Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time – Year C
Reading 1 WIS 18:6-9
This week’s first reading comes from a very Catholic book. The book of wisdom comes from what is sometimes referred to as the Apocrypha, but we Catholics just say that it is part of the canon of scripture. You won’t find it in most non-Catholic Bibles.
This book was written approximately one century before the Incarnation of Jesus. At this time there were many that had already lost hope in the coming of the messiah, so the writer of the book of Wisdom continues his common theme of hope.
He tries to remind everyone that God is faithful. He reminds the people of God that He has provided before as he did in the reading for the Hebrews and we can be confident that He will remember His promises.
Responsorial Psalm PS 33:1, 12, 18-19, 20-22
Blessed the people the Lord has chosen to be his own.
Reading 2 HEB 11:1-2, 8-19 or HEB 11:1-2, 8-12
This Sunday’s second reading has two options for length, so the readings you hear at mass may include an additional 7 verses at the end than what you just heard.
For the next four weeks, we will be hearing from the letter to the Hebrews. It’s a beautiful and rich letter that also curiously comes from an unknown author.
This reading continues the theme of the first, remember that God is faithful. Just like Moses and the Hebrews in the desert, Abraham was also a great example of fidelity in times when it wasn’t easy to believe or trust.
Fear is always going to threaten our trust in God, it can be terrifying to realize we’re not in control. Faith shows us that we can trust without fear, for our God is good. His love wills the absolute best for us and ultimately desires eternity with Him in heaven.
Gospel LK 12:32-48 or LK 12:35-40
This Gospel may also include an additional 3 verses before and 8 verses after what you just heard.
Be ready – that is the theme of this week’s Gospel.
This readiness shouldn’t come out of fear of what the extended reading refers to as a reserved place for the unfaithful, but rather from an openness to God’s grace. Vigilance is necessary because every day that passes is a day closer, but that shouldn’t bring fear. We hope and long for that day of the wedding feast when we get to be reunited with the Bridegroom, Jesus.
Question for further reflection:
Where am I holding tight to something that I can release to the care of the Lord? How can I learn to trust God better.
O Jesus of Divine Mercy, we Trust in you.
Reflection done by Cristobal Almanza – @SoulPainter
Theme song – Ignite – Soundwave soundwave.cc
Background music
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