Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Here are the readings for the 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time, July 27, 2014:

I Kings 3: 5, 7-12
Psalm 119: 57, 72, 76-77, 127-130
Romans 8: 28-30
Matthew 13: 44-52

We're in the midst of the part of Matthew's Gospel where Jesus is using parables to try to convey to his listeners some reality about God and/or those who might follow God.

As you reflect on these readings in preparation for Mass this weekend, maybe this column will also be helpful.

• What is your treasure?
• What have you or might you give up in order to obtain it?

The Catechumenate theme this Sunday is the Kingdom of God.

Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Here are the readings for the 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time,

July 20, 2014:

Wisdom 12: 13, 16-19
Psalm 86: 5-6, 9-10, 15-16
Romans 8: 26-27
Matthew 13: 24-43

The Gospel this week, if we proclaim the entire passage, is long and contains three parables. And we might be justified in wondering what relation those last two (mustard seed and yeast) have to do with the first (weeds and wheat). 
Let's consider the Gospel in the context of the rest of the Scripture readings this week, with their emphasis on the strength, mercy and compassion of God.  An act of mercy and forgiveness on God's part- the One who is Infinitely All That Is Good- would be to God as small as a mustard seed, but to we who receive this compassion, it means the world.  And if we who receive this mercy in turn do our small part to extend mercy to others, the effect balloons and extends well beyond the limits of our comprehension.

• How have you felt God's mercy in your life?
• How have you been compassionate to others?

We will celebrate a Rite of Acceptance and Welcoming at the 5:30pm Mass this Sunday, July 20.

Fifteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Here are the readings for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time,
July 13, 2014:

Isaiah 55: 10-11
Psalm 65: 10-14
Romans 8: 18-23
Matthew 13: 1-23


As you prepare for the Scripture readings this Sunday, I encourage you to click this link and read this reflection by Fr. James Martin, S.J.   These stories seem so long ago and far away- it helps to remember that Jesus was a real person, talking with real people ... and our Lord continues to converse with us today.

Fourteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Here are the readings for the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time, July 6, 2014:
Zechariah 9: 9-10
Psalm 145: 1-2, 8-11, 13-14
Romans 8: 9, 11-13
Matthew 11: 25-30

Biblical scholar John J. Pilch writes that a yoke is "a word used metaphorically to describe those things that control the lives of people."  In that light, this Sunday's Scriptures might cause us to reflect on what controls our lives, either by choice or by circumstance. What are your highest priorities, honestly? Living comfortably, being admired, being in charge, settling scores?  In what ways do these choices actually control you?

Jesus invites us to follow his example, to put on his yoke and let him guide our lives. A well-fitting yoke does not chafe, but actually makes the job easier.  If we have the grace to trust Jesus and accept his way of living, we just might come to a deeper understanding of the Mystery of a God who loves us without limit. It just might change our lives!

Mystagogia will be at 10:45am this Sunday.
Inquiry will meet at 7:00pm this Tuesday.