October 21, 2026

The Communal Rule of Love

Felipe E. Rojas Cortés | Read 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8

(Image by: Pixabay)

Lectionary Week

October 19–25, 2026

Scripture Overview

In the passages for this week, we observe different perspectives on how to understand the image of God within the dynamics of communities. Deuteronomy emphasizes a figure of promise for the social development of a nation. The psalmist reminds us of God’s care for the people throughout history. The letter to the Thessalonians presents us with the purpose of being part of and building a community. And Matthew’s Gospel gives us essential foundations and guidelines that we must uphold in our own contexts and social world. Through these readings we are able to reflect on our roles and functions in the communities to which we belong.

Questions and Suggestions for Reflection

Read Deuteronomy 34:1-12. How does God inspire and challenge you to keep going despite the adversities of life?
Read Psalm 90:1-6, 13-17. How can you become the image of God who is a refuge for the afflicted, the oppressed, and the brokenhearted?
Read 1 Thessalonians 2:1-8. How can you contribute to God’s work in our communities? How do you create spaces for listening, accompaniment, and fraternity?
Read Matthew 22:34-46. How do you embody love for God and neighbor? What actions are necessary today to generate examples that reflect that love?

Respond by posting a prayer.

Often we frame the ideals of a society in ways that support the common good: respect, justice, fraternity, tolerance, and inclusion, among many others. But these ideals cannot be only theories; they must be enacted—lived into—by those in the community in order for them to truly support the community as...

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God, help us to commit ourselves to our communities and our surroundings so that we may bear witness to our call to be servants of the most vulnerable and oppressed. Amen.

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