Daily Gospel Reflection for February 13, 2026

It was important to Jesus to be welcoming to all who came to Him. Here He is in predominately Gentile territory, preaching and teaching, when the people bring a blind and mute man to Him. This man must have been very dear to them, and they knew that Jesus could cure Him. Taking the man aside, Jesus showed him that he had His full attention and care, no matter who he was. It was very important for Jesus to show him and those around him that everyone is important and loved by Him. Gentile or Jew, all were loved and welcomed by Jesus.

 

Touch, in those days, was contingent upon the situation. A sick person was untouchable if they had a disease such as leprosy or were bleeding. The sick or blind were thought to have some sin laid upon them. Jesus, so many times, physically touched those He healed. Here, He demonstrated that unconditional, welcoming love by touching this man, showing how special he was.

 

Being welcoming and open to those around us is a gift. I have recently realized that I do not show that to my neighbors. My grown children all have their own homes, and they each have decorated their front doors with happy, inviting themes with the word “welcome” in them. Speaking with friends one night, I confessed that I look at front porch décor and never choose something that says "welcome." A sinking feeling of guilt came over me, and I realized that I do not want people to come by and visit, particularly unannounced. That's not how Jesus lived His life and not how He wants me to live either. I’m making a commitment to change, immediately.