Readings at USCCB.org

Theme: “Take Courage—God Is With You”

In today’s first reading from the prophet Haggai, we hear a message of encouragement to a people who feel disheartened. The temple, once glorious, now lies in ruins. The people look at it and feel defeated. But God speaks through Haggai: “Take courage… and work! For I am with you.” And then comes the promise: “Greater will be the future glory of this house than the former… and in this place I will give you peace.”

This is not just about a building. It’s about the human heart. It’s about our lives when they feel broken, diminished, or forgotten. God sees the ruins—and He sees the potential. He doesn’t say, “Look how far you’ve fallen.” He says, “Look how far I will raise you.”

💬 In the Gospel, Jesus asks his disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” Peter responds, “The Christ of God.” But Jesus immediately tells them not to speak of it yet. Why? Because they still don’t understand what kind of Messiah He is. He’s not coming to conquer with swords, but to serve and to suffer. “The Son of Man must suffer greatly,” He says.

This pairing of readings—Haggai’s call to rebuild and Jesus’ call to follow Him through suffering—reminds us that renewal often comes through struggle. Glory is born from perseverance.

🛠️ Real-Life Reflections

Let me share a story. A friend of mine, Maria, lost her job during the pandemic. She had worked for the same company for 15 years. When she was let go, she felt like the temple in ruins—her confidence shattered, her purpose unclear. But she didn’t give up. She took courage. She enrolled in a training program, learned new skills, and eventually started her own small business. Today, she says, “I never imagined this would be my life—but it’s better than before.”

Her story echoes God’s promise: “Greater will be the future glory.”

Or think of someone recovering from addiction. The road is long, the setbacks are real. But each step forward is a brick in the rebuilding of the temple. And God says, “My Spirit continues in your midst; do not fear.”

🙏 Takeaway

So today, ask yourself: What part of your life feels like ruins? Is it a relationship, a dream, your faith? Hear God’s voice: “Take courage… and work! For I am with you.”

And when Jesus asks, “Who do you say that I am?” may we answer not just with words, but with lives that reflect His love, His service, and His hope.