Jesus talks about “Red Flags”

Reflection Date: February 17, 2026 Tuesday of the Sixth Week in Ordinary Time
Daily Readings: James 1:12-18, Mark 8:14-21

Children of God: In modern times, we often use the phrase “red flags.” 

It refers to warning signs that something is wrong beneath the surface. 

Red flags appear in relationships, work environments, and even personal habits. 

They signal attitudes or behaviors that may later cause harm. 

Many people ignore red flags because they seem small or inconvenient. Others notice them but choose to explain them away. 

Over time, these ignored signs grow into serious problems. 

Jesus also spoke about red flags, though in a subtle and symbolic way. 

He warned his disciples about the leaven of the Pharisees. He also warned them about the leaven of Herod. 

A leaven is a substance, like yeast, that is mixed into dough to make it rise. 

But Jesus used leaven to describe attitudes or teachings that, though small at first, could shape a person or a community for good or for harm.

These leavens represented hidden influences that slowly corrupt faith and integrity.

What are our inspirations for today?

First, small red flags ignored today become big-time problems and failures tomorrow.

Jesus warned the disciples about the leaven of the Pharisees and Herod while they were worried about lacking bread (Mark 8:15). 

The warning was not about food but about influence. 

The Pharisees’ leaven showed itself in outward religiosity without inner conversion. They knew the law but failed to love people. 

This was a red flag because this is faith without humility.

Today, we are invited to notice the small compromises we allow in our lives. 

We excuse dishonesty, pride, or indifference because they seem minor. 

Over time, these attitudes reshape our character. 

Recognizing red flags early protects the integrity of our discipleship.

Second, forgetting God’s works is another red flag.

Jesus reminded the disciples of the feeding of the five thousand and the four thousand (Mark 8:19-20). 

They had witnessed abundance, yet they panicked over scarcity. 

Jesus questioned their understanding and memory. 

Forgetfulness became another red flag.

They had seen miracles, yet they still doubted. 

We are invited to remember how God has already provided for us. 

Let us count our blessings! 

Faith grows stronger when memory and trust work together.

Children of God: Red flags appear not to condemn us but to guide us. We are called to examine the influences shaping our values. 

We are invited to remember God’s faithfulness in moments of doubt. 

Awareness helps us choose wisely. 

Humility keeps us open to correction. 

Memory keeps us rooted in trust.