11TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIMES 14TH JUNE 2026
God’s relationship with Israel began with a special calling. After rescuing them from slavery in
Egypt, He chose them to be His own people—a holy nation meant to reflect His love and
goodness to the world. To guide them, He gave them His Law, teaching them how to live in
His image and carry out their mission. Yet Israel’s journey was far from perfect. They often
turned away from God, made mistakes, and struggled to remain faithful. Still, God never
abandoned them. He continually called them back, forgave them, and helped them grow.

Their story reflects our own lives: we stumble, fail, and lose our way, but God patiently
invites us to return to Him. Through this long process, Israel ultimately became the people
through whom Jesus, the Savior, entered the world.

Paul then reflects on what Christ has done for humanity. Through Jesus’ death, we have been
reconciled with God and made righteous in His sight. Sin had created a barrier between
humanity and God, but Jesus’ love and sacrifice removed that separation. God’s faithfulness
to His promises is revealed in Christ, and through Him we are welcomed into a restored
relationship with God. While we already experience reconciliation and justification, the
fullness of salvation still lies ahead, when we share completely in Christ’s risen life and glory.

The Gospel shows Jesus’ deep compassion for people. He saw their struggles, healed their
wounds, and brought them hope. Recognizing their need for guidance, He chose twelve
apostles, symbolizing a new Israel, to continue His mission. Their task was not simply to lead
but to serve, bringing God’s peace, healing, and love to others. This mission did not end with
the apostles. Every Christian is called to take part in God’s work, sharing His compassion and
helping those who feel lost, burdened, or forgotten. The reading invites us to reflect on how
we can become active workers in God’s Kingdom, bringing His peace and love into the lives of
those around us.

Fr Jerome Otitoyomi DUKIYA