Let’s take a look at some of the themes that surface in the Mass readings for the 5th Sunday of the Year.

1st Reading – Job 7:1-4,6-7

• Job laments that much of human life is drudgery, misery, and restlessness.
• He doubts that he will ever see happiness again.

Psalm – 147:1-6

• “Praise the Lord, who heals the brokenhearted.”
• God’s goodness brings healing, wisdom, and sustenance to those in pain.

2nd Reading – 1st Corinthians 9:16-19,22-23

• Paul has an obligation to preach, and his recompense is to do so free of charge.
• He has become weak to win over the weak, striving to save souls for the sake of the gospel.

Gospel – Mark 1:29-39

• In Capernaum, Jesus heals Simon’s mother-in-law, and when many people from around the town arrive after sunset, he heals them and drives out demons.
• The Lord then invites the disciples the next day to go to the nearby villages to continue this ministry.

Mass Readings – 5th Sunday of the Year (B, #74)

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