Sunday, July 19, 2026, is the 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time. Mass readings: Wisdom 12:13, 16-19; Psalm 86:5-6, 9-10, 15-16; Romans 8:26-27; Matthew 13:24-43 or Matthew 13:24-30.

The Parable of the Wheat and Tares provides guidance for Catholic life, warning of how the enemy sows weeds. 

Beware of moral slumber, for we have an enemy who hates us: Satan, who has plentiful moves, designs, tactics and tools. We need the grace to rebuke him at every turn.

Along the way, fraternal correction is essential; it is a work of charity and must be marked by patience and love. People need time to repent. 

Also, zeal must be balanced with patience.There is a judgment day, but not yet. On that day, those who have sinned or led others to sin and have not repented are going to have to answer to the Lord.

We must get ready, and we must help others get ready, for Judgment Day, when every knee will bend to God. All of us must render an account. 

As Jesus explains:

“He who sows good seed is the Son of Man; the field is the world, the good seed the children of the kingdom. The weeds are the children of the evil one, and the enemy who sows them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels. Just as weeds are collected and burned [up] with fire, so will it be at the end of the age. The Son of Man will send his angels, and they will collect out of his kingdom all who cause others to sin and all evildoers. They will throw them into the fiery furnace, where there will be wailing and grinding of teeth. Then the righteous will shine like the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Whoever has ears ought to hear.”

This guide is adapted from a past post.