Daily Gospel Reflection for July 17, 2025

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

What mom doesn’t need a rest? No matter the ages of our kids, we are all busy fulfilling the needs of the children entrusted to our care. Ads and articles abound telling us that we need to practice self-care to prevent ourselves from burning out. Treat yourself, our culture tells us. Go for coffee, put your feet up, head to the spa for some pampering. This is often the image of rest we are asked to pursue.

Today’s Gospel reminds us of the source of true rest. When we are burdened by laundry and dishes, sibling squabbles and friendship woes, potty training, stomach bugs, messes, clutter, and chaos, it can feel like we might collapse under the weight. Though we might be tempted to turn to Starbucks or a nail salon to cure our weariness, we really only need to look to our Lord. Instead of secular selfcare, the way to find true rest is to imitate the meek and humble heart of Jesus. Spiritual self-care in the form of prayer and the sacraments strengthens us to live out our vocations and helps to lighten the burdens we carry as mothers. By imitating Christ and looking to Him for help and guidance, we will find the rest we so desperately need as well as the grace to continue our daily work.

Ponder:

What burdensome aspect of motherhood can I bring to our Lord today?

Pray:

Jesus, when the struggles of motherhood threaten to crush me, help me to remember to turn to You in prayer and seek the true rest that only You can provide.

CM DGR daily sq