Here are some of the central themes in the Mass readings for the 22nd Sunday of the Year.

1st Reading – Jeremiah 20:7-9

• Jeremiah is duped by the Lord, who overwhelms the prophet with a message for the people which often causes him derision and reproach.
• Even though Jeremiah attempts to avoid his calling, God’s word is burning within him, and he must cry out.

Psalm – 63:2-6,8-9

• “My soul is thirsting for you, O Lord my God.”
• Our soul sees God’s goodness, and we long to give praise and blessing to the Lord who upholds us.

2nd Reading – Romans 12:1-2

• Paul urges us to offer our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.
• Rather than conform to this age, we are called to be transformed by the renewal of our mind to the will of God.

Gospel – Matthew 16:21-27

• Jesus speaks about his coming Passion, and then he rebukes Peter for attempting to avoid it.
• The Lord then teaches that anyone who wishes to come after him must take up his cross and follow.

Mass Readings – 22nd Sunday of the Year (#124)

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