22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

August 29-30, 2026

  In one way or another, everyone experiences the temptation of the evil one in their lives. Today's readings address such temptations, reminding us that we must always remain close to the Lord in order to overcome them. In the first reading, Jeremiah addresses God in prayer and speaks of a different type of temptation. The Lord has "duped" him into being a prophet and to sow his word. In the second reading, Saint Paul warns the Romans that the values of this world can become negative temptations, and preaches discernment of God's will in order to live a life of surrender to the Lord. In the Gospel, Jesus rejects Peter's words as a seduction, and affirms that following God's calling requires us to walk with Christ in his death and resurrection. This week, I recommend that small groups discuss how our modern world defines success, and the path that the Church invites us to follow in Jesus Christ, especially in regards to the treatment of our enemies. What are the differences between these two ways?

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