Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time

• First Reading – 1 Samuel 15:16-23: Saul, tasked by God to annihilate the Amalekites, disobeyed by keeping spoils. Samuel rebukes him, emphasizing obedience over sacrifice. Saul’s rebellion leads to his rejection as king by God.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 50: God rebukes not for lack of sacrifices, but for ignoring His commandments. He seeks true obedience and discipline, promising salvation to those who walk righteously.
• Gospel – Mark 2:18-22: Addressing questions about His disciples not fasting, Jesus likened their situation to a wedding celebration, where fasting is inappropriate while the bridegroom (Jesus) is present. He foresaw a time for fasting after His departure. He then used metaphors of unshrunken cloth on an old cloak and new wine in old wineskins to illustrate the incompatibility of His new teachings with old traditions, suggesting the need for renewal to accommodate His transformative message.

Lectionary Reference: 311

Upcoming dates: January 19, 2026, January 17, 2028, January 21, 2030, January 19, 2032

The disciples of John and of the Pharisees were accustomed to fast. People came to Jesus and objected, ‘Why do the disciples of John and the disciples of the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast?’

Mark 2:18

On Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2, the readings focus on themes of obedience to God, the importance of inner sincerity, and the call to embrace change in our faith journey. In 1 Samuel, Saul’s disobedience shows the cost of placing personal desires above God’s instructions, while in the Gospel, Jesus challenges traditional practices, encouraging a new perspective on following God.

• Obedience Over Sacrifice: In 1 Samuel, Samuel explains that obeying God is more valuable than sacrifices. This highlights that actions without true submission to God’s will miss the heart of faith.
• God’s Focus on the Heart: God values a sincere heart over outward rituals. Saul’s choice shows that God looks beyond external actions, seeking genuine commitment and love.
• Newness in Faith: Jesus speaks about new wine needing new wineskins, symbolizing openness to a renewed way of living out faith. He challenges us to let go of old habits that no longer serve our spiritual growth.
• Warning Against Stubbornness: Samuel describes stubbornness as a form of rejecting God’s guidance. This theme calls us to examine areas of our lives where we may resist God’s direction out of pride or habit.
• Change in Perspective: Jesus challenges the crowd to move beyond strict rules and focus on the essence of God’s message. This invites us to embrace a mindset open to the new ways God may work in our lives.
• Inner vs. Outer Worship: Both readings contrast inner sincerity with outward acts of worship. True devotion to God begins within and extends to our actions, shaping a faith that is genuine and pleasing to Him.

These themes on Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2, encourage us to focus on inner faith and obedience, rather than just outer actions. By being open to change and truly following God’s guidance, we draw closer to Him and strengthen our spiritual life.

On Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2, the readings challenge us to focus on the true essence of faith, to move beyond mere rituals, and to remain open to God’s ongoing work in our lives. In 1 Samuel, we learn that God values a sincere heart over outward rituals, while in the Gospel, Jesus encourages His listeners to look beyond rigid practices and embrace the purpose behind God’s message. These reflections help us examine our own faith, encouraging genuine obedience, openness to change, and a deeper connection with God.

A Sincere Heart Over Outward Actions

On Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2, the reading from 1 Samuel emphasizes that God values a sincere heart more than outward actions or rituals. In this passage, Saul’s outward act of sacrifice does not satisfy God because it is done out of disobedience rather than love. Samuel explains that God desires our obedience and sincerity over rituals that are performed without a true connection to His will. God is looking for genuine commitment, not just actions done for appearance or routine.

This reading reminds us that our faith should come from a place of love and sincerity. Simply going through the motions of religious practices or ceremonies does not draw us closer to God if we are not truly seeking Him. God sees beyond our actions to the intentions behind them, and He calls us to serve Him with honesty and a humble heart.

We can apply this message by examining our own motivations in our acts of faith. Do we perform our religious duties to seek praise, or are we genuinely trying to follow God’s will? Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2, encourages us to be sincere in our faith, knowing that God desires our honest love and obedience above all.

Moving Beyond Rules to God’s Message

The Gospel reading for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2, shows Jesus encouraging the crowd to look beyond strict rules and focus on the heart of God’s message. When questioned about fasting, Jesus explains that faith is not just about following specific practices, but about connecting with God’s love and purpose. The image of new wine in new wineskins teaches that faith is meant to grow and adapt rather than remain rigid and closed.

Jesus calls people to focus on what truly matters in their relationship with God. Rather than becoming stuck on traditions, we are invited to understand the meaning behind our faith and to allow it to shape our lives. The purpose of religion is not to impose restrictions but to guide us toward a deeper connection with God and a more loving approach to others.

