Daily Gospel Reflection for August 11, 2025

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

In today’s reading, Jesus addresses His disciples and predicts His death a second time. Jesus says to them,

“The Son of Man is to be handed over to men, and they will kill him, and he will be raised on the third day. And they were overwhelmed with grief."

Matthew 17:22-23

When we think of Christianity, we often think of joy, yet in this passage we see the disciples display admirable grief.

The Gospel provides us with so much hope, but in this passage, the events of Jesus' salvific sacrifice had not yet occurred. While it may seem from a post-crucifixion point of view that the disciples lacked faith in this moment, their immediate grief instead portrays their acceptance of God’s will for Jesus Christ. The first time Jesus predicted His death, it was met with more resistance.

Peter famously objected, causing Jesus to exclaim, “Get behind me, Satan.” But this time, He said He would be killed and all of the disciples took Him at His word. I imagine Peter’s objection was not intended as a challenge so much as an inability to imagine God’s plan. Jesus predicting His death numerous times was a merciful way to prepare the hearts of men for the sacrifice the Savior made to overcome the grave.

Ponder:

Can you think of a time you or someone you know displayed an admirable grief in response to the will of God?

Pray:

O God, may our trust in You abound, even and especially where understanding lacks. May we always remember that You are king and that we both grieve and sing for joy at Your discretion, for the greater good.

CM DGR daily sq