Gospel for February 15 2026 – Matthew 5:17-37
Gospel Reflections for February 15 2026
Say yes when you mean yes…
Do people always believe you when you speak? I hope so. That is the goal Our Lord has for you in today’s Gospel.
I remember years ago I was driving somewhere when I suddenly saw a red light in my rear-view mirror. Of course, I pulled over and the Officer walked up to my window and said that I had been …speeding! I said, “Officer, I can assure that I was not speeding at all.”
The Officer then said, “I am so terribly sorry! This was an unnecessary stop and I deeply apologize. Please continue on your way with all my good wishes for your journey!”
Okay, I admit this dialogue did not happen, and I actually did get a ticket …along with a valuable lesson about driving safely.
However, wouldn’t it be wonderful if people always believed everything you said? How great if you had a reputation for always speaking honestly and truthfully so that in any event people would automatically trust your every word …even Officers!
Jesus said some powerful words about the Old Testament in today’s Gospel that would have shocked his audience. There were no more important words for His audience than the verses in the Old Testament. Yet Jesus clearly declares that only He is the true interpreter of their meaning.
Jesus repeatedly affirms His authority to speak about these verses, “You have read this verse …but what I tell you is this…”
Jesus affirms He has the authority to interpret all of scripture. His disciples were not shocked because they knew He always spoke honestly and truthfully.
Think about how often people rely on your word today. I will meet you at 1pm. I will pick up the kids at 3pm. I will complete this project by Friday. Life works to the extent that you keep your word.
The Season of Lent begins this week on Ash Wednesday, a time when you might consider making a Lenten promise, perhaps giving up this or that behavior, or adding a great new event in your schedule like The University Series beginning Thursday. Pre-registration closes at midnight on Monday.
Only make a resolution that you know that you can keep. That way, people will always respect your word!
God Bless!
Fr. Dave
Thank you Father,
This Gospel reflection today was so powerful for me. I hope I have a chance to discuss it with you sometime.
Great point of view.
Thanks
I always look forward to questions!
We ae blessed in Father Michael Carcerano who has now gone to his eternal reward. We thank God for this most wonderful friend on earth, who now intercedes for all of us in Heaven. Deo Gratias.
Madeleine Sorensen
Yes, I was sad to hear of his passing.