Gospel: August 16, 2026

August 16, 2026 (Sunday)

20th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Psalter: Week 4 (Green)

Ps 67:2-3, 5, 6, 8 (4)

O God, let all the nations praise you!

1st Reading: Isaiah 56:1, 6-7

2nd Reading: Romans 11:13-15, 29-32

Gospel: Matthew 15:21-28

Leaving that place, Jesus withdrew to the region of Tyre and Sidon. A Canaanite woman from the area, came and cried out, “Lord, Son of David, have pity on me! My daughter is tormented by a demon.”

But Jesus did not answer her, not even a word. So his disciples approached him and said, “Send her away! See how she is shouting after us.” Then Jesus said to her, “I was sent only to the lost sheep of the nation of Israel.” But the woman was already kneeling before Jesus, and said, “Sir, help me!” Jesus answered, “It is not right to take the bread from the children and throw it to puppies.” The woman replied, “That is true, sir, but even puppies eat the crumbs which fall from their master’s table.”

Then Jesus said, “Woman, how great is your faith! Let it be as you wish.” And her daughter was healed at that moment.

Lectio Divina:

All are equally called to enter God’s kingdom.

Read: In the first reading, the prophet Isaiah urges those who wish to live according to God’s word and covenant, concluding with the theme of universal salvation. Meanwhile, Paul, in the second reading, exhorts the non-Jews for their faith in the Lord, continuing to hope that the Jews will receive God’s mercy in due time. In the gospel, we encounter the story of the Canaanite woman whom Jesus initially ignored, but through her persistence and faith, she was granted what she asked for.

Reflect: The Canaanite woman in the gospel shows courage and determination as she takes on Jesus and his all-Jewish and all-male disciples. Despite the initial rejection and insult, she does not give up. Focusing on her goal, she makes it. Jesus grants her request and heals her daughter. Her example teaches us not to be afraid and to challenge prejudice and narrow-mindedness. In this story, Jesus also tells us that there is no discrimination in God’s eyes. Even those we consider outside our group are loved by God. He loves every person and offers His salvation to everyone: Jews or Gentiles, women or men, rich or poor, young or old. All are equally called to enter God’s kingdom.

Pray: Let us pray for those on the outskirts and beyond the official Church ministry.

Act: Consider visiting a prison or a home for abandoned children to share God’s love with them through you.

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