Scripture Reflection - February 15, 2026

Sixth Sunday of Ordinary Time

First Reading: Sirach 15:15-20

Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 2:6-10

Gospel: Matthew 5:17-37

Today’s first reading from Sirach speaks of the commandments and their power to save. Also noted in this reading is the significance of choice, the gift of our free will. God wishes all good things for us and offers us guidance in achieving our best through the Ten Commandments. He does not force our obedience, but offers a warning¬—paraphrased simply: what you choose will be given you. This reading also reminds us that God will never ask us to act unjustly, nor will he give license to sin. We are secure, then, in knowing God’s will for us is always holy and good.

The second reading from Paul speaks of God’s wisdom made manifest through the Spirit. Paul offers some powerful words: “for the Spirit scrutinizes everything even the depths of God.” Knowing this gives us cause, when seeking the wisdom of others, to always bring their words or advice to the Holy Spirit for confirmation.

In Matthew’s gospel today, Jesus says,

“Do not think that I have come to abolish the law… I have come not to abolish but to fulfill.” He clarifies that every aspect, every subtlety of his commandments is meant to be observed, not only the major transgressions, like killing and adultery, but the smaller ones too, such as anger, grudge-holding, or less-than-honorable thoughts or intentions toward others. These somewhat minor infractions can be harmful to our spiritual condition and to our relationship with God as well.

Jesus also speaks about honoring our commitments, “Make good to the Lord all that you vow. Do not take false oath.”

Then Jesus finishes with, “Let your ‘yes’ mean ‘yes’ and your ‘no’ mean ‘no’.”

All instruction that comes to us through these readings is meant for our good. I recall his words from an earlier reading, “what you choose will be given you”. Living with broken promises, watered-down vows, and weak expressions of the things we affirm or negate in our lives is not a place I want to exist in. Righteous living begets righteous outcomes, and the Ten Commandments are our path to those outcomes. Aspiring to higher ground is a worthy goal, and God knows we will fall short, but the desire for and the effort toward that higher ground, I believe, pleases God in itself.

Hearing the words of today’s readings hopefully will inspire us, in the upcoming Lenten season, to pay attention to the smaller aspects of God’s law, because big or small, what we choose will be given to us.

Peggy Roach, Associate