Daily Gospel Reflection for June 12, 2025

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Reflection by Gabriella Ribeiro

Today's Gospel: Matthew 5:20-26

Yesterday, we heard Jesus affirm our responsibility toward obedience and proclaim that He has come to fulfill the Mosaic Law. In today’s Gospel, Jesus continues to explain that there is a certain conduct required of us, deeper than simply checking the boxes and doing all the right things.

“I tell you, unless your righteousness surpasses that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will not enter into the Kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:20

In this moment, Christ challenges everyone, even those considered to be the most holy among them, because it is not so much an issue with their obedience to the law, but more deeply a misalignment of their hearts. Everyone knows that killing another person is a sin, but what about everything that leads one to kill? Today, Christ calls out and calls higher everyone who has ears to listen. He warns us to not let evil fester in our hearts even if it never reaches our hands, for the choice of anger over mercy and forgiveness is, in itself, a choice to sin.

“Therefore, if you bring your gift to the altar, and there recall that your brother has anything against you, leave your gift there at the altar, go first and be reconciled with your brother, and then come and offer your gift.” Matthew 5:23-24

How many times have you heard someone say to you that there is a person or action they could never forgive? Maybe this is something you yourself have said. Sometimes we convince ourselves to move on from a situation in our minds without first forgiving the offender in our hearts. Depending on the situation, this can feel impossible. But Christ tells us it is necessary for the good of our souls, and with Him, the perfect model of love and forgiveness, it is possible.

Ponder:

Does it ever feel like you are just going through the motions without acting out of love? What is a way you could better avoid the near occasion of sin?

Pray:

Lord, my heart is imperfect, but I give it to You to refine and strengthen. Change my heart that I may love and live like You.

Copyright 2025 Gabriella Ribeiro

Gabriella is a member of the Mission Advancement team at Holy Cross Family Ministries, where she manages donor marketing and communications. She also serves as Youth Minister at Saint Michael the Archangel Parish in Winthrop, MA, where you just might find her singing worship music at Adoration. Her downtime is filled with art making, car jam sessions, and fellowship within Boston’s vibrant Catholic young adult communities. 100% Catholic, 0% Mom, Gabriella is nonetheless excited to join this lovely team of ladies in sharing the Gospel with you all!