Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time
Thursday November 12, 2026
Daily Mass Readings for Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2
- First Reading – Philemon 7-20: Paul, expressing joy in the recipient’s love and hospitality, urges them to welcome back Onesimus, now not just a servant but a beloved brother in Christ.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 146: The Lord delivers justice, feeds the hungry, frees captives, heals, and uplifts the downtrodden, while thwarting the wicked and reigning eternally.
- Gospel – Luke 17:20-25: Jesus explained to the Pharisees that the Kingdom of God’s arrival isn’t outwardly observable nor can it be pinpointed. He cautioned his disciples about future false claims of seeing the Son of Man, advising against pursuit. He compared His eventual, unmistakable return to a lightning bolt crossing the sky, preceded by suffering and rejection by his contemporaries.
For just as lightning flashes and lights up the sky from one side to the other, so will the Son of Man be in his day.
Luke 17:24
Themes for the Readings for Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2
On Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2, the readings focus on faith, mercy, and the coming of God’s kingdom. St. Paul’s appeal to Philemon and Jesus’ teachings in Luke offer insights into Christian love, forgiveness, and readiness.
- Forgiveness and Reconciliation: Paul urges Philemon to forgive his servant Onesimus and welcome him back. This reflects the Christian call to reconcile with others as we seek unity in Christ.
- Christian Brotherhood: Paul treats Onesimus not as a slave but as a brother in Christ. This shows that faith in Christ transforms relationships and calls us to see each other as family.
- Sacrificial Love: Paul offers to repay any debts owed by Onesimus. This shows a willingness to sacrifice for others and encourages Christians to go beyond duty in showing love.
- Coming of the Kingdom: Jesus explains that the kingdom of God is not a visible event but begins within each person. This invites Christians to seek God in their hearts and actions rather than in signs.
- Faithful Readiness: Jesus warns His followers to be ready for the coming of the Son of Man. This theme emphasizes the importance of living faithfully each day, prepared to meet Christ.
- Perseverance in Hardship: Jesus prepares His disciples for trials and rejection, just as He will be rejected. This calls Christians to persevere in faith, knowing suffering can be part of following Christ.
These themes for Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 encourage Christians to live with mercy, forgiveness, and readiness. Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time reminds believers to look for God’s kingdom in their hearts and in loving actions toward others.
Thoughts for Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2
On Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2, the readings focus on themes of unity, God’s presence, and readiness. St. Paul’s letter to Philemon calls for a shift in how we see others, while Jesus teaches that the kingdom of God is found within us. Together, these readings ask us to live with love, mercy, and a prepared heart, always ready to see God at work in our lives and relationships.
Seeing Others as Fellow Christians
On Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2, St. Paul encourages Philemon to look beyond Onesimus’ past as a slave and see him as a brother in Christ. This change of view is not easy, as it requires Philemon to let go of old ways of thinking and embrace a new way of seeing others through faith. Paul’s appeal is a reminder that in Christ, social status or past actions are less important than our shared faith.
Seeing others as fellow Christians asks us to remember that every person has dignity. It challenges us to treat each other as family in the faith, knowing that God loves each of us as His children. This theme can apply to how we interact daily with others, especially those we might not naturally think of as equals.
In our own lives, this message can remind us to see past labels, mistakes, or differences. Whether it’s forgiving a past wrong or simply treating someone with patience and kindness, we can all practice seeing others as our brothers and sisters. In this way, the reading calls us to look beyond the surface and focus on the unity we share in Christ.
God’s Kingdom Is Within Us
In the Gospel reading on Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2, Jesus teaches that the kingdom of God is not something we look for in outward signs. Instead, it is within each person, shown by how we live and how we love. This challenges His followers to stop searching for God in distant places or big events and instead to find His presence in their own lives and choices.
When we seek God within, we grow in patience, peace, and kindness. Living with God’s kingdom in mind means making choices that reflect His love, whether through kindness to others, prayer, or simply by doing what is right in small moments. We don’t need to look for special signs to know God is with us; He is already working in our lives if we open our hearts.
