Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time

Q: What date is Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time?

The next date is Wednesday July 31, 2024 .

Q: What are the Mass readings for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time?

The Mass readings for Wednesday July 31, 2024 are: First Reading (Cycle 1) - <a href="https://young-catholics.com/scripture-reading/?en=1918&rp=17564">Exodus 34:29-35</a>: Moses' Radiant Face First Reading (Cycle 2) - <a href="https://young-catholics.com/scripture-reading/?en=1232&rp=17564">Jeremiah 15:10, 16-21</a>: A Prophet's Struggle and God's Promise Responsorial Psalm (Cycle 1) - <a href="https://young-catholics.com/scripture-reading/?en=1919&rp=17564">Psalm 99</a>: Exalt the Holy LORD Responsorial Psalm (Cycle 2) - <a href="https://young-catholics.com/scripture-reading/?en=1233&rp=17564">Psalm 59</a>: God, My Refuge in Distress Gospel - <a href="https://young-catholics.com/scripture-reading/?en=1234&rp=17564">Matthew 13:44-46</a>: Hidden Treasure and Pearl See the <a href="#readings">readings</a> section of this page for a longer summary of these readings for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time and links to the readings.

Q: What are the themes for the Gospel for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time?

The gospel for Wednesday July 31, 2024 calls for a joyful and sacrificial response from believers, who recognize the treasure that comes with knowing and following Christ. The parables challenge us to reevaluate our priorities and make the Kingdom of God the central focus of our lives, willingly surrendering everything to possess its eternal value. The passage encourages believers to find joy and fulfillment in embracing the precious gift of God's Kingdom, available to all who respond with sincere faith and commitment. See the <a href="#themes">themes</a> section of this page for an expansion on these themes for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time. A reflection, prayer, and homily links are also available.

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Daily Mass Readings for Wednesday of the 17th 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. When this falls on July 29, the gospel for the Memorial of Saints Martha, Mary, and Lazarus is used.

First Reading (Cycle 1) - Exodus 34:29-35: Moses' face becomes radiant after conversing with the LORD on Mount Sinai. The people fear him but approach when called. Moses covers his face with a veil when not speaking with God.
First Reading (Cycle 2) - Jeremiah 15:10, 16-21: The prophet laments his troubled existence. He finds joy in God's words but faces rejection. God assures restoration if he repents and speaks His truth. God promises protection and deliverance from the wicked.
Responsorial Psalm (Cycle 1) - Psalm 99: Worship at God's footstool, for He is holy. He answered Moses, Aaron, and Samuel's calls from the pillar of cloud. Exalt the LORD at His holy mountain, for He is holy.

Responsorial Psalm (Cycle 2) - Psalm 59: I seek rescue from enemies and evildoers. They lie in wait, but I trust in God. His strength and mercy are my refuge in distress. I sing praises to Him, my merciful God.
Gospel - Matthew 13:44-46: In two parables, Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to a hidden treasure and a valuable pearl, emphasizing the incomparable worth of discovering and dedicating oneself fully to the kingdom, prompting individuals to joyfully give up everything to possess it.

Themes for the Daily Mass Readings for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time

The Parables of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl: The passage presents two short parables, one about a man finding a hidden treasure in a field and another about a merchant seeking fine pearls, to illustrate the supreme value of the Kingdom of God.

Sacrifice and Joy: The parables highlight the willingness of the man and the merchant to sacrifice all they have to obtain the treasure and the pearl, demonstrating the joy and conviction that come from recognizing the incomparable worth of the Kingdom.
The Treasure of God's Kingdom: The parables portray the Kingdom of God as a priceless treasure that, once discovered, is worthy of giving up everything else to possess.
The Imperishable Nature of the Kingdom: The parables illustrate that the Kingdom of God is a treasure and a pearl of eternal value, contrasting with the temporary and perishable nature of worldly possessions.

Personal Investment and Commitment: The parables call for personal investment and commitment to embrace the Kingdom's value, recognizing that genuine faith in Christ requires giving up everything to follow Him wholeheartedly.
The All-Encompassing Nature of God's Kingdom: The passage emphasizes the inclusive nature of the Kingdom, as it is open to all who recognize its value and willingly surrender their lives to Christ.

The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure buried in a field, which a person finds and hides again, and out of joy goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.

Thoughts for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time

In the parables of the buried treasure and the pearl of great price from the gospel for for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time (Matthew 13:44-46), Jesus presents two different scenarios of encountering the Kingdom of God. In the first parable, a man stumbles upon a hidden treasure while working in a field, and in the second, a wealthy merchant actively searches for a valuable pearl.

Both parables emphasize the universality of opportunities to encounter God's Kingdom. It does not discriminate based on one's social or economic status; it is available to all, regardless of their background or circumstances. The Kingdom of God can be discovered unexpectedly, like stumbling upon hidden treasure, or through a deliberate and intentional search, like the merchant seeking the perfect pearl.

