26th Week in Ordinary Times : Saturday, 3rd October 2026

When the seventy-two disciples returned from their mission, they were elated about their achievements. They had forgotten that it was Jesus Who granted them the authority and power to go out. They felt pride rather than humility. Jesus instructed them further that they were not to measure their faith by what they did – their world feats – no matter how extraordinary. The disciples were to look heavenward and seek the Kingdom of God that they preach. Do we get overly excited about what we do in our families or parishes, and forget that we are working in the Lord’s vineyard?

In his Sunday Angelus prayer on 31 August 2025, Pope Leo spoke about humility as “really freedom from ourselves” since “the Kingdom of God and its righteousness become our real concern.” We are not to just focus on ourselves and our winnings, and forget about our relationship with God. Looking beyond ourselves in humility may be difficult for those with personal struggles.

In the Old Testament, Job provided prophetic witness. Everything he possessed, even family, was lost. Despite cries about the misery and injustice, Job was resolute in his relationship with God. Ultimately, he remained humble before God. Job declared, “For I know that my Redeemer lives and that at the last He will stand upon the earth” (Job 19:25). Do we pray the Lord’s Prayer with humility?

PRAYER Lord Jesus, teach us to walk humbly with You.