At first glance, the opening verses of the Gospel seem to narrate Jesus as being too much demanding. It would then be easy to hastily conclude that such words would discourage those who are still unsure, considering the fact that Jesus gives both a warning and an assurance. But the Gospel by no means rejects or condemns the love being given to one’s parents and offspring. Jesus simply makes it clear that in loving and following him, one cannot love anything and anyone more than him. In verse 38, there is a mention of the cross in relation to being worthy of Jesus. To follow Christ means to walk the paths he has taken, no matter how difficult, while carrying one’s own cross. The cross is a nonnegotiable part of following Jesus. We are thus given the assurance that following Christ will earn us rewards and delights. By asking that he be loved more than anyone and anything else, Jesus effectively sends a clear message that he alone is the ultimate good, and that everything else that is good will simply follow after.

In the second part of Christ’s discourse (verses 40 until 42), he makes known the consequences for those who would do favors and good deeds toward him and his disciples on account of him. There are rewards that come in exchange for every good deed, even without us asking or soliciting. Those who follow Christ and even those who show kindness to those who serve him are assured of receiving their just rewards. By providing us with these assurances and consolations, Jesus makes it clear that while discipleship entails big sacrifices, the rewards that await will be worth everything.

~ FRA. ROBERT FRANCIS MA. DUCADO, OSM

From this Sunday’s Gospel, I was deeply drawn to the words of Jesus in Matthew 10:38: “Whoever does not take up his cross and follow after me is not worthy of me.”

This passage reminds me that discipleship is both a calling and a commitment. To follow Christ is not only about receiving blessings, but also about embracing sacrifices, suffering, and surrender. Jesus calls His disciples to love Him above all else, to remain faithful even when the journey becomes difficult, and to carry the cross with courage and trust.

Often, when trials come, our first response is fear, questioning, and even complaining. We ask God, “Why is this happening?” or “Why must this be so painful?” It is difficult to embrace suffering, especially when we do not understand its purpose.

I have experienced many difficulties in life, and I thought I had already carried my share of the cross. Yet last year, in the middle of 2026, I received news that became another heavy burden for me and my son. It was a challenge that was painful, that I no longer knew how we could move forward. There were moments when everything felt overwhelming, and all I could do was hold on to
God’s promises.

In those moments, I realized that faith does not always mean understanding everything. Sometimes, faith means surrender. It means letting go of the need to control, accepting uncertainty, and trusting the Lord more deeply.

The Gospel also reminds us that discipleship carries a promise of reward. Jesus assures us that no act of love, sacrifice, or faithfulness goes unnoticed before God. Even the smallest offering done with love; a simple act of kindness or a cup of water given to someone in need, has value in His eyes. The reward may not always come in the way we expect, but God sees every hidden sacrifice and honors every faithful heart.

Carrying the cross is not about relying on our own strength. It is by His grace that we continue, by His mercy that we endure, and by His love that we find hope. In every cross we carry, Christ walks with us.

~ LENG

PRAYER TO START THE WEEK
Jesus, in a world full of distractions and competing priorities, help me keep You at the center of my life. Give me the courage to choose what is right, even when it is difficult or unpopular, and to trust You with my future. Teach me to show kindness in the little things, knowing that no act of love is too small in Your eyes. Amen.

Originally published in the Neo Jeremiah Voice of the Young Prophet Newsletter (June 28, 2026 issue).