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Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time

Friday October 11, 2024

Daily Mass Readings for Friday 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) - Joel 1:13-15; 2:1-2: Priests are urged to mourn and call for a fast due to the approaching day of the LORD. This imminent day is described as dark, gloomy, and foreboding, heralded by a vast, unique force.
  • First Reading (Cycle 2) - Galatians 3:7-14: Abraham's children are those with faith, not just lineage. The law cannot justify, only faith does. Christ's sacrifice freed us from the law's curse, extending Abraham's blessing to all through faith.
  • Responsorial Psalm (Cycle 1) - Psalm 9: I wholeheartedly thank and praise the LORD. He has thwarted wicked nations, yet rules forever, judging all with justice and fairness.
  • Responsorial Psalm (Cycle 2) - Psalm 111: In gratitude, I praise the LORD's magnificent deeds. He is just, gracious, and remembers his covenant always. He sustains those loyal to him and shares his power with his people.
  • Gospel - Luke 11:15-26: Jesus addressed accusations of casting out demons with Beelzebul's power, explaining a kingdom's fall if divided. He emphasized his divine authority and warned of evil's persistent nature.

Themes for the Daily Mass Readings for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time

  • Accusations and Defense: Some accuse Jesus of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebul, to which Jesus provides a reasoned defense. This theme showcases opposition and the defense of divine actions.
  • House Divided: Jesus argues that a kingdom or house divided against itself cannot stand. This theme emphasizes the illogical nature of the accusation.
  • Stronger Man: Jesus uses the metaphor of a stronger man to illustrate his power over evil forces. This theme underscores Jesus' authority over demonic realms.
  • Vacant Spirit: The parable about the unclean spirit returning with others to its "house" warns of the dangers of spiritual emptiness. This theme emphasizes the need for positive spiritual growth, not just the removal of negative influences.

He knew their thoughts and said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself will be laid waste and house will fall against house."

Luke 11:17

Thoughts for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time

In the gospel for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time, Luke 11:15-26, Jesus is accused of driving out demons by the power of Beelzebul, the prince of demons. Jesus responds with logic, highlighting the inconsistency of the claim and then speaks about the spiritual battle and the state of a person from whom a demon has been driven out.

This passage can be a reflection of today's divisive tendencies where, often, society is polarized into distinct groups. Any action or statement made is immediately ascribed to one group or the other. This binary approach can prevent genuine understanding and dialogue, much like the accusers of Jesus failed to see His true purpose.

Jesus states, "Any kingdom divided against itself will be ruined." This holds true in our personal relationships, communities, and larger societal structures. Division, especially when it's based on superficial or misinformed premises, weakens the collective strength and purpose.

The parable of the returning demon shows the dangers of spiritual emptiness. It’s not enough to simply reject negativity or evil; one must also embrace goodness and truth. In our lives, we should be wary of the voids we create and be proactive in filling them with positive and constructive beliefs and actions.

In navigating the complexities of today's world, it's crucial to rise above the 'us vs them' dichotomy. By promoting understanding, unity, and a proactive approach to spiritual and moral well-being, we can counteract division and foster a more inclusive and harmonious environment.

Prayer for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time

Father, teach me how to bring your people together. Let me strengthen my community by seeking unity and not division. Help me to find common ground. Amen.

Homilies and Reflections for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time

Word on Fire: Unity Over Division

In this reflection for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time, Bishop Robert Barron examines today's Gospel where Jesus encounters a demon-possessed man. Upon expelling the demon, Jesus faces accusations of collaborating with Satan. Bishop Barron emphasizes Jesus' logic that a kingdom divided against itself cannot stand. The key message is that while evil seeks to divide and scatter, Jesus always seeks communion and unity. In trying times, division can be a reflex, but Jesus reminds us of the value of unity.

USCCB Reflection: Guarding Against Temptation

In this USCCB video reflection for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time, we are reminded of Satan's influence and are encouraged to be vigilant against his temptations. Engaging in dialogue with the devil can lead to sin, as he is cunning and persuasive. Instead, maintaining a strong connection with God provides the strength to resist temptations, reinforcing the idea that relying solely on oneself is not sufficient. Seeking refuge in God's teachings and sacraments strengthens believers against worldly challenges.

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