Daily Gospel Reflection for July 13, 2026

Find comfort in Jesus amidst family estrangement. Embrace faith and prayer to heal divisions and focus on God's love and guidance in challenging times.

Today's Gospel: Matthew 10:34-11:1

As someone who lives with family estrangement, I look to today’s reading as a way to normalize my experience.  Jesus is instructing the disciples that there will be division among families, which is of comfort to me, knowing that God has His hands on my situation. On the other hand, I have to wonder why God allows the division to occur.

In this passage, as a family splits apart, one member will choose to follow Jesus while another will turn away from Him. I believe that what Jesus is telling us is to refrain from idolizing one another, to set aside those attachments, and to focus our attention entirely on Him.

In today’s society, family estrangement has become increasingly common and can stem from various reasons. What brings me comfort in this situation is the understanding that Jesus encourages me to detach myself from the conflicts within my family and to redirect my focus onto Him.

I do this by giving my estranged family member to Jesus every single day. After all, we are all God's children before we become members of a family. The prayerful act of releasing this heavy burden from my heart and mind brings me peace, knowing that this is what Jesus expects of me.

At the end of every day, my faith reminds me that God wants all things to work for my good, not my harm, and anything according to His will comes to fruition.  That is where I find my hope and joy!

Ponder:

On the hard days when I am angry with God for family or friends who have separated from me, can I be strong enough to ask God to take charge of the situation? 

Pray:

Loving God, I trust in You no matter what is happening in my life. If you are willing, Lord, heal family division among us, and bring everyone we love into Your light and love.

Pray Together:

Is there someone you know who is suffering from family estrangement? Send them a comforting note or card letting them know you are praying for and thinking of them. 

Copyright 2026 Kimberly Novak