Daily Mass Readings for Thursday of the 27th 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) - Malachi 3:13-20b: The LORD addresses those doubting the value of serving Him. While evildoers seem to prosper, the LORD promises to cherish and reward those who fear and trust Him. The wicked will face judgment.
- First Reading (Cycle 2) - Galatians 3:1-5: I question the Galatians' understanding, asking if they received the Spirit by law or faith. I emphasize the importance of faith over mere ritual, challenging their shift from Spirit to flesh.
- Responsorial Psalm (Cycle 1) - Psalm 1: A blessed man avoids wickedness, finding joy in the LORD's law. Like a fruitful tree by water, he prospers. The wicked, however, are fleeting, and the LORD protects the just from their path.
- Responsorial Psalm (Cycle 2) - Luke 1 (The Canticle of Zachariah): God raised a savior from David's line. He kept ancient promises, saving us from enemies. God showed mercy, remembering his covenant with Abraham, allowing us to worship without fear.
- Gospel - Luke 11:5-13: Jesus illustrates the importance of persistence in prayer. Even if initially unanswered, persistent requests yield results. He assures that God, being more benevolent than earthly parents, will grant good to those who ask.
Themes for the Daily Mass Readings for Thursday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time
- Persistence in Prayer: Through a parable, Jesus emphasizes the need to persist in asking, seeking, and knocking. This theme underscores the value of tenacity in prayer.
- God’s Willingness to Give: Jesus suggests that if flawed humans can give good gifts, God, being perfect, will certainly provide. This emphasizes the theme of divine benevolence.
- Seeking Spiritual Gifts: The reference to asking for the Holy Spirit emphasizes seeking spiritual rather than material gifts. This theme prioritizes spiritual nourishment and growth.
- Contrasting Human and Divine Responses: By comparing human reactions to God's, Jesus illustrates God's superior generosity and responsiveness.
And I tell you, ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives; and the one who seeks, finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened.
Luke 11:9-10
Reflection for Thursday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time
The gospel for Thursday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time, Luke 11:5-13, presents a parable about a friend who seeks bread at midnight and a teaching about a father giving good gifts to his children. It emphasizes the importance of persistence in prayer and trust in God's benevolence.
Today, in our fast-paced society, we often expect instant gratification. When we don't receive immediate answers, frustration creeps in. This parable serves as a reminder that persistence, especially in our relationship with God, is essential. Just as the friend kept knocking, we should remain steadfast in our prayers and communications with God.
While persistence is a virtue, obstinance can be a hindrance. The difference lies in the intent and adaptability. Persistence shows commitment and determination, whereas obstinance can indicate rigidity. It's crucial to discern whether we're truly being persistent in a righteous cause or simply being stubborn.
The latter part of this passage assures us of God's willingness to provide. As a parent wouldn't hand a child a snake when asked for a fish, God ensures our well-being. We may not always receive exactly what we ask for, but we can trust that God knows our needs better than we do.
In our daily routines, let's apply the virtue of persistence, especially in our spiritual journey. Trusting in God's timing and benevolence, while avoiding the pitfalls of obstinance, can lead us to a more fulfilling relationship with Him and a better understanding of our own desires and needs.
Prayer
Lord, hear my prayers. I need your help every day. But if what I ask is not for the good of my soul or others, give me what you think is right instead. Amen.
Homilies and Reflections for Thursday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time
Word On Fire: The Power of Prayer
In this reflection for Thursday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time, Bishop Robert Barron emphasizes that prayer is about cultivating an intimate connection and dialogue with God. This practice should be frequent, especially during pivotal moments in one's life. The manner in which we pray is of paramount importance. Approaching prayer with unwavering faith is crucial, as highlighted by Jesus’ consistent emphasis on belief before performing miracles. Jesus assures us that when we ask with faith, our prayers will be answered. He reinforces this idea with the words, "Ask and you will receive; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you."
USCCB Reflection: Asking with Persistence
This USCCB video reflection points out that while grocery shopping with his children, we often hear requests for treats, teaching about persistence. Drawing a parallel with prayer, he suggests that continuous prayer isn't about persuading God, but benefiting ourselves. Some might pray to get specific desires or think they can obligate God by repetitively asking. However, true prayer, as Jesus mentioned, is about seeking God's spirit, aiming to embody the spirit that drove Jesus's actions. The ultimate goal of prayer should be aligning with God's will. Praying with trust and persistence makes God's will more present in our lives, since genuine prayer strengthens our bond with Him.
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