September 26, 2026 // Saturday of the Twenty-Fifth Week in Ordinary Time // Optional Memorial of Saints Cosmas and Damian, Martyrs

Read the Word // Open your Bible to today’s Gospel: Luke 9:43b-45 

Reflect on the Word // 

My friend’s tone was somber: “Listen, I have some important news.”  She had supported me through the darkest days of my grief and had proven to be the best of friends. Her words were clear, yet I could hardly comprehend what I was hearing. I intuited that her life was about to change and wondered what that meant for me, for our friendship. I had so many questions, but I was afraid to ask.

Similarly, when Jesus says to His disciples, “Pay attention to what I am telling you. The Son of Man is to be handed over to men” (Luke 9:44), they fail to understand the meaning of His words, but are afraid to ask. I wonder, Am I like the disciples who marveled at all His deeds, yet were afraid to admit they didn’t understand the meaning of His words? Do I sense there might be suffering involved regarding something He has spoken to me, so I avoid asking? 

As I ponder the passage, Jesus invites me to remember promises He spoke to me and a painful event that followed. I ask about the meaning of what He had said.  He reassures me that He is still at work and will keep His promise to me, and that I can ask Him anything, trusting without reservation. 

Sister, there is nothing we cannot bring to Jesus. No question is off limits. Even our most deeply hidden doubts and fears lose their power over us in light of His love and grace. As certainly as Jesus died on the Cross and rose again three days later, He will complete the Father’s good work in us. We need not be afraid to ask. 

Relate to the Lord // What questions have you been afraid to ask Jesus? Visit Him in the Eucharist– in the tabernacle or an adoration chapel–and talk to Him.