As an Amazon affiliate, this site earns from qualifying purchases.

Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2

Monday January 19, 2026

Daily Mass Readings for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2

  • 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.

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

Themes for the Readings for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2

For Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2, the themes from the Mass readings are:

  1. The Primacy of Obedience over Sacrifice: From 1 Samuel, the theme of obedience being more valuable than sacrifice is emphasized. Saul's disobedience to God's command and its consequences illustrate that God values obedience and faithfulness over ritualistic offerings.
  2. Consequences of Disobedience: Saul’s disobedience leads to his rejection as king. This theme underlines the serious consequences of not following God's will, especially for those in leadership positions.
  3. True Worship and Righteous Living: Psalm 50 focuses on God's desire for true obedience and righteous living rather than mere ritualistic sacrifices. It emphasizes internal devotion and adherence to God’s commandments over external religious practices.
  4. The Presence of Christ as a Time of Joy: In Mark’s Gospel, Jesus describes His presence with His disciples as a time for joy, not for fasting, likening it to the joy of a wedding celebration. This highlights the joy that comes from being in Christ’s presence.
  5. The New Covenant and Need for Renewal: Jesus’ metaphors of the unshrunken cloth and new wine in old wineskins illustrate the transformative nature of His teachings and the incompatibility of old religious structures with His new message. This theme calls for an openness to spiritual renewal and adaptation to embrace the new covenant He offers.
  6. Anticipating Times of Change: Jesus' reference to a future time for fasting after His departure indicates an awareness of changing circumstances in spiritual practices. This theme invites reflection on being adaptable and responsive to different spiritual seasons and needs.

Reflecting on these themes for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 encourages a deeper understanding of the importance of obedience to God, the joy of Christ's presence, the need for inner transformation, and the readiness to embrace new ways of living out one’s faith.

Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2
  • Save

Thoughts for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2

On the Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2, the liturgical readings invite us to reflect on the themes of obedience, newness, and the joyous presence of Christ. In the First Reading from 1 Samuel, we witness the consequences of King Saul’s disobedience and his preference for sacrifice over adherence to God's commands. This theme is echoed in Psalm 50, where God emphasizes the importance of true obedience over mere ritualistic offerings. These readings set the stage for a deeper understanding of the Gospel according to Mark.

In Mark 2:18-22, Jesus addresses a curious inquiry about fasting, contrasting the practices of His disciples with those of John the Baptist and the Pharisees. His response is not a dismissal of fasting as a discipline but a revelation of the present joy brought by His incarnation. Christ, the bridegroom, is among His people, and His presence invites a celebration akin to a wedding feast. This festive analogy challenges the conventional religious practices of the time, suggesting that the arrival of Jesus brings about a transformative newness that cannot be contained within the old frameworks.

The metaphor of new wine in old wineskins particularly illustrates the radical nature of Jesus' teachings. It conveys the idea that His message of salvation, grace, and the Kingdom of God cannot be confined within the existing religious structures and expectations. The new wine of Christ’s teaching requires new wineskins – a new understanding and a renewed heart.

The juxtaposition of these readings invites us to ask ourselves: Are we like Saul, clinging to our own understanding and practices, or are we open to the transformative presence of Christ in our lives? The Gospel calls us to recognize Jesus not just as another teacher or prophet but as the Incarnate Word of God, whose presence demands a response of joy and renewal. This reflection is particularly poignant in the context of the Eucharist, where we celebrate Christ’s presence among us.

In the Eucharist, we find the ultimate expression of joy and newness that Jesus speaks of in the Gospel. It is here that we are invited to set aside our old selves and embrace the new life offered in Christ. As we participate in the Eucharist, we are called to remember that Christ's presence is not just a historical event but a current reality that transforms our everyday lives.

As we go about our daily routines, especially in the seemingly ordinary time, we are challenged to live in the joyous awareness of Jesus' presence. This means embracing a faith that is not bound by old habits or mere ritualistic observance but is constantly renewed by the love and grace of Christ. It is an invitation to a deeper obedience – an obedience that springs from love and joy rather than duty or fear.

The readings for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time call us to embrace the newness of life in Christ, marked by joyful obedience and openness to the transformative power of His presence. As we reflect on these readings, we are reminded to live in the joy of the bridegroom’s presence, allowing His teachings to renew and reshape our hearts and lives.

Prayer

Jesus, I am overjoyed that you are in my life. You have shown me the love of the Father and the power of the Spirit. Keep me close to you every day. Amen.

Share the Good News!
Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2
  • Save

Homilies and Reflections
for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2

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.

Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2
  • Save

Frequently Asked Questions
for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2

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 PsalmPsalm 50: God Values Obedience Over Offerings
Gospel Mark 2:18-22: Jesus on Fasting and Renewal

What is the main message of Mark 2:18-22?

The gospel for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 emphasizes the need for renewal in spiritual practices, symbolized through the metaphors of new cloth on old garments and new wine in old wineskins.

How does the First Reading complement the Gospel for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2?

The First Reading from 1 Samuel 15:16-23 highlights the importance of obedience to God, which parallels the Gospel's call for a renewed understanding of spiritual practices.

What does the Responsorial Psalm for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 emphasize?

Psalm 50 underscores the value of obedience to God's commandments over mere ritualistic sacrifices.

What can we learn from the readings for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 about spiritual renewal?

The readings collectively teach the importance of being open to new ways of understanding and practicing our faith, emphasizing internal transformation over external rituals.

How can we apply the message of the gospel for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 to our daily lives?

We can embrace flexibility and openness in our spiritual journey, being willing to adapt and grow in our relationship with God and understanding of our faith.

What is the significance of Jesus' analogy of the bridegroom in the gospel for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2?

Jesus compares himself to a bridegroom to illustrate the joy and celebration present in His ministry, suggesting a shift from traditional fasting practices to a new era of grace.

How do the readings for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 guide us in our approach to religious traditions and practices?

The readings encourage us to re-evaluate our religious practices, ensuring they are rooted in a genuine relationship with God and not just carried out as traditions.

In what way does the theme of obedience play a role in these readings for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2?

Obedience is a key theme, as seen in Saul's story and the Psalm, highlighting the need to align our actions and practices with God’s will.

How can these readings for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 inspire our prayer life?

They invite us to seek a deeper, more personal connection with God in our prayers, moving beyond rote practices to heartfelt communication.

What lesson can we learn from Saul’s story in the First Reading for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2?

Saul's story teaches us that true leadership and discipleship involve humility, obedience, and prioritizing God's command over personal gain or appearances.

How can we reflect on these readings for Monday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2?

We can meditate on embracing the new life Christ offers, being open to the transformative power of the sacrament, and applying the lessons of obedience and renewal in our daily lives.

Join our email list to receive weekly emails with Catholic reflections and more.

Comments

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Copy link