Today's Catholic Mass Reading and Gospel Reflection - November 20, 2025

Choosing God in Critical Moments 1st Reading - 1 Macc 2:15-29 Gospel - Lk 19:41-44 In the first reading, we witness the bold courage of Mattathias, who refuses to abandon God’s law even under severe pressure. His zeal inspires others to stand firm, choosing fidelity over compromise. This act of defiance shows that true devotion sometimes demands decisive and costly choices. Mattathias’ example invites us to honor God even when obedience is difficult or unpopular. In the Gospel, Jesus weeps over Jerusalem as He foresees its coming destruction. His tears reveal the depth of His compassion and His longing for the people to recognize God’s offer of peace. Jesus mourns because they missed the moment of grace and failed to understand the path that leads to life. His sorrow reminds us that rejecting God’s invitation has real consequences, both personally and collectively. Together, these readings highlight the tension between human freedom and God’s persistent love. Mattathias shows us the strength of a heart fully committed to God, while Jesus shows the sorrow of a heart longing for people to return to Him. God constantly calls us to recognize His presence and choose His ways, but the decision is ours to make. When we choose faithfulness with courage and openness, we align ourselves with the peace God desires to give. Today, I will choose God even in small decisions that require courage and integrity. I will pay attention to the moments of grace God places before me and respond with openness rather than hesitation. I will reflect on the ways Jesus invites me to deeper peace and allow His compassion to shape my choices. I will seek to live with conviction and tenderness, honoring God in both faithfulness and love.