Gospel for October 26 2025 – Luke 18:9-14
Gospel Reflections for October 26 2025
That first look in the mirror
This is a Gospel about seeing yourself honestly. Good advice for everyone, even the Dodgers as they play in the World Series!
For example, you get up in the morning, and see your face in the bathroom mirror. What is that like?
You are without your work clothes, or makeup, or even much awake. That may be all the motivation you need to get yourself ready!
The Tax Collector in today’s Gospel presents himself to God exactly as he is, warts and all. He doesn’t cover anything up or pretend he is someone he is not. The Pharisee is different. He presents a false picture to God, inflating his accomplishments and exaggerating his virtues.
These two men reveal the difference between good and bad mental health. Knowing who you are truthfully, is the mark of good mental health. Pretending to be someone you are not is a prescription for problems, conflicts …and relationships that quickly go south.
The early Christians knew this well. They knew Our Lord wanted honesty about ourselves no matter what. They decided to add a moment of self-reflection at the beginning of every Mass, which we celebrate even today, called the Penitential Rite.
Every Mass begins with the priest inviting you to call to mind your sins. That is not a negative experience but rather an exercise in healthy and honest self-appraisal. Good baseball teams honestly recognize their areas of needed improvement as well. That is how championship teams win.
The priest is saying, Before you hear the scriptures and receive the Eucharist, present yourselves to God as you honestly are. God looks down from heaven and says in response, I already know all about you, but now I am glad you know it too! Now we can have an honest relationship!
The early Church also decided that you would admit your true self …while standing. You do not kneel in submission or stand on tip toes to seem taller. You stand …at your own true height …before God …just as you are.
You will never be perfect, but you can always be honest. His unconditional love provides the courage you need to do just that.
Every Mass invites you to hold up a mirror in which you can see your own self as you truly are. That is a very healthy thing to do!
God Bless!
Fr. Dave
Your description of what occurs during Mass is refreshing to the soul. I aiways enjoy what some think of frequent Mass attendance that only Holy People do that. I tell them that the first thing we admit during Mass is that we are Sinners . We are there to improve our condition and seek help in living life the way we should. To receive the body and blood of Jesus Christ and enjoy the relationship with our fellow believers in the words of Scripture. Giving time in worship and Prayer to Our Creator..
Then I invite them to join us. Mass is a joyfull experience for me and one I enjoy sharing with others.
you are doing great apostolic work!
Dear Father Dave,
The first look in the mirror, and at my age any look in the mirror is definitely an eye opener. Spots and all.
I’m so grateful for the gift of faith and for the subsequent gift of prayer. 🙏
Thank you for your weekly reflections. They are always thought provoking.
God bless.
Kathleen
Yes, our spiritual life radiates our inner journey of faith and prayer.
well said.