However, recognizing the invitation to the Kingdom is only the first step. Having the courage and conviction to give all of oneself to receive it is equally essential. Both the man who discovered the treasure and the merchant had to make significant sacrifices to possess what they found. They were willing to part with everything they had to obtain something of immeasurable value.

In our daily lives, we also encounter opportunities to experience God's Kingdom. Sometimes, it may be through unexpected moments of grace and revelation, and other times, it may require active seeking and intentional pursuit. However, recognizing these opportunities is not enough; we must have the courage to respond wholeheartedly, surrendering all that we are to embrace the Kingdom fully.

May these parables inspire us to be attentive to the moments when God's Kingdom is revealed to us, whether unexpectedly or through intentional seeking. Let us be willing to sacrifice whatever may hinder our encounter with God's grace and love. May we have the courage to give all of ourselves to receive the treasure of His Kingdom, recognizing its incomparable value.

Prayer for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time

Lord, help me to be open to the moments when I encounter your love in my life, whether I am seeking them out or they unexpectedly happen. Let these serve as opportunities to give all that I am and all that I have to you. Amen.

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Homilies and Reflections for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time

Word On Fire: Discovering the Treasure of God's Love

From Bishop Robert Barron for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time. Like stumbling upon a treasure while walking through the fields, God's love can unexpectedly find us in our everyday lives. Often, it comes when we least expect it, illuminating the true purpose of life. Jesus encourages us to be open to the inrushing of grace and to let go of anything that holds us back from embracing God's love fully. Let us be attentive and receptive to the divine presence in the ordinary moments, for that is where we may encounter the precious treasure of God's love.

USCCB Reflection: The Invaluable Treasure of Faith

In this USCCB reflection for Wednesday of the 17th week in Ordinary Time, the Gospel passage from Matthew is explored, where Jesus compares the kingdom of heaven to a treasure hidden in a field and a pearl of great price. The reflection suggests that faith is the treasure and pearl of great value in our lives, as it opens the door to God's eternal kingdom and allows us to experience His love and forgiveness through the Church. Gratitude for the gift of faith and a longing to deepen our relationship with God are encouraged as we journey on the path of faith.

Frequently Asked Questions for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time

What date is Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time?

The next date is Wednesday July 31, 2024.

What are the Mass readings for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time?

The Mass readings for July 31, 2024 are:
First Reading (Cycle 1) - Exodus 34:29-35: Moses' Radiant Face
First Reading (Cycle 2) - Jeremiah 15:10, 16-21: A Prophet's Struggle and God's Promise
Responsorial Psalm (Cycle 1) - Psalm 99: Exalt the Holy LORD
Responsorial Psalm (Cycle 2) - Psalm 59: God, My Refuge in Distress
Gospel - Matthew 13:44-46: Hidden Treasure and Pearl
See the readings section of this page for a longer summary of these readings for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time and links to the readings.

What are the themes for the Gospel for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time?

The gospel for July 31, 2024 calls for a joyful and sacrificial response from believers, who recognize the treasure that comes with knowing and following Christ. The parables challenge us to reevaluate our priorities and make the Kingdom of God the central focus of our lives, willingly surrendering everything to possess its eternal value. The passage encourages believers to find joy and fulfillment in embracing the precious gift of God's Kingdom, available to all who respond with sincere faith and commitment.
See the themes section of this page for an expansion on these themes for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time. A reflection, prayer, and homily links are also available.

What is the main message of the Gospel parables for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time (Matthew 13:44-46)?

The Gospel parables emphasize the incomparable worth of the kingdom of heaven. Just as a hidden treasure or a valuable pearl is worth giving up everything to possess, so too is the kingdom of heaven. These parables prompt us to joyfully dedicate ourselves fully to the pursuit and realization of God's kingdom, prioritizing it above all worldly treasures.

How can we apply the lessons from the Gospel parables for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time (Matthew 13:44-46) in our lives?

The Gospel parables call us to recognize the supreme value of our relationship with God and His kingdom. We should be willing to let go of anything that hinders our spiritual growth and dedicate ourselves wholeheartedly to living in accordance with God's will. This involves seeking a deeper relationship with Him, living a life of love and service, and prioritizing eternal values over temporary ones.

How can we encourage others to discover the value of God's kingdom as in the Gospel parables for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time (Matthew 13:44-46) ?

We can encourage others to discover the value of God's kingdom through our own witness and joyful dedication to living a life centered on faith and love. Sharing our personal testimonies of encountering God's grace and transforming power can also inspire others to seek a deeper relationship with Him. Lastly, we can invite others to join us in prayer, study of Scripture, and participating in the community of believers to experience the beauty and worth of God's kingdom.

