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Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time

Monday July 21, 2025

Daily Mass Readings for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time

Cycle 1 is used in odd numbered years and Cycle 2 is used in even numbered years. The gospel is the same for both years.

  • First Reading (Cycle 1) - Exodus 14:5-18: Pharaoh regrets freeing the Israelites and pursues them with his army. The people fear and complain, but Moses assures them God will fight for them. God instructs Moses to part the sea, leading to the Israelites' escape and the Egyptians' downfall.
  • First Reading (Cycle 2) - Micah 6;1-4, 6-8: The LORD calls upon the mountains to witness His plea against His people. He asks for genuine devotion, not empty sacrifices. The requirements are to do what is right, love goodness, and walk humbly with God.
  • Responsorial Psalm (Cycle 1) - Exodus 15: The LORD is gloriously triumphant, saving his people from Pharaoh's army in the Red Sea. God's powerful right hand shattered the enemy, and they rejoice in His name.
  • Responsorial Psalm (Cycle 2) - Psalm 50: God calls His faithful ones who made a covenant through sacrifice. He values their praise and upright ways, but rebukes those who speak His words while hating discipline. God's justice prevails, and those on the right path will experience His saving power.
  • Gospel - Matthew 12:38-42: Some Pharisees and teachers ask Jesus for a sign, but He rebukes them, saying that no sign will be given except the sign of Jonah. Jesus compares Himself to Jonah, who spent three days and nights in the belly of a fish, and declares that He will be in the heart of the earth for three days before rising again. Jesus points to the Ninevites who repented at Jonah's preaching and emphasizes that someone greater than Jonah is among them, urging them to believe in Him.

Themes for the Daily Mass Readings for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time

  • The Demand for a Sign: The passage begins with the scribes and Pharisees asking Jesus for a sign to prove His authority and identity, highlighting their lack of faith and their persistent testing of Him.
  • Jesus as the Ultimate Sign: Jesus responds by referring to Himself as the sign of Jonah, foreshadowing His own death, burial, and resurrection, indicating that His life and mission are the ultimate sign of God's redemptive plan.
  • Faith and Belief: Jesus rebukes the scribes and Pharisees for their lack of faith, contrasting their unbelief with the faith demonstrated by the Ninevites and the Queen of the South in response to lesser signs.
  • Wisdom of Solomon: Jesus also mentions the wisdom of Solomon, acknowledging the greatness of Solomon's wisdom but declaring that something greater than Solomon is present in Him.
  • The Call to Repentance: The passage underscores the importance of responding to the signs that God has already provided, inviting the listeners to repent and believe in Jesus as the Messiah.
  • Jesus' Authority and Divinity: Through His response, Jesus reaffirms His divine authority and identity as the Son of God, highlighting His role as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the ultimate sign of God's redemptive work.

Thoughts for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time

The Gospel reading for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time invite us to reflect on the theme of walking humbly with God. Often, we desire signs and certainty from God to validate our decisions and choices. We may find ourselves trying to control God, asking for specific signs to guide our path. This seeking of signs can be a sign of pride, as it reflects our desire to have everything under our control and on our terms.

However, developing a genuine relationship with the Lord requires time and humility. It involves surrendering our need for certainty and trusting that God's plans are greater than our own. Walking humbly with God means acknowledging that He is the one who leads, and we are called to follow with trust and obedience. Though we may stumble along the way, we have faith that God will be there to catch us and guide us back on the right path.

We must remember the importance of humility in our relationship with God. We have to let go of our need to know everything and instead embrace the uncertainty with faith. Rather than seeking signs, we are invited to walk humbly, relying on God's wisdom and guidance, even when we do not fully understand His ways.

In our journey of faith, we learn to trust in God's goodness and providence. We recognize that God's plans may not always align with our expectations, but they are always for our ultimate good and His glory. Walking humbly with God means letting go of our need for control and surrendering to His loving and perfect will.

We should release our pride and desire for signs, embracing instead the humility of walking with God. Let us cultivate a deep and intimate relationship with the Lord, trusting in His guidance and following His lead. May we find comfort in knowing that, with God as our guide, we need not have all the answers; we can walk confidently, knowing that His love and grace will sustain us through every step of the journey.

