Sunday July 27, 2014
Seventeenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Lectionary: 109 (NAB Translation) ( Jerusalem Bible Translation)
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Reading 1
1 Kings 3:5, 7-12
This first reading from the first book of Kings is a classic favorite, and it is hopefully familiar to you. Solomon was son of the great King David and had of high expectations to live up to as the King of Israel. When things had gone so well, there was a fear that King Solomon would let everyone down and that the people of Israel would again fall into another pattern of decline. This story shows the high point of the office of King, and shows us a great example of the people of Judah.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalms 119:57, 72, 76-77, 127-128, 129-130
R/ (97a) Lord, I love your commands.
Reading 2
Romans 8:28-30
This week’s second reading picks up again in St. Paul’s letter to the Romans. It’s a very short reading, but it’s so full of rich language that it can be easily misunderstood. The last phrases are each sectioned off because they are intended to show the different levels of progression in our faith journey. Sometimes, we are quick to forget that faith isn’t easy and requires constant progress. Sometimes we fall under the temptation of sloth and think that we’re just fine. Even though St Paul uses the terminology of pre-destined in the translation you will hear at mass, this does not mean that heaven is a guarantee. A call for our holiness, requires a response from us, and Jesus loves us enough to respect that response..
Gospel
Matthew 13:44-52 Or MT 13:44-46
This week’s Gospel from St. Matthew is another that gives 2 options in length. The first version is remarkably short with only 2 verses. Even with its short length, it communicates the central theme of this week’s readings. The extended version also includes a parable of a net that brings in a catch of all kinds. The dramatic statement comes when Jesus compares the throwing away of the unwanted catch to that of the way in which the angels will separate the wicked.
The value of your personal relationship with Jesus is key. It requires that we pay it with all that we have to give, and not hold back. It’s easy and tempting to hold back, but Jesus sees it for what it is – an unwillingness to trust in Him. Let it go, it’s worth the price.
From Bishop Bishop Vásquez
In today’s parable one person happens upon a treasure in the middle of the field. In the other, a merchant finds a pearl after a long search. In both cases, they sell everything they have to get the treasure. This is the way we too should pursue the kingdom of God. Do you pursue the kingdom of God the way you pursue worldly things?
Theme song
Ignite – Soundwave soundwave.cc
Background Music This Week
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