Here are some of the major themes running through the readings for this 23rd Sunday of the Year.

1st Reading – Isaiah 35:4-7a

• Be strong! Fear not! God comes with power and authority to save.
• People will be healed and nature itself will be renewed.

Psalm – 146:7-10

• “Praise the Lord, my soul!”
• God heals the sick and raises up the lowly.

2nd Reading – James 2:1-5

• Exhortation to show no partiality, especially based on wealth or power.
• The example used speaks just as loudly today!

Gospel – Mark 7:31-37

• People bring a deaf man with a speech impediment to Jesus.
• The Lord heals the man, and those who witness the miracle proclaim it far and wide.

Mass Readings – 23rd Sunday of the Year

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