Three Great Things

Here are some of the main themes in our readings for the 17th Sunday of the Year.

1st Reading – 1st Kings 3:5,7-12

• When asked by God, Solomon prays for an understanding heart to judge the people and distinguish right from wrong.
• God approves of this request because it is selfless and directed toward the good of others.

Psalm 119:57,72,76-77,127-130

• “Lord, I love your commands.”
• Keeping the Lord’s decrees result in kindness and compassion that is more wonderful than gold.

2nd Reading – Romans 8:28-30

• All things work for those who love God and are called according to his purpose.
• Those called by God are conformed to the image of his Son and glorified.

Gospel – Matthew 13:44-52

• Jesus offers three parables to help describe the Kingdom of heaven: treasure in a field; a fine pearl; and a net that is thrown into the sea.
• Point: may we cherish what is truly precious in God’s eyes!

Mass Readings – 17th Sunday of the Year (#109)

***************

Catholic Inspiration Archives

Here are some of the main themes that surface in the Mass readings for the 16th Sunday of the Year.

1st Reading – Wisdom: 12:13,16-19

• God is the source of all might and justice who judges with clemency.
• The Lord teaches the people that those who are just must also be kind and seek repentance.

Psalm – 86:5-6,9-10,15,16

• “Lord, you are good and forgiving.”
• God, who is merciful and gracious, abounds in kindness toward all who plead for help.

2nd Reading – Romans 8:26-27

• The Spirit comes to the aid of our weakness, even when we do not know how to pray.
• God’s will is that the Spirit will intercede for us.

Gospel – Matthew 13:24-43

• Jesus offers three parables: about weeds in a wheat field, a mustard seed, and yeast mixed into wheat flour.
• The Lord then explains to the disciples about the parable of the weeds and the wheat.

Mass Readings – 16th Sunday of the Year (#106)

***************

Catholic Inspiration Archives