Prayer for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time

Lord, let me not be so prideful as to demand signs of you. Instead, let me hear your invitation to walk with you. Take my hand dear Jesus, and lead me where you want me to go. I will seek to know you better so I can trust in you and be aware of your loving presence in my life. Amen.

Homilies and Reflections for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time

Word on Fire: Seeking Signs

On Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time, Bishop Robert Barron focuses on the Pharisees demand for a sign, to which Jesus replies that only the sign of Jonah will be given—a reference to Jonah's three days in the belly of a whale. Jonah's call to preach conversion to Nineveh, a bustling city, prompts us to envision the conversion of modern cities. True conversion involves turning back to God as the ultimate good, prioritizing the eternal over worldly pursuits. Ascetic practices like fasting and wearing sackcloth aim to detach us from worldly pleasures. We must transcend our current mindset, repent, and live as though worldly matters hold little significance. Focusing on God's enduring truth leads to genuine conversion.

USCCB Reflection: Signs of God's Presence

In this USCCB video reflection for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time, we reflect on the Pharisees' request for a sign from Jesus. However, Jesus explains that the signs of God's presence are not always as blatant as a pop-up button on a turkey. Instead, the signs of God's presence are found in the Scriptures, calling us to do what is right, to love goodness, and to humbly walk with God. We must become signs ourselves, shining as lights to the Nations and embodying the body of Christ. Rather than seeking grandiose signs, we are encouraged to focus on humble actions that bring about positive change in the world.

Word on Fire: Conquering through Resurrection

On Monday of the 15th Week in Ordinary Time, Bishop Robert Barron explains how Jesus' Resurrection brought about a profound spiritual warfare against the powers dominating the world. Jesus confronted the forces of disorder - Herod, Pilate, the scribes, Pharisees, and demons - who fiercely opposed Him. Through the cross and Resurrection, Jesus triumphed over them, courageously forgiving and absorbing their violence, breaking the cycle of hatred. His compassion and forgiveness subdued the devil, liberating humanity. "The strife is o’er, the battle done," proclaims the hymn, signifying Christ's victorious conquest over evil.

USCCB Reflection: Signs of God's Presence

In this USCCB video reflection for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time, the speaker discusses the human desire for signs from God. They recall seeking signs in church as a child and how people look for reassurance in various ways. However, the speaker stresses that Jesus is the ultimate sign, providing comfort and hope through His declaration, "I am the resurrection and the life." They urge us to focus on Jesus as the true sign of God's love, becoming signs of Christ ourselves in the world as baptized Christians. Through our faith and actions, we point to the hope of eternal life with God, the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, rather than relying solely on external signs.

Frequently Asked Questions for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time

What date is Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time?

The next date is Monday July 21, 2025.

What are the Mass readings for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time?

The Mass readings for July 21, 2025 are:
First Reading (Cycle 1) - Exodus 14:5-18: The Exodus and the Parting of the Sea
First Reading (Cycle 2) - Micah 6;1-4, 6-8: The LORD's Plea and the Path of Righteousness
Responsorial Psalm (Cycle 1) - Exodus 15: Singing the Triumph of the LORD
Responsorial Psalm (Cycle 2) - Psalm 50: True Sacrifice and Salvation
Gospel Matthew 12:38-42: Sign of Jonah: A Call to Believe
See the readings section of this page for a longer summary of these readings for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time and links to the readings.

What are the themes for the Gospel for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time?

The gospel for July 21, 2025 challenges believers to have faith in Jesus as the true sign of God's redemption and to respond to His call to repentance. It emphasizes the importance of recognizing Jesus' divine authority and identity, surpassing all human wisdom and earthly signs. The passage also serves as a warning against persistent unbelief and the danger of seeking more signs when God has already provided sufficient evidence of His redemptive work in Jesus Christ.
See the themes section of this page for an expansion on these themes for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time. A reflection, prayer, and homily links are also available.

What is the main message of the Gospel for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time (Matthew 12:38-42)?