This message is comforting and challenging. It invites us to bring God’s love into the world through our actions, showing faith through our lives instead of just our words. Living with the kingdom of God in us reminds us that even simple acts of kindness or forgiveness can reveal God’s presence to those around us.
Living with Readiness and Faithfulness
Both readings for Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2, call for readiness and faithfulness in our lives. Paul’s letter to Philemon asks for a loving response and a change of heart, while Jesus calls for constant readiness to meet God. Both passages invite us to live with an open, faithful heart, always prepared to act with love and mercy.
Living with readiness means being open to God’s call at any time, responding with kindness, mercy, and a willingness to change. Philemon is asked to welcome Onesimus not as a servant but as a beloved brother, a step that takes humility and faith. Similarly, Jesus’ words about the coming kingdom remind us that we are called to live each moment fully, trusting God and staying ready to serve.
This kind of faithfulness is not just about big moments but about being dependable in everyday life. It’s about being honest, showing kindness, forgiving others, and keeping our hearts open to God. When we live with readiness and faith, we honor God’s presence in our lives and prepare ourselves for whatever He may ask us to do.
The reflections for Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2, remind us to see others as our brothers and sisters, to live with God’s kingdom in our hearts, and to stay ready in faith. Each day offers us chances to practice kindness, forgiveness, and openness to God’s call. As we go forward, may these reflections inspire us to live each moment faithfully and with love.
Prayer
Lord, help me to see others as my family in Christ. May I live with kindness, patience, and a heart ready to love. Guide me to look for Your presence in my heart and actions, so that I may bring Your peace and light into the world. Amen.
Reflection Questions
- How can I practice seeing others as fellow Christians in my daily life?
- What small actions can I take to bring God’s kingdom into my relationships and choices?
- When have I noticed God’s presence in my heart or actions recently?
- How can I live with a spirit of readiness, staying open to God’s call each day?
Homilies and Reflections for Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2
Order of Preachers: No Doubt, No Argument
In this reflection from The Order of Preachers for Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2, Sr. Elyse Ramirez speaks on Jesus’ teaching that the kingdom of God is “in your midst.” When we ask when God’s kingdom will arrive in a visible way, Jesus’ answer reminds us: the kingdom starts within us. Sr. Elyse emphasizes that it’s our responsibility to make God’s reign visible by living lives of mercy, compassion, and healing. Together, as disciples, we create a world where God’s presence is undeniable, embodying the kingdom through our actions and faith in everyday life.
USCCB Reflection: All Are One in Christ
In this USCCB video reflection for Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2, Deacon Harold Burke-Sivers discusses St. Paul’s view on spiritual fatherhood and unity in Christ. Paul sees Onesimus, once a slave, as a son and brother through faith. Deacon Burke-Sivers explains that in ancient times, servitude differed from the brutal, modern concept of slavery. While Paul doesn’t explicitly condemn servitude, he calls all believers to unity in Christ, urging us to treat one another with love and respect. In Christ, there is no division—everyone is equal in the family of God.
Dynamic Catholic: How to Crash Your Life
This reflection from Matthew Kelly, shared for Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2, encourages us to be fully present. Jesus tells the Pharisees that the kingdom of God is not something far off to look for; it is “in your midst.” God is found in the present moment—not in the past or future. Dwelling too much on the past or worrying about the future can distract us from God, like driving while always looking in the rear-view mirror. Kelly reminds us to focus on those around us and not be distracted by worries or technology.
Word on Fire: Embracing Transformation
Bishop Robert Barron interprets the gospel for Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time, which warns of the unexpected coming of the Son of Man, Jesus Christ. He explains that this event is not solely good news because it demands a radical transformation: anything in life that opposes Jesus, who embodies life, truth, and the way, must be relinquished. The coming of Christ necessitates the abandonment of false truths and ways, urging us to fully surrender our lives to Him and renounce all that contradicts His teachings. This perspective highlights the profound spiritual preparation required as we anticipate the Lord’s second coming.
Questions and Answers for Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2
What date is Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2?
The next date is Thursday November 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 Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1.
What are the Mass readings for Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2?
