The event in today’s Gospel happens right after Jesus’ comments in yesterday’s Gospel about the narrow gate. A group of Pharisees comes up to Jesus right after his teaching session and tells him he has to leave because he is under a threat of death from the king. These are the same Pharisees whom Jesus is constantly criticizing throughout the Gospel and who eventually plotted against him in the end.
In the face of open, public death threats Jesus has a startling response. He simply says he will continue his mission of healing today, tomorrow, and after. He proclaims he will continue on the way. He refuses to leave the capital, Jerusalem, and its temple or to be silenced. Jesus shows us a profound commitment to constancy to his way, a long, constant, public walk towards the Cross.
Not many of us have ever had to face a death threat regarding our commitment to the Christian way of life. However, we easily abandon the way and take many detours along the way because of much less important forces. We hesitate or abandon the way for simple desires, frustrations, or inconveniences. We prefer to follow cultural norms or practices rather than be seen as different. To maintain our friendships, work, prestige, personal goals or plans, we step away from the Christian way, the way of the Cross.
Today’s Gospel calls us all to a deeper constancy to our Christian life. The joy of being part of the resurrection through baptism, fortifies us to walk with constant hope along the way.
Behold, I cast out demons and I perform healings today and tomorrow,
and on the third day I accomplish my purpose.
Yet I must continue on my way today, tomorrow, and the following day.
Image: Pik Wizard | OCT 28 2025 | Public Domain | author: AI creator.