The main message of the Gospel passage is Jesus' call for belief and faith in Him. The scribes and Pharisees demand a sign from Jesus, but He points to the sign of Jonah, signifying His impending death, burial, and resurrection. He challenges them to recognize the divine revelation in His works and teachings and to respond with faith.

How does the sign of Jonah mentioned in the Gospel for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time (Matthew 12:38-42) highlight Jesus' redemptive mission?

The sign of Jonah highlights Jesus' redemptive mission by foreshadowing His death and resurrection. Just as Jonah spent three days in the belly of the fish before being delivered, Jesus would spend three days in the tomb before rising again, offering redemption and new life to all who believe in Him.

What is the significance of the First Reading for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 (Exodus 14:5-18)?

The First Reading narrates the miraculous event of the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and the parting of the Red Sea. It showcases God's intervention in saving His people from the pursuing Egyptians and symbolizes liberation and deliverance from slavery.

How does the parting of the Red Sea in the First Reading for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 (Exodus 14:5-18) symbolize God's saving power?

The parting of the Red Sea symbolizes God's saving power as it demonstrates His ability to rescue His people from seemingly impossible situations. God's action of parting the waters and allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground signifies His control over nature and His commitment to fulfilling His promises.

What is the central theme of the Responsorial Psalm for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 (Exodus 15)?

The central theme of the Responsorial Psalm is praise and thanksgiving to the Lord for His triumphant victory over the Egyptians. The psalmist celebrates God's power, mercy, and faithfulness, expressing gratitude for His deliverance.

How does the Responsorial Psalm for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 (Exodus 15) reflect on the theme of victory and deliverance?

The Responsorial Psalm reflects on the theme of victory and deliverance by recounting the defeat of the Egyptians and their chariots in the Red Sea. It magnifies God as a mighty warrior who protected His people and brought them safely to the other side, inspiring a joyful and triumphant response of praise.

What can we learn from the readings for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1?

The readings teach us about God's saving power and deliverance, the importance of praise and thanksgiving, and the call to believe in Jesus' redemptive mission. The First Reading reminds us of God's intervention in the Israelites' liberation from Egypt through the parting of the Red Sea. The Responsorial Psalm celebrates God's victory and inspires gratitude and praise. The Gospel challenges us to recognize the signs of God's revelation in Jesus and respond with faith in His redemptive mission. These readings encourage us to trust in God's saving power, offer praise for His deliverance, and embrace faith in Jesus as our Savior.

What is the significance of the First Reading for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 (Micah 6:1-4, 6-8)?

The First Reading features the prophet Micah's message, where God calls on the people to remember His faithfulness and the covenant relationship with Israel. God desires justice, mercy, and humility rather than empty rituals or sacrifices.

How does the First Reading for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 (Micah 6:1-4, 6-8) emphasize the importance of righteous living?

The First Reading emphasizes the importance of righteous living by reminding the people that God is more concerned with their actions and attitudes than with external religious rituals. Micah calls for justice, kindness, and humility in their dealings with one another, highlighting the path of righteousness.

What is the central theme of the Responsorial Psalm for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 (Psalm 50)?

The central theme of the Responsorial Psalm is true sacrifice and salvation. The psalmist proclaims that God does not desire mere offerings or sacrifices but a heart that is contrite and open to God's guidance and salvation.

How does the Responsorial Psalm for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 (Psalm 50) resonate with the message of the First Reading (Micah 6:1-4, 6-8)?

The Responsorial Psalm resonates with the message of the First Reading by affirming that God is not interested in empty rituals or offerings. Instead, He desires genuine repentance and a contrite heart that seeks righteousness and salvation.

What can we learn from the readings for Monday of the 16th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2?

The readings teach us about the importance of righteous living, true sacrifice, and faith in Jesus' redemptive mission. The First Reading urges us to prioritize justice, kindness, and humility in our actions. The Responsorial Psalm emphasizes the value of a contrite heart and genuine repentance. The Gospel challenges us to recognize the divine signs in Jesus' works and teachings and respond with faith. These readings encourage us to seek righteousness, offer sincere and contrite hearts to God, and believe in Jesus as our Savior.

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