17 August 2025 - Only By Grace Reflections

#CatholicFaith #DailyReflection #OnlyByGraceReflections #CouplesForChrist

NOTE: Please click the Subscribe key on YouTube and press the black notification bell to receive the daily reflections. Or, open in YouTube for easy access. View and Like. Thank you.

Topic: Am I on fire for God—even when no one is watching? (17 August 2025 - Only By Grace Reflections)

First Reading: Jeremiah 38:4-6, 8-10
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 40:2, 3, 4, 18
Second Reading: Hebrews 12:1-4
Alleluia: John 10:27
Gospel: Luke 12:49-53

In today’s Gospel, Luke 12:49–53, Jesus calls us to be on fire for God—even when no one is watching. Jesus says “I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing!” (Luke 12:49)

This is not a fire of destruction, but a fire of love—a purifying flame of the Holy Spirit, a refining heat that burns away our selfishness and fear. Jesus warns that following Him may cause division, even in our families—not because He wants to tear us apart, but because choosing Him means making hard decisions.

Sometimes saying yes to God means saying no to comfort, culture, or even family expectations. We cannot stay lukewarm. Either Christ sets us ablaze, or we slowly grow cold to His call.