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Wednesday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time

Wednesday August 7, 2024

Daily Mass Readings for Wednesday of the 18th 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) - Numbers 13:1-2, 25–14:1, 26a-29a, 34-35: The Lord commanded Moses to send men to explore the land of Canaan. Despite acknowledging its abundance, the majority of the scouts spread discouraging reports, leading to the people's lack of faith and subsequent punishment of wandering in the desert for forty years.
  • First Reading (Cycle 2) - Jeremiah 31:1-7: The Lord promises restoration and blessing to the people of Israel. He declares that He will be their God, regather them from exile, and bring them back to their land where they will once again enjoy prosperity and rejoice.
  • Responsorial Psalm (Cycle 1) - Psalm 106: Remember us, O Lord, as You favor Your people. We have sinned, forgotten Your wonders, and tempted You, but You are the God who saves and shows mercy.
  • Responsorial Psalm (Cycle 2) - Jeremiah 31: The Lord, like a shepherd, will protect us with His care. The scattered Israelites will be gathered and redeemed, joyfully ascending to receive blessings from the Lord, who will turn their sorrows into joy.
  • Gospel - Matthew 15:21-28: A Canaanite woman approaches Jesus, pleading for her daughter's deliverance from a demon. Despite initial resistance, Jesus commends her great faith and grants her request, healing her daughter.

Themes for the Daily Mass Readings for Wednesday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time

  • Perseverance: The Canaanite woman's persistence in seeking Jesus' help for her daughter showcases the theme of perseverance in faith. Despite facing initial challenges, her determination leads to a profound encounter with Jesus.
  • Children of God: Jesus' acknowledgment that the woman's faith is "great" highlights the theme of believers being recognized as children of God through their faith and trust in Him.
  • Outsiders Embracing Faith: The Canaanite woman, as a non-Jewish outsider, exemplifies the theme of outsiders being welcomed into God's Kingdom through their genuine faith, regardless of their background.
  • Humility and Faith: The woman's humble request and unwavering faith reveal the interconnected themes of humility and faith, illustrating the disposition required to approach Jesus and receive His blessings.
  • Divine Mercy: Jesus' response to the woman, despite the cultural barriers, underscores the theme of divine mercy and the inclusive nature of God's salvation plan, available to all who believe.
  • Faith's Impact: The passage illustrates how faith can have a impact on lives. The woman's faith not only leads to her daughter's healing but also highlights the spiritual transformation that occurs through encounters with Jesus.

She said, “Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from the table of their masters.” Then Jesus said to her in reply, “O woman, great is your faith! Let it be done for you as you wish.”

Matthew 14:30-31

Thoughts for Wednesday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time

In the Gospel passage for Wednesday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time, we encounter the inspiring story of the Canaanite woman who approaches Jesus, seeking healing for her daughter. Her unwavering faith and persistence in the face of apparent hesitation from Jesus teach us valuable lessons about prayer, patience, and trust in God's goodness.

The Canaanite woman's initial request and Jesus's response might seem unexpected. However, her perseverance shines through as she refuses to be discouraged by his initial silence and the seemingly discouraging reply. Her steadfastness in continuing to ask for help showcases her deep trust in Jesus's ability to heal her daughter.

In our own lives, we often face situations where we seek answers or solutions through prayer. Like the Canaanite woman, we might anticipate immediate responses or specific outcomes. Yet, just as Jesus's initial response may appear puzzling, so might the timing and nature of God's responses to our prayers.

This story reminds us that God's ways are not always our ways. We may not understand the reasons behind delays or seemingly unanswered prayers. However, like the Canaanite woman, we are called to persist in prayer and trust in God's goodness, even when circumstances appear challenging.

God's timing and plans are perfect, even if they do not align with our expectations. In times of uncertainty, when we don't receive what we ask for right away, we must remember to echo the Canaanite woman's plea: "Lord, help me." This humble and persistent attitude fosters a deep reliance on God's providence and grace.

As we reflect on this passage, let us learn from the Canaanite woman's faith and perseverance. May her example inspire us to remain steadfast in our prayers, even when answers seem delayed or unclear. Just as she trusted in Jesus's goodness, may we also place our trust in God's plan for us, knowing that His ways are always higher than our own.

Prayer for Wednesday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time

Lord, help me. I need you everyday in my life. Sometimes you don't give me the answer I am looking for me. I will continue to turn to you. Amen.

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Homilies and Reflections for Wednesday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time

Word On Fire: The Persistent Call of the Other

Bishop Robert Barron's reflection for Wednesday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time points out that the story of the Canaanite woman's perseverance offers multiple layers of meaning. Traditionally, her persistence is highlighted as a virtue, reflecting the expansion of our will in prayer and the proper attitude of humility and boldness towards God. However, there's also an ethical reading that focuses on the biblical emphasis on the "stranger, widow, and orphan." This perspective reminds us that the Church, as the Body of Christ, encounters those in need who press upon us for help, friendship, and care. Amid our busy lives, the Christian response involves remembering the suffering and needs of others, even when they may seem demanding or inconvenient.

USCCB Reflection: Steadfast Trust in God's Peace

This USCCB video reflection for Wednesday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 focuses on the theme of having a steadfast heart that trusts in the Lord. The reflection draws from the psalmist's words and emphasizes the challenges of daily life, the distractions that can cause fear and anxiety, and the longing for inner peace. The message centers on fixing our gaze on God, allowing Him to provide the abundant grace needed for all aspects of life. It also highlights the paradox of finding meaning and joy through selfless service to others, echoing the example set by Jesus. The reflection invites viewers to renew their trust in God's presence on life's journey and to center their lives around Him for a steadfast heart.

Word On Fire: A Lesson in Perseverance

Bishop Robert Barron's reflection for Wednesday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time explains that while Jesus' primary mission was directed towards his fellow Jews, this encounter reveals the broader scope of God's salvific plan for all of humanity. The woman, representing the world's longing for God's justice and mercy, reaches out to Jesus for help. Despite Jesus' initial silence and indirect rebuke, her unyielding faith and perseverance shine through. This story teaches us the importance of persevering in prayer even in the face of challenges and setbacks. Just as the Canaanite woman's faith pleased the Lord, our persistence in seeking God's grace can lead us to a deeper connection with Him.

USCCB Reflection: Embracing God's Personal Love

In this USCCB video reflection for Wednesday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2, the Prophet Jeremiah's message is explored, focusing on the personal and unique love that God has for each individual. The reflection highlights how we often struggle to believe that God loves us personally with all our strengths and weaknesses. It invites us to embrace the truth that God's love is poured into our lives in specific ways, ultimately seen in the gift of Jesus. By recognizing and accepting this personal love, we are empowered to love one another and find healing, strength, and peace.

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