Thursday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time

• First Reading – 1 Samuel 18:6-9; 19:1-7: Saul’s envy towards David grows due to the women’s praises. Jonathan, valuing David, warns and advocates for him, reminding Saul of David’s loyalty and service, averting his wrongful death.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 56: Amidst oppression and relentless foes, I find solace in God who records my struggles. Trusting in Him, fear dissipates; His deliverance allows me to walk in His light gratefully.
• Gospel – Mark 3:7-12: Jesus, accompanied by His disciples, retreated to the sea, attracting vast crowds from Galilee, Judea, Jerusalem, and surrounding regions. He instructed His disciples to ready a boat to manage the overwhelming crowd. Many sought healing, pressing in to touch Him. Unclean spirits, recognizing Him, proclaimed His divine sonship, which He sternly cautioned them to keep secret.

He told his disciples to have a boat ready for him because of the crowd, so that they would not crush him. He had cured many and, as a result, those who had diseases were pressing upon him to touch him.

Mark 3:9-10

The readings for Thursday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 explore themes of jealousy, loyalty, and the healing presence of Jesus. In both the Old Testament and Gospel passages, we see the effects of human emotions and the power of faith in God’s presence.

• Jealousy’s Destructive Power: In 1 Samuel, Saul becomes jealous of David’s success and popularity. This jealousy begins to consume him, showing how unchecked envy can lead to destructive thoughts and actions.
• Friendship and Loyalty: Jonathan’s loyalty to David is highlighted as he speaks to his father, Saul, on David’s behalf. Jonathan’s actions remind us of the importance of standing up for friends and protecting them from harm.
• Fear and Anxiety: Saul’s fear of David’s growing popularity causes him to act irrationally. This reflects how fear can disrupt our lives and relationships if we let it grow unchecked.
• Jesus’ Healing Presence: In Mark’s Gospel, crowds follow Jesus, seeking healing and comfort. The people’s eagerness to be near Jesus reminds us of His ability to bring hope and healing to those in need.
• Faith and Trust: The crowds believe in Jesus’ power to heal and travel from far distances to see Him. Their determination teaches us the importance of faith and seeking God’s help in difficult times.
• God’s Protection: Despite Saul’s jealousy, David is protected by Jonathan’s intervention and God’s presence in his life. This theme highlights God’s care for those who trust in Him, even in challenging situations.

These themes for Thursday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 encourage us to examine our hearts and our responses to difficult emotions. They remind us of the healing power of faith and the importance of seeking God’s presence and protection.

The reflections for Thursday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 lead us to examine key attitudes of the heart—how we respond to others’ successes, the importance of faith-filled determination, and how we seek God’s healing. The readings present the story of Saul’s jealousy over David and the crowd’s eagerness to approach Jesus for healing. Together, these passages invite us to reflect on the qualities that hinder or strengthen our relationship with God and with others. As we journey through these reflections, let us open our hearts to see how God calls us to live with peace, faith, and compassion.

Overcoming Jealousy and Embracing Friendship

In the first reading for Thursday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2, Saul’s growing jealousy of David drives a wedge between them. Saul allows envy to consume him, interpreting David’s success as a threat rather than a blessing. Instead of seeing David as a friend and ally, Saul views him with suspicion. This jealousy not only harms their relationship but also takes away Saul’s inner peace. He becomes trapped in his envy, unable to appreciate David’s loyalty and service.

Saul’s jealousy reminds us how harmful envy can be. When we feel threatened by others’ achievements or gifts, it is easy to let jealousy take root. This can cloud our ability to see the good in others, affecting our relationships and even our own happiness. Choosing instead to appreciate and support those around us can open the door to friendship and unity. If Saul had seen David as an ally rather than a rival, their relationship could have been one of mutual respect and trust.

This reading encourages us to let go of jealousy and embrace a spirit of acceptance. By focusing on others’ positive qualities rather than comparing ourselves, we foster a community of encouragement and love. Letting go of envy helps us find peace within ourselves and strengthens our bonds with those around us.

Seeking Jesus with Faith and Determination

In the Gospel for Thursday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2, crowds from distant regions come to see Jesus, driven by their faith in His power to heal. Despite the challenges of travel, people make the journey because they believe Jesus can offer what they need most. Their actions show us the strength of true faith—a faith that doesn’t shy away from obstacles but seeks God’s help wholeheartedly.

This determination of the crowd can inspire us in our own faith journey. Often, we face challenges or discouragements that make us hesitate to seek God’s help. The crowds in this passage remind us that faith means approaching Jesus with confidence, even when it requires effort. We are encouraged to bring our worries, struggles, and desires to God, trusting in His willingness to listen and act.

This Gospel message challenges us to be persistent and sincere in our faith. Just as the crowd was willing to travel far to see Jesus, we too are called to approach God with a spirit of expectation. When we come to Him with faith, we open ourselves to the peace, comfort, and guidance only He can provide.

Embracing God’s Healing and Compassion

Both the first reading and the Gospel for Thursday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 highlight God’s compassion and healing. While Saul is caught up in jealousy, David continues to act faithfully, trusting in God’s care. In the Gospel, Jesus’ compassion for the crowd shows how God meets us in our needs. The people flock to Jesus not only for physical healing but also because they recognize the peace and hope He offers.

This theme of God’s healing invites us to seek His presence in our lives. Whether we struggle with jealousy, doubt, or physical hardships, we can come to God with confidence in His love and compassion. Jesus’ response to the crowd reminds us that God’s love is never limited. He welcomes us all, eager to provide the healing and comfort we seek.

Reflecting on these readings, we are reminded to trust God with our needs and struggles. By approaching Him with open hearts, we allow His healing to transform us. Just as Jesus welcomed the crowd, God invites us to bring our own burdens to Him, knowing that He will meet us with understanding and care.

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As we conclude these reflections for Thursday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2, we are reminded to release any envy, to trust in Jesus’ healing, and to seek Him with an open heart. Saul’s story warns us against jealousy, while the crowd’s eagerness encourages us to approach God with confidence. May we grow in love for others and deepen our faith, trusting that God’s grace will guide us and give us peace.

Prayer

Lord, help me to let go of envy and seek peace in my relationships. Give me the faith to approach You with my needs, knowing You are always ready to listen. Strengthen my heart to follow Your ways with trust and compassion. Amen.

Reflection Questions

• How has jealousy impacted my relationships in the past, and how can I work to let it go?
• What can I learn from the determination of the crowd who sought Jesus, even at great effort?
• In what areas of my life do I need to approach God with more trust and openness?
• How can I show compassion to those around me, following Jesus’ example of healing and care?

Mark’s Good News: A Secret Message

In Mark’s Gospel for Thursday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2, Jesus keeps his identity as the Son of God secret, even as evil spirits recognize Him. Fr. Richard Rohr points out that this