Today’s Reflection
Gospel: Matthew 11: 20-24
July 15, 2025 | Tuesday

Today’s Gospel

Then Jesus began to denounce the cities in which he had performed most of his miracles, because the people there did not change their ways. “Alas for you Chorazin and Bethsaida! If the miracles worked in you had taken place in Tyre and Sidon, the people there would have repented long ago in sackcloth and ashes. But I assure you, for Tyre and Sidon; it will be more bearable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you. And you, Capernaum, will you be lifted up to heaven? You will be thrown down to the place of the dead! For if the miracles which were performed in you had been performed in Sodom, it would still be there today! But I tell you, it will be more bearable for Sodom on the day of judgment than for you.”

Today’s Reflection

In the gospel reading today, Jesus denounces the cities where “he had performed most of his miracles”–“Alas for your Chorazin and Bethsaida

. . . and you Capernaum . . . will be thrown down to the place of the dead.”Tyre, Sidon, and Sodom are cities known for wickedness, sinfulness, and immorality. What could have been the sins or faults of the people of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum that are far worse than these other cities that could draw the reproach, reproval, and reprimand of Jesus?

The presence of the Messiah had blessed Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum. They had heard the Good News and experienced or witnessed the wonderful works that Jesus did for them. They were far more blessed than those who never had the opportunity to be with the Lord. Witnessing His miracles and exercise of divine powers should have elicited their faith and trust in Him, but they remained indifferent and skeptical. They did not drive Jesus away. They did not abuse or insult Him. They did not make attempts to kill or harm Him. They simply ignored or dismissed what He did for them. In essence, they did nothing, and that, too, is a sin.

Of course, Jesus was upset by the hardness of their hearts. Yet, His reaction was muted. “Alas” is not primarily a word of indignation or ire but one of sorrowful pity, one not arising from wrathful disapproval but from a grief- stricken heart. Every action or word of Jesus is aimed to bring about a change of heart. Perhaps the reproach, coupled with the threat of punishment, could lead them to repent and transform their lives.

Having been endowed with free will, let us always remember that we are responsible for all our actions and inactions. Let us reflect with gratitude on the many graces and gifts God has given us and make them the wellspring of deepening our faith and obedience to His will.

/Vulnerasti, 2025