The Mass readings for Thursday November 12, 2026 are:
First Reading – Philemon 7-20: Paul’s Plea for Onesimus
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 146: The Lord’s Enduring Care
Gospel – Luke 17:20-25: Unseen Kingdom Revealed
What is Paul asking Philemon to do in the first reading for Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2?
Paul is asking Philemon to forgive and accept Onesimus as a brother in faith. Paul hopes Philemon will treat Onesimus with kindness and see him as a fellow Christian rather than a servant.
Why is forgiveness important in the reading from Philemon?
Forgiveness brings unity and peace. By asking Philemon to forgive Onesimus, Paul shows that true Christian love requires letting go of past hurts and welcoming others as family in Christ.
What does it mean to be a Christian brother or sister?
Being a Christian brother or sister means treating others with love and respect because of our shared faith. In the reading, Paul encourages Philemon to see Onesimus not by his past status but by his new life in Christ.
How does the theme of sacrificial love appear in Paul’s message?
Paul offers to repay any debt Onesimus owes to show sacrificial love. He reminds us that sometimes we are called to make sacrifices to help others and show them Christ’s love.
What does Jesus mean by saying the kingdom of God is not something to observe in the Gospel for Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2?
Jesus teaches that the kingdom of God is within each person and is shown by how we live. This means we should look for God’s presence in our hearts and actions, not in outward signs.
How can we recognize the kingdom of God in our lives?
We recognize the kingdom of God by living with kindness, peace, and faith. When we see love and mercy around us, we can see a sign of God’s kingdom.
What does it mean to be ready for the coming of the Son of Man in the Gospel for Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 ?
Being ready means living each day with faith and trust in God. Jesus wants His followers to stay faithful, prepared to meet Him anytime by doing good and avoiding sin.
Why does Jesus mention rejection in His teaching to the disciples?
Jesus reminds the disciples that just as He will be rejected, they too may face challenges. This teaches us that following Jesus may bring hardship, but we are called to remain faithful.
How can these readings for Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 help us in our daily lives?
The readings remind us to forgive others, see each person as a family member in Christ, and stay ready to live by God’s ways. They encourage us to show love, be patient in hardship, and seek God’s kingdom within us.
What is the main message of Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2?
The main message is to live with love, readiness, and faithfulness. We are called to forgive, show kindness, and stay focused on God’s kingdom, which begins in our hearts and actions.
Finding Faith and Unity in Christ
On Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2, the readings encourage us to reflect on faith, forgiveness, and God’s presence within us. St. Paul’s letter to Philemon shows the power of forgiveness and unity. Paul urges Philemon to welcome back Onesimus, his servant, not as a slave but as a brother in Christ. This message asks us to look beyond past mistakes and differences. It challenges us to see everyone as part of the same Christian family. Paul’s appeal reminds us that, in faith, we are called to unity and to show mercy to one another.
The Gospel reading from Luke shifts our focus to the kingdom of God. Jesus teaches that God’s kingdom is not something we search for outside ourselves. Instead, it is within each of us. We are called to let God’s presence grow in our hearts and in our actions. The kingdom is shown through our daily choices, acts of kindness, and mercy. Jesus’ words remind us that we do not need to look for God far away. God’s presence is already here, shaping our lives if we open our hearts and live with faith.
Both readings for Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 also call for faithful readiness. Paul’s letter asks Philemon to be ready to respond to God’s call for unity and love. Jesus tells His followers to stay prepared, as no one knows when they will meet God. This readiness is about living with faith and kindness each day, not only in big moments but in small, everyday acts of love and mercy. Each choice we make can reveal God’s presence to others. We are called to live fully with God, showing kindness and mercy to those around us.
Your Turn
On Thursday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2, we are reminded to live with mercy, kindness, and faith. Take time to reflect on today’s readings. How do you see God’s kingdom within yourself or in others? Are there relationships where forgiveness or unity is needed?
Think about how you can show kindness in small ways. We would love to hear your thoughts. Share your own experiences with forgiveness, faith, or readiness in the comments. Let’s encourage one another as we grow in faith together.
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