A Love That Puts Christ First
Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Matthew 10:37–42
Jesus’ admonition in the Gospel against loving family members before him can sound startling at first. Jesus isn’t telling us to love our families less—he’s inviting us to love him first. When Christ is at the center of our hearts, every other relationship becomes stronger, healthier, and more rooted in real love. Putting Jesus first doesn’t diminish our love for others; it purifies it.
Jesus also speaks of taking up our cross. This isn’t about seeking suffering—it’s about choosing faithfulness even when it costs us something. Every day we face small crosses: choosing patience when we’re frustrated, forgiveness when we’re hurt, generosity when we’re tired, or integrity when it’s inconvenient. These are the quiet, hidden ways we follow Christ.
Then Jesus shifts to something beautifully simple: the reward for offering even “a cup of cold water” to one of his little ones. In God’s eyes, no act of kindness is too small. A gentle word, a listening ear, a moment of compassion—these become holy when done in Jesus' name. The Gospel reminds us that discipleship isn’t only about big sacrifices; it’s also about the small, daily choices to love.
At its heart, this passage invites us to reorder our lives so that Christ is our foundation, our compass, and our deepest love. When we do that, our lives become a blessing to others in ways we may never fully see.
You are invited to reflect about what “small crosses” in your daily life might Jesus be inviting you to carry with greater patience or trust? How can you make simple acts of kindness—your “cup of cold water”—a more intentional part of your discipleship this week?
Lord Jesus,
help me to love you above all things,
so that every other love in my life
may be strengthened and renewed.
Give me courage to carry my daily crosses with faith,
and open my eyes to the small opportunities
to serve others with kindness.
May my life reflect your love in simple,
quiet, and generous ways.
Amen.
This reflection was prepared with the assistance of CoPilot.