How can we actively seek and discover the kingdom of heaven in our daily lives as in the Gospel parables for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time (Matthew 13:44-46)?

Actively seeking the kingdom of heaven involves aligning our lives with God's will and teachings. We can do this through daily prayer, participation in the sacraments, studying and meditating on Scripture, and seeking ways to love and serve others selflessly. By cultivating a heart that seeks God above all else, we open ourselves to discovering the treasure of His presence and grace in every aspect of our lives.

Why did Moses' face become radiant after conversing with the LORD on Mount Sinai in the First Reading for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 (Exodus 34:29-35)?

Moses' face became radiant as a visible sign of his close encounter with God's presence and glory. The radiance symbolized the divine illumination and holiness bestowed upon Moses during his intimate communication with the Lord.

Why did Moses cover his face with a veil when not speaking with God in the First Reading for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 (Exodus 34:29-35)?

Moses covered his face with a veil as a way of preserving the Israelites' reverence and awe for the divine encounter he had experienced. The veil also served to hide the fading radiance, which would have been overwhelming for the people. It signified the sacredness of his connection with God.

What does the Responsorial Psalm for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 (Psalm 99) teach us about worship and God's holiness?

The Responsorial Psalm calls for worship at God's footstool, recognizing His holiness and greatness. It highlights how God responded to the calls of faithful servants like Moses, Aaron, and Samuel, acknowledging His presence in their lives and His responsiveness to their prayers. The psalm encourages us to exalt the Lord in His holy dwelling place and approach Him with reverence.

How can we experience God's presence and radiate His glory in our lives, like Moses in the First Reading for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 (Exodus 34:29-35)?

Just as Moses spent time in intimate conversation with God on Mount Sinai, we can experience God's presence through prayer, meditation on Scripture, and participation in the sacraments. By seeking a deeper relationship with God and living according to His commandments, we can radiate His love and goodness to others.

How can we approach God with reverence and awe in our daily live, like in the First Reading for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 (Exodus 34:29-35)?

Approaching God with reverence and awe involves acknowledging His holiness and greatness. We can cultivate this attitude by setting aside time for prayer and worship, attending Mass regularly, participating in the sacraments, and showing respect for sacred traditions and objects in our faith.

How does Jeremiah's lament in the First Reading for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 (Jeremiah 15:10, 16-21) relate to our own struggles and challenges in life?

Jeremiah's lament reflects the human experience of facing rejection and trouble, even when speaking God's truth. It reminds us that as followers of God, we may encounter difficulties and opposition in our journey. However, the passage also encourages us to find joy and strength in God's words and promises of restoration and protection if we remain faithful and repent when needed.

How can we trust in God's promises of protection and deliverance, as mentioned in the First Reading for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 (Jeremiah 15:10, 16-21)?

Trusting in God's promises of protection and deliverance requires a deep and steadfast faith. We can strengthen this trust through regular prayer, studying Scripture to understand God's character and faithfulness, and reflecting on past experiences where God has proven faithful in our lives. Surrendering our fears and worries to Him and seeking His guidance in all aspects of life can also deepen our trust in His providence.

How can we find joy and strength in God's words, just like Jeremiah did in the First Reading for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 (Jeremiah 15:10, 16-21)?

To find joy and strength in God's words, we must engage in regular reading and reflection on Scripture. God's Word is a source of encouragement, wisdom, and guidance. By meditating on His promises and learning from the experiences of biblical figures, we can draw strength in facing our own challenges and finding joy in His loving presence.

How can we cultivate a spirit of trust and reliance on God, especially in difficult times as in the First Reading for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 (Jeremiah 15:10, 16-21)?

Cultivating trust and reliance on God involves nurturing a prayerful and intimate relationship with Him. Engaging in daily prayer, entrusting our worries to Him, and surrendering our plans to His will can strengthen our faith. Seeking spiritual guidance through the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist and Reconciliation, can also provide comfort and fortitude in difficult times.

What can we learn from the Psalmist in the Responsorial Psalm for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 (Psalm 59)?

Psalm 59 expresses the Psalmist's trust in God amidst the threats of enemies and evildoers. It teaches us to seek refuge in God's strength and mercy during times of distress and danger. The Psalmist's act of singing praises to God exemplifies the power of worship and prayer as a source of comfort and hope in challenging situations.

How can the teachings from these readings for Wednesday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 inspire us to live a more meaningful and purposeful life?

The readings inspire us to prioritize God's kingdom and His truth above all else. They call us to trust in God's promises, find joy in His Word, and seek His guidance in our daily decisions. By doing so, we can live a life of purpose, dedicated to discovering the treasure of God's love and sharing it with others through our actions and words. These readings encourage us to deepen our relationship with God and strive to be His witnesses in the world.