Here are some of the key themes in readings for the 24th Week of the Year.

1st Reading – Isaiah 50:5-9a

• The prophet physically suffers from the abuse of others.
• God is a source of help and strength in time of trial.

Psalm – 116:1-6,8-9

• “I will walk before the Lord, in the land of the living.”
• The Lord strengthens us in our moments of distress and sorrow when we call for help.

2nd Reading – James 2:14-18

• Faith in God without works is dead.
• Rather, the works that we do which give witness to our faith in God.

Gospel 8:27-35

• Christ asks the disciples, “Who do people say that I am?” and Peter gets it right when he answers, “You are the Christ.”
• After Christ explains that he will suffer and be killed, the Lord rebukes Peter for not thinking like God.
• Jesus teaches, “Whoever wishes to come after me must deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.”

Mass Readings – 24th Sunday of the Year

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