Sixteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Lectionary: 107 (NAB Translation)
Reading 1
Jeremiah 23:1-6
This week’s first reading from the prophet Jeremiah is a call out of leaders in the church. God has given us many different forms of leadership in the Church. Any form of shepherding requires a closeness with the Lord that helps to keep the sheep from scattering.
If any Christian ever takes on leadership with any unfaithful intentions, this message from Jeremiah is a stern warning. Even if we have ever experienced a bad shepherd, we can trust in the Lord that He will never abandon His people. There will be a day when any wrong-doing will be corrected.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 23:1-3, 3-4, 5, 6
- (1) The Lord is my shepherd; there is nothing I shall want.
Reading 2
Ephesians 2:13-18
We continue in the second reading through St Paul’s letter to the Ephesians. In this section, he speaks of the hope of unity in Him regardless of where we came from. Being known as God’s people was exclusive to the Jews in the Old Testament, but Jesus came to abolish this restriction so that the Gentiles could be included in salvation. There is no room for questions of this inclusively, and we can be certain that there is hope for all to come into Christ.
Alleluia
John 10:27
- Alleluia, alleluia.
My sheep hear my voice, says the Lord; I know them, and they follow me.
Gospel
Mark 6:30-34
This week’s Gospel from St Mark is a continuation of last week’s reading. After Jesus sent out the Apostles two by two, He asks them to come away with Him to reflect on the work they had done. Even when Jesus wanted to take a break, the people came to find Him, and His heart was moved for them enough to stop to teach them.
In confusing times, Jesus desires to give you all that you need to fulfill your hunger for Truth. Continue to seek and ask Him for guidance, and He will provide wisdom through His Church. He will never abandon us.
Gospel Meditation from Bishop Vásquez
Reflection question
In today’s Gospel Jesus urges the disciples to “come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” We all need spiritual refreshment from time to time. How long has it been since you’ve been on a retreat? Why not make plans to attend one in the coming months?
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