January 29, 2026 // Thursday of the Third Week in Ordinary Time

Read the Word // Open your Bible to today’s Gospel: Mark 4:21-25

Reflect on the Word // 

From time to time, an invisible, impassable chasm opens up between my husband and me, a rift in connection that feels impossible to mend. Sometimes it can take us days to repair. It usually begins with a small miscommunication, then hurt feelings, then botched attempts to repair, and bewildered silence or smoldering anger at being misunderstood or feeling unloved. 

It takes time and humility to build reliable bridges of reconciliation after a conflict. There are differences in love languages and communication styles. And it takes a lot of vulnerability to let go of the fear that if I choose to love humbly and sacrificially, my husband might not respond in kind. I worry that I will disappear, that my needs won't be met, that I might run out of love.

When I act this way, I forget that the Source of love is not my husband, but Jesus. When I fear that the sacrifice of loving my husband and children well and abundantly might use me up, I can look at the Cross. My Savior poured out his life for love, and I can’t outdo Him in generosity. I can also trust His promises. Jesus says in today’s Gospel that “the measure with which you measure will be measured out to you, and still more will be given” (Mark 4:24).

When we fear that we won’t have enough love to give to our families and others in our lives, instead of rationing it carefully, we need to grab a bigger bucket and head to the Cross. We need to pour and give more freely, trusting that God will provide for us and them. 

Relate to the Lord // Where have you been battling fear? Share it honestly with Jesus today so He can give you His peace.