Daily Catholic Lectio
Monday, 14 July ‘25
Fifteenth Week in Ordinary Time – Monday
Exodus 1:8–14, 22. Matthew 10:34–11:1
A Call to Costly Discipleship
The words of Jesus in today’s Gospel may startle us: “Do not think that I have come to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.” (Matt 10:34) How can Jesus—the one we call the Prince of Peace—say such a thing? What does He mean by bringing a sword?
Let us explore this in the light of today’s readings and understand what it means to follow Jesus with clarity, courage, and commitment.
1. The Sword is Not Violence, But a Decision
Jesus is not encouraging hatred or war. The “sword” He brings is not that of a soldier, but like the blade of a surgeon. It may cut, but it cuts to heal. His Word confronts, divides, and demands a decision.
The Gospel forces us to choose: Will you put God first, or comfort first? It may divide us from old habits, unhealthy relationships, or even family members who reject the truth. Jesus does not glorify division—but He warns us: true discipleship will cost us something. It may cost our popularity, comfort, even peace in our homes. But in exchange, we gain union with God.
2. Exodus: When Life Feels Out of Our Hands
In the first reading, the Israelites grow in number and strength. But a new Pharaoh rises—one who does not remember Joseph. He feels threatened and begins to oppress God’s people.
First, through hard labour. Then, by commanding the death of male children. And finally, by making the children be thrown into the Nile.
No matter how powerful someone may be—like Joseph in Egypt—they will eventually be forgotten. No one is indispensable. Sometimes our lives seem ruled not by God, but by systems, leaders, or powers we cannot control. This can lead to fear or despair. But even in such moments, God is still present. The God who delivered the Israelites is the same God who walks with us.
3. Following Jesus Causes Division—but Brings Healing
In the Gospel, Jesus speaks of division—not because He wants to divide families, but because the truth divides.
He says: A disciple is not above the master. If I faced rejection, you will too. But whoever receives you, receives Me—and whoever receives Me, receives the One who sent Me.
Following Jesus might put us in tension with: Our family traditions, Our social status, Even our sense of comfort. Yet in choosing Jesus first, we find our true identity and purpose.
4. You are not Indispensable—But You Are Chosen
The Pharaoh forgot Joseph. And one day, even our name may be forgotten in this world.
But here is the Good News: God has not forgotten you. You are not indispensable to the world—but you are irreplaceable in God’s heart. Even when others misuse power, control systems, or plan evil—God is working quietly and powerfully to save, protect, and raise His people.
5. Jesus Must Come First
At the heart of the Gospel is this: “Whoever loves father or mother more than Me is not worthy of Me.” “Whoever does not take up his cross and follow Me is not worthy of Me.” “Whoever loses his life for My sake will find it.”
Discipleship is not a matter of convenience. It is a call to total surrender. Jesus must not be one of our priorities. He must be the first.
6. God’s Name is Our Help
Today’s Psalm (Psalm 124) sings: “Our help is in the name of the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” This name is not just a word. It is God’s presence. His name is power, protection, and peace. Even when no one else stands by us, the name of the Lord stands with us.
Final Reflection
Today’s readings invite us to deep and courageous discipleship. Jesus calls us to: Place Him first—even above family, culture, or comfort. Accept the cost of following Him. Trust that even when others forget us or mistreat us, God remembers, restores, and redeems.
The sword Jesus brings is not to destroy, but to cut away everything that keeps us from loving God fully. If we have the courage to carry our cross, we will also receive the joy of the crown.
May the name of the Lord be your strength, your help, and your hope—today and always.
Fr. Yesu Karunanidhi
Archdiocese of Madurai
Missionary of Mercy
Yesu Karunanidhi 
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