Daily Gospel Reflection for July 31, 2026

Explore how familiarity can breed indifference towards Jesus in your life. Reflect on what parts of your soul you hold back and seek to honor Him fully.

Today's Gospel: Matthew 13:54-58

“Where did this man get all this? And they took offense at him.” It is already the thirteenth chapter of Matthew’s Gospel, so it is logical to think that the people of Jesus’s native place had at least a few stories about “this man.” But it seems they are not interested in Jesus because they know Him and His family, and what could the kid next door possibly have to say to me?

I do not know why the people were not interested in what Jesus said. It may have been jealousy, pride, or disbelief that a person who grew up with them could have wisdom. Sadly, these are the same reasons people turn from Jesus today. And these reasons lead to a lack of faith that can make us stubborn and keep Jesus far from us so that He cannot help us in our daily life, let alone work a mighty deed.

How do we keep Jesus far from us? We do not allow Him total access to our lives. We break our lives, ourselves, into portions and give them out as pieces. A bit for work, some for spouse, children, and family, and what is left we give to Jesus. And when He does not jump when we ask or fulfill our every need, we think He does not care or have time for us.
And nothing could be further from the truth. It seems like Jesus does not have time for us when it is we who have little time for Him. We put limits on where He is allowed to go in our lives and in our souls. Do not be like His neighbors. Give Him all the honor and glory that belongs to Him, and He will move in your life.

Ponder:

What parts of your life and soul are you holding back from Jesus?

Pray:

Jesus, I want You to be the Lord of all my life, not just the parts I want to show You. Help me to open myself up to Your grace and wisdom so that You become a part of all of my life. 

Pray Together:

It is important to honor Jesus. It shows how much we love Him. What are some ways you can show honor to Jesus today?

Copyright 2026 Deanna Bartalini