Let’s explore some of the themes that we find in the Mass readings for the 30th Sunday of the Year.

1st Reading – Sirach 35:12-14,16-18

• The Lord is a God of justice, who knows no favorites.
• The prayers of the lowly and the one who serves God willingly are heard.

Psalm – 34:2-3,17-19,23

• “The Lord hears the cry of the poor.”
• The Lord confronts evildoers and redeems the brokenhearted.

2nd Reading – 2nd Timothy 4:6-8,16-18

• Paul has competed well and finished the race; he has kept the faith.
• While everyone else deserted him, the Lord stood by and gave him strength.

Gospel – Luke 18:9-14

• Jesus offers a parable about a Pharisee and a tax collector, directing it to those who were convinced of their own righteousness and despised everyone else.
• The Pharisee’s words had little effect; however, the tax collector’s humble prayer was heard in heaven.

Mass Readings – 30th Sunday of the Year (#150)

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