October 12, 2026 // Monday of the Twenty-eighth Week in Ordinary Time

Read the Word // Open your Bible to today’s First Reading: Galatians 4:22-24, 26-27, 31–5:1 

Reflect on the Word //

I sat down at the dinner table. The clanging of a spoon against the plate provoked a paternal reprimand at the table, as the toddler attempted to remind us that it was time to actually begin supper. I expressed my gratitude for this beautiful family hosting me as the blessing of the meal was prayed all together. 

The different courses began to be shuffled from one adult to the next. The child playing serenely sat back in confidence of provision as his plate grew fuller. We started to eat and the storytelling began. An announcement was made that it was time for dessert and I asked if I could get a second helping of one of the scrumptious side dishes. The toddler looked at me with a smile on his face and said, “Sure you can, you’re free.”

We all burst out laughing, but the toddler kept straight-faced, confused as to what the adults found to be so funny. He stated matter of factly, “But she is! She’s free to.” Driving away from this beautiful home later that evening, I began to reflect on my day and that hysterically moving experience. The clarity and purity of this child revealed to me something of the certain faith that Paul must have had when he proclaimed, “For freedom, Christ has set us free. So stand firm” (Galatians 5:1). This son was at home in the providence of his family. Anticipating the simple joys to come, he moved in lock-step with the rhythm his parents set out for his literal sustenance. 

The Father wants us to follow the ways of His commands, so that we can delight in the freedom that comes from being His sons and daughters. The Lord delights in us, over us, and through us. He rejoices in our freedom and longs for us to rejoice too and make our desires known in Him. Rooted in the clarity of Jesus being the Way, the Truth, and the Life, we stand firm in the goodness of His love.

Relate to the Lord // Make a list today of the ways in which God has provided for your sustenance–let it move you to live in trust and freedom of heart.