22ND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR C

Theme: He who humbles himself shall be exalted

 

1^st Reading: Sirach, Chapter 3: 17-18, 20, 28-29

Scripture explains that a humble person is appreciated by God, our Creator, and is highly regarded by his fellow men.

 

2^nd Reading: Hebrews, Chapter 12: 18-19, 22-24a

In contrast to the old perceptions about the manifestations of God’s greatness, it is soothing for followers of Christ to know that the God we worship is as approachable as he is affable.

 

Gospel Reading: Luke, Chapter 14:1, 7-14

This scripture is as much a lesson in good social behaviour, with regard to self-esteem, as it is a caution about the need to be humble in order to attain a place of honour at the Lord’s banquet.

21ST SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR C

Theme: Shall all be saved and you be rejected?

 

1^st Reading: Isaiah Chapter 66: 18-21

The Lord assures us that his saving grace will be available to all people all over the world. In fact, he would use some of the Gentiles as instruments to spread the Good News.

 

2^nd Reading: Hebrews Chapter 12: 5-7, 11-13

When the Lord disciplines us, he only intends to lovingly whip us back on the track to salvation.

 

Gospel Reading: Luke, Chapter 13: 22-30

We read that salvation belongs to those who go to Jesus through the narrow door, as well as to people from any part of the world who repent and follow a Christ-like lifestyle.

20TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR C

Theme: Can we stand correction?

 

1^st Reading: Jeremiah, Chapter 38: 4-6, 8-10

Like Jeremiah, those who stand up against the standards of the flesh are at risk of condemnation by the powers that be. God is, however, ever ready to deliver them from their foes.

 

2^nd Reading: Hebrews, Chapter 12:1-4

St. Paul compares our call to be Christians to running a race. We must remain focused on Christ, our coach, and what he went through for us, so we do not give up.

 

Gospel Reading: Luke, Chapter 12:49-53

Jesus says that our decision to follow him might entail giving up even close relationships. All the same, our Saviour demands a clear-cut response from us.

19TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR C

Theme: Faith in God gives hope for a destiny to come.

 

1^st Reading: Wisdom, Chapter 18: 6-9

The night of the Exodus, or the night of our freedom from bondage from sin, was known by our ancestors in the faith long ago. The same faith gives us hope for salvation.

 

2^nd Reading: Hebrews, Chapter 11: 1-2, 8-19

Like Abraham, our journey of faith would become meaningful when we accept the simple truth that God is trustworthy.

 

Gospel Reading: Luke, Chapter 12:32-48

Waiting for the Lord with unwavering faith would ensure us a place of honour in his presence when he comes again.

18TH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME YEAR C

Theme: What makes life meaningful?

 

1^st Reading: Ecclesiastes, Chapter 1: 2 and Chapter 2: 21-23

The writer of this scripture cautions that all our struggles, all our anxieties and concerns are of no lasting value if we leave God out of the equation.

 

2^nd Reading: Colossians, Chapter 3:1- 5, 9 - 11

Our new life as Christians must be lived continually in the company of Christ. This way, our past behaviours will be put to death, and then we can really grow to be like Christ.

 

Gospel Reading: Luke, Chapter 12: 13-21

The parable of the rich fool teaches that it is pointless to be complacent with our achievements. God should be the foundation of our well-being.