Daily Gospel Reflection for July 20, 2026

Reflect on the Gospel of Matthew and explore how to recognize Christ in others, encouraging outreach and service to those in need.

Today's Gospel: Matthew 12:38-42

Today’s Gospel describes how the scribes and Pharisees asked Jesus for a sign. He pointed them to Jonah in the belly of the whale and told them He would be in the heart of the earth three days and three nights. Jesus held up the men of Nineveh as an example to the scribes and Pharisees because at least the men of Nineveh repented at the preaching of Jonah. So often, prophets are not recognized or respected. And how often do we, in our own lives, refuse to hear the Word of God or ignore the promptings of the Holy Spirit?

Our faith teaches us that we are all made in the image and likeness of God. Thus, we are all called to treat others as our brothers and sisters in Christ. Do we do that, or do we drive past the homeless man on the sidewalk? Do we walk quickly past the overly talkative co-worker? Do we choose to sit with the lonely people at parish functions or crowd in at the table with our old friends?

If I’m being honest, I sometimes drive past the homeless person – especially if I do not have any food or even a dollar to offer. I am also guilty of preferring to sit with my friends rather than the newcomer or the outsider at parish activities. But we are called to reach out, to see Christ in others and to be Christ for others.

Ponder:

Will we recognize Jesus Christ in our midst?

Pray:

Dear Lord, please help me to see Your face in the people it can be easy to overlook.

Pray Together:

Consider some ways to discover the image of Christ in your midst. Make a plan as a family to go outside your comfort zone to discover and serve Jesus in the poor or those in need.

Copyright 2026 Leigh Ann Roman