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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What date is Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time?
The next date is Friday October 11, 2024.
What are the Mass readings for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1?
The Mass Readings for Friday October 10, 2025 are:
First Reading (Cycle 1) – Joel 1:13-15; 2:1-2: Call to Repentance
Responsorial Psalm (Cycle 1) – Psalm 9: God’s Just Rule
Gospel – Luke 11:15-26: Kingdom Undivided
What are the Mass readings for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2?
The Mass readings for Friday October 11, 2024 are:
First Reading (Cycle 2) – Galatians 3:7-14: Faith Over Law
Responsorial Psalm (Cycle 2) – Psalm 111: God’s Eternal Promise
Gospel – Luke 11:15-26: Kingdom Undivided
What happens in Luke 11:15-26, the gospel for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time?
When Jesus drives out a demon, some accuse Him of doing it through the power of Beelzebul, the prince of demons. Jesus refutes this, stating that a kingdom divided against itself cannot stand. He asserts that if He drives out demons by the power of God, then the Kingdom of God has come upon them. Jesus also speaks about the strong man being overtaken by someone stronger, and the state of a person when an impure spirit leaves and then returns with more spirits.
What are the themes for the gospel for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time?
The themes in Luke 11:15-26, include the authority and source of Jesus’ power, the coming of God’s Kingdom, and the dangers of spiritual emptiness or vacuity.
Why do some accuse Jesus of using Beelzebul’s power in the gospel for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time (Luke 11:15-26)?
It’s likely a combination of disbelief, skepticism, and a way to discredit Jesus. By attributing His power to a demonic source, they can undermine His message and authority.
What does Jesus mean by a house divided against itself in the gospel for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time (Luke 11:15-26)?
Jesus uses this logic to show the absurdity of the claim. If He were using a demon’s power to drive out demons, it would mean the demonic realm is working against itself, which is illogical.
How does Jesus address the nature of evil in the gospel for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time (Luke 11:15-26)?
Jesus warns about the persistent nature of evil. While he can cast out demons, one should be vigilant, as evil might seek to return with even greater force, indicating the importance of maintaining spiritual fortitude.
How does the story of the impure spirit relate to the main message in the gospel for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time (Luke 11:15-26)?
The story warns about the state of being spiritually empty or uncommitted. If one doesn’t fill their life with positive, godly influences after being cleansed from negativity or evil, they risk falling into a worse state. It emphasizes the importance of consistent spiritual vigilance.
How can the gospel for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time (Luke 11:15-26) be applied to everyday life?
Luke 11:15-26 underscores the importance of recognizing genuine good and divine power. It cautions against skepticism that blinds one to the truth. Moreover, the story about the returning spirits is a reminder to continuously nurture and guard our spiritual lives. Being cleansed or having a positive experience isn’t enough; one must actively cultivate goodness to prevent falling back into negative patterns.
What is the tone and urgency presented in the first reading for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 (Joel 1:13-15; 2:1-2)?
The tone is one of urgency and solemnity. The impending day of the LORD is depicted as a time of darkness and gloom, necessitating repentance and spiritual preparation.
Why are the priests specifically urged to mourn and call for a fast in the first reading for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 (Joel 1:13-15; 2:1-2)?
Priests, being spiritual leaders, play a pivotal role in guiding the community. By mourning and calling for a fast, they set an example for the populace, emphasizing the gravity of the situation and the need for repentance.
How does the Psalmist depict his relationship with the LORD in the responsorial psalm for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 (Psalm 9)?
The Psalmist conveys deep gratitude and praise for the LORD. He acknowledges God’s justice in thwarting wicked nations and recognizes His eternal reign.
What is the main message about God’s nature in the responsorial psalm for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 (Psalm 9)?
The central theme is God’s righteousness and eternal rule. The LORD is depicted as just, fair, and ever-present, judging all with equity.
How do the readings for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 address the contrast between righteousness and wickedness?
Joel warns of impending judgment, calling for repentance, the Psalmist praises God’s righteous judgment, and in Luke, Jesus confronts evil directly, highlighting the persistent battle between good and evil.
What guidance can believers draw from the readings for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 in terms of spiritual preparedness?
The readings collectively underscore the importance of spiritual vigilance, repentance, and trust in God’s righteousness and justice, guiding believers to remain steadfast in faith and wary of evil’s persistent nature.
What is Paul’s central message about Abraham’s children in the first reading for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 (Galatians 3:7-14)?
Paul clarifies that being Abraham’s children isn’t just about lineage, but about having faith. Those who live by faith are true descendants of Abraham.
How does Paul differentiate between the law and faith regarding justification in the first reading for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 (Galatians 3:7-14)?
Paul states that the law cannot justify individuals; only faith can. By faith, and through Christ’s sacrifice, individuals are freed from the constraints and curses of the law.
What attributes of the LORD are highlighted in the responsorial psalm for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 (Psalm 111)?
The psalm underscores the LORD’s magnificent deeds, his justice, graciousness, and unwavering remembrance of his covenant. It speaks of his support for the loyal and the power he grants his people.
How does the psalmist express gratitude in the responsorial psalm for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 (Psalm 111)?
The psalmist extols the LORD’s deeds and qualities, praising him for his consistent support and for the power shared with his followers.
How do the readings for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 reinforce the importance of faith?
Both in Galatians and Luke, faith is paramount. In Galatians, faith is the path to justification and blessings, while in Luke, faith in Jesus’s divine authority is essential to understanding his actions against evil.
What can individuals infer from the readings for Friday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2?
The emphasis on faith suggests that trusting in God can provide strength during challenges. Also, it’s crucial to remain vigilant against negative influences and stay steadfast in one’s beliefs.
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