Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time
Monday October 12, 2026
Daily Mass Readings for Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2
- First Reading – Galatians 4:22-24, 26-27, 31–5:1: Abraham had two sons, one from a slave, another from a free woman. These represent two covenants: one of slavery from Mount Sinai, and one of freedom from Jerusalem above. We are children of the free woman, so stand firm in Christ’s freedom.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 113: Servants of the Lord praise His name eternally, from sunrise to sunset. The Lord’s glory is above all nations and heavens. He uplifts the poor and lowly.
- Gospel – Luke 11:29-32: Jesus tells the crowd that their generation is evil for seeking a sign. He states that the only sign given will be similar to Jonah’s experience. At the judgment, this generation will be condemned by the queen of the south and the men of Nineveh.
This generation is an evil generation; it seeks a sign, but no sign will be given it, except the sign of Jonah.
Luke 11:29
Themes for the Readings for Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2
On Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2, the readings from Galatians and Luke call us to reflect on the freedom we have in Christ and the need to recognize God’s signs. St. Paul speaks of the freedom we have as children of the promise, while Jesus warns the crowds to pay attention to the signs given to them.
- Freedom in Christ: St. Paul reminds us that we are not slaves to the old law but free through Christ. This calls us to live in the freedom of God’s grace.
- The Promise of Faith: The reading contrasts those born according to the flesh and those born through the promise. We are children of the promise, called to live by faith.
- Trusting God’s Plan: Paul emphasizes that God’s plan is different from human expectations. We are called to trust that God knows what is best for us, even when it is hard to understand.
- The Warning of Jesus: In the Gospel, Jesus warns the crowds that they seek signs but fail to recognize the ones already given. We are reminded to pay attention to the ways God is already working in our lives.
- Call to Repentance: Jesus compares the generation to the people of Nineveh, who repented at the preaching of Jonah. We are also called to repent and turn back to God.
- God’s Presence in Our Lives: Jesus speaks of the wisdom of Solomon and how something greater is here. This reminds us that Christ’s presence is always with us, guiding us.
These themes challenge us to recognize the freedom we have in Christ and the importance of living by faith. They call us to trust in God’s plan, repent of our sins, and see God’s work in our daily lives.
Thoughts for Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2
On Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2, the readings call us to reflect on how we live by faith and respond to God’s presence in our lives. St. Paul reminds us that we are free as children of the promise, and Jesus challenges the crowd to recognize God’s signs. These reflections help us to consider our own faith journey and how we trust in God’s plan.
Living as Children of the Promise
On Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2, Paul speaks about two ways of living—by the flesh or by the promise. Those born according to the flesh follow human rules and rely on their own efforts. Those born through the promise live by faith, trusting in God’s grace. Paul teaches that we are not meant to live as slaves to the law, but as free children of God.
This message is important because it reminds us that faith, not works, makes us part of God’s family. We do not earn God’s love or approval by following rules. Instead, we are given this freely as His children through the promise He made to Abraham, fulfilled in Jesus. Our faith in Christ makes us heirs to this promise.
Living by faith can be hard. We are often tempted to rely on our own strength or worry about meeting certain standards. But Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 encourages us to trust in God’s promise, letting go of the idea that we must be perfect to be loved by Him. Faith calls us to live with the freedom and trust of a child in the care of a loving Father.
Recognizing God’s Work in Our Lives
In the Gospel for Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2, Jesus warns the crowds that they are seeking signs but missing the ones already given. The people wanted Jesus to perform miracles to prove Himself, but they ignored the many signs that God was already showing through Him. Jesus reminds them that no further sign would be given except for the sign of Jonah, pointing to His death and resurrection.
This warning still applies to us today. We often look for big, dramatic signs from God when He may already be at work in more subtle ways. We can miss the ways He is leading, healing, and providing for us in the everyday moments of life. Jesus asks us to open our eyes to the work of God that is already happening around us.
Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 encourages us to be aware of how God is moving in our lives. Instead of constantly asking for proof or new signs, we are called to trust that God is with us and active in both the small and big things. Recognizing His work helps strengthen our faith and reminds us that He is always present, even when we do not see immediate results.
Faith Versus Unbelief
A common theme in both the first reading and the Gospel for Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 is the contrast between faith and unbelief. Paul speaks of the difference between living by the flesh (which often involves a lack of faith in God) and living by the promise (which requires faith). Similarly, in the Gospel, the crowd’s demand for a sign shows their lack of faith. They could not see that Jesus, the Son of God, was already the greatest sign given to them.
Faith is more than just believing in God; it means trusting in Him even when things are not clear. In the first reading, Paul tells us that living by faith makes us part of God’s promise. In the Gospel, Jesus challenges the crowd’s unbelief by pointing out their inability to see what was already right in front of them.
Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 invites us to examine our own faith. Are we living by faith in God’s promises, or are we like the crowds, constantly asking for more signs? True faith requires us to trust God without needing constant proof. When we open our hearts to believe, we begin to see God’s presence and work all around us.
Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time reminds us that faith is about trusting in God and recognizing His work in our lives. We are called to live as children of the promise, aware of the signs He has already given us. As we reflect, let us ask for the grace to live in that freedom and faith.
Prayer
Lord, help us to trust in Your promise and live by faith. Open our eyes to see how You are working in our lives each day. Give us the grace to rely on Your plan and not our own strength. Strengthen our faith so that we may follow You with confidence and peace. Amen.
Reflection Questions
- How can I live more fully in the freedom of Christ as a child of the promise?
- What signs of God’s work have I overlooked in my life?
- In what ways can I grow in trusting God’s plan, even when I do not understand it?
- How is my faith challenged when I am tempted to seek more signs from God?
Homilies and Reflections for Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2
Order of Preachers: In the Belly of the Whale
In his reflection for Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2, Fr. Kieran Healy from the Order of Preachers speaks about the call to heed God’s message, especially in times of decision. He compares Jesus to Jonah, noting that just as Jonah’s time in the whale signaled repentance, Jesus’ time in the tomb calls us to salvation. Fr. Healy encourages thoughtful prayer and discernment, especially in choosing leaders and values that align with God’s will. He reminds us that, as members of both the Church and a democracy, our choices impact society’s future and reflect our faith.
Dynamic Catholic: How to Hear the Word of God
This reflection by Matthew Kelly from Dynamic Catholic for Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 explores Jesus’ words in Luke 11:29-32 about seeking signs and the importance of awareness. Kelly explains that, while the Word of God remains constant, our ability to understand it changes with our life experiences and awareness. Jesus offers glimpses into deeper truth, but we often miss these due to our own limitations. Kelly encourages us to pray for greater awareness, which helps us hear, understand, and live the Gospel more fully. He suggests we reflect on any blind spots or biases that may cloud our understanding.
Word On Fire: Signs of Repentance
In this reflection for Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2, Bishop Robert Barron discusses Jesus’ message about the sign of Jonah, likening the ancient city of Nineveh to modern cities engrossed in worldly concerns. According to Bishop Barron, Nineveh’s conversion serves as a model for contemporary society, showcasing a return to God as the ultimate good. He emphasizes that the ascetic practices of fasting and sackcloth adopted by the Ninevites are aimed at detaching people from worldly pleasures. Bishop Barron suggests that living with a focus on spiritual over material values is akin to living in the kingdom of God.
USCCB Reflection: The Real Sign
This USCCB video reflection for Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 focuses on the idea that Jesus is the “real sign” pointing to greater truths like love, hope, and faith. It warns against modern “slavery” to technology, like cell phones and social media, which can distract us from recognizing these deeper messages. Symbols like crosses and rosaries are emphasized as tools that should guide us toward a better understanding of faith, rather than becoming the main focus themselves. The discussion urges people to seek “real signs” of spirituality in their lives, beyond mere symbols or distractions.
Questions and Answers for Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2
What date is Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2?
The next date is Monday October 12, 2026.
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. For odd numbered years see Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1.
What are the Mass readings for Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2?
The Mass readings for Monday October 12, 2026 are:
First Reading– Galatians 4:22-24, 26-27, 31–5:1: Two Covenants
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 113: Bless the Lord
Gospel – Luke 11:29-32: Sign of Jonah
What does Paul mean by freedom in Christ in the first reading for Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2?
In the first reading, Paul explains that through Jesus, we are no longer slaves to the old laws. We are free to live as God’s children, trusting in His grace.
How does the reading from Galatians apply to our daily lives?
Paul reminds us that we should not feel trapped by strict rules or old ways of thinking. We are called to live with the freedom that faith in Christ brings.
How can we trust in God’s plan like Paul suggests?
We must rely on God’s plan, even when we do not fully understand it. This means having faith that God’s ways are better than what we might think is best for ourselves.
Why does Paul compare the two sons in the reading from Galatians?
Paul uses the example of two sons to show the difference between living by the law and living by faith. We are children of God’s promise, and we live by faith in Christ, not just by following rules.
Why does Jesus talk about the people seeking signs in the Gospel for Monday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2?
Jesus is telling the crowd that they are asking for signs from God, but they are ignoring the ones already in front of them. This teaches us to be aware of how God is already working in our lives, instead of constantly asking for more proof.
How can we recognize God’s signs in our lives?
God’s signs might not always be dramatic or obvious. We can see His signs in daily events, relationships, and the help we receive in difficult times.
What lesson does the story of Nineveh teach us?
Jesus reminds us how the people of Nineveh listened to Jonah and repented. We are called to turn away from sin and listen when God calls us to change.
What does Jesus mean by something greater than Jonah or Solomon being here?
Jesus is telling the people that He is greater than Jonah or Solomon. This reminds us that Jesus is the center of our faith, and we should listen to His teachings above all.
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