Every act of generosity, every visit to someone who is sick or homebound, every effort to strengthen family life, every hour devoted to teaching the faith, and every gesture of reconciliation becomes an expression of our love for God. When we serve one another with sincerity and compassion, we make the presence of Christ visible in our midst.

As we gather around the altar to celebrate the Holy Eucharist, we encounter the greatest expression of divine love. Jesus Christ gives Himself completely for our salvation. Nourished by His Body and Blood, we are sent forth to carry that same love into our homes, workplaces, neighborhoods, and communities.

This Sunday’s Gospel challenges us to examine our hearts. Do we truly place God first in our lives? Does our love for Him influence the way we speak, act, forgive, and care for others? Are we willing to extend compassion even to those who ae difficult to love?