This reflection encourages us to take a fresh look at our own practices and beliefs. Are we focusing on rules, or are we seeking to know God better? Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2, invites us to move past rigid rules and discover the true essence of our faith, which is to love God and follow His message with open hearts.

Openness to Change in Our Faith Journey

A third theme in the readings for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2, is the call to be open to change in our journey with God. The Gospel image of new wine needing new wineskins represents the need to welcome new growth and be adaptable in our faith. Jesus’ words suggest that being stuck in old ways or routines can limit our ability to experience the fullness of God’s grace and guidance.

Just as wineskins must be flexible to hold new wine, our hearts must also be open and ready to receive what God wants to offer us. Stubbornly clinging to old habits or ways of thinking can prevent us from experiencing new spiritual growth. God’s grace invites us to step out of our comfort zones, letting go of what holds us back, and embracing the changes that lead to a stronger relationship with Him.

This theme encourages us to consider areas in our lives where we may need to make room for new ways of thinking and acting. Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2, calls us to trust that God has more in store for us than we can imagine, if only we are willing to accept it. By being open to change, we make room for God’s work in our lives and grow deeper in our faith.

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Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 2, invites us to practice a faith that is sincere, adaptable, and centered on God’s love. As we reflect on these themes, may we strive to live with open hearts, focusing on what truly matters in our relationship with God. By embracing a genuine and open faith, we allow God to lead us toward a richer, more fulfilling spiritual life.

Prayer

Lord, help us to serve You with sincere hearts and a spirit open to Your guidance. Teach us to look beyond outward actions and to follow Your will with honesty and trust. May our faith grow each day as we welcome Your grace and seek to understand Your message. Amen.

Reflection Questions

• In what areas of my faith am I relying more on outward actions than a sincere heart?
• How can I focus on the true purpose behind my religious practices?
• Are there old habits or mindsets I need to let go of to embrace God’s work in my life?
• How can I make space in my heart to welcome God’s grace and grow in my faith?

USCCB Reflection: Embracing Spiritual Renewal and Change

This USCCB video reflection for Monday of the 2nd Week of Ordinary Time Cycle 2 draws parallels between life’s constant need for adjustment and renewal with the Gospel’s teachings. It suggests that just as we physically and spiritually evolve, we must also remain open to spiritual renewal. The reflection uses Jesus’ analogies of new patches on old garments and new wine in old wineskins to illustrate the necessity of being open to change and avoiding spiritual brittleness. It emphasizes the value of sacrifices and challenges in fostering growth and encourages a continual openness to the spirit.

What date is Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2?

The next date is Monday January 19, 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 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1.

What are the Mass readings for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2?

The Mass readings for Monday January 19, 2026 are:
First Reading  – 1 Samuel 15:16-23: Saul’s Disobedience and Rejection
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 50: God Values Obedience Over Offerings
Gospel – Mark 2:18-22: Jesus on Fasting and Renewal

What does it mean that obedience is better than sacrifice?

In the reading from 1 Samuel for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2, Samuel explains that obedience to God’s commands is more important than outward sacrifices. This means that God values a willing heart that follows His will above rituals or offerings done without true commitment.

Why was Saul’s behavior considered disobedient?

Saul was instructed to follow God’s command completely, but he chose his own way instead. This act shows that partial obedience is not enough; God desires that we fully listen to Him and trust His guidance.

What does Samuel mean by stubbornness being like idolatry?

Samuel warns that stubbornness and pride can lead us away from God, similar to how idols distract from true worship. This message calls us to stay open to God’s direction rather than holding on to our own ways.

What does it mean to have a sincere heart in worship?

A sincere heart in worship means approaching God with honesty and a genuine desire to please Him. It involves focusing more on living in a way that reflects God’s love rather than just performing outward rituals.

How does Jesus’ teaching about new wine and wineskins apply to us?

In the Gospel for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2, Jesus uses the example of new wine and new wineskins to show that following Him may require a new mindset. This teaching encourages us to let go of old patterns and to be open to how God may be calling us to grow.

Why does Jesus challenge old practices in the Gospel?

Jesus challenges old practices to help people focus on the true purpose of faith rather than just traditions. His words remind us that faith should come from a sincere heart rather than strict observance of rules.

How can I apply the theme of obedience in my daily life?

To live with obedience, we can make an effort to follow God’s teachings and seek His guidance in decisions. This involves listening to His word, trusting His plan, and avoiding choices based solely on personal preference.

Why does Jesus’ message about change matter for our faith journey?

Jesus’ message encourages us to grow and stay open to God’s grace. It reminds us that faith is not static but should continually lead us to new understanding and closer relationship with God.

What is the main lesson from the readings for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2?

The main lesson is that true faith requires a sincere heart, a willingness to obey God, and openness to change. The readings remind us that God values a genuine commitment to Him over mere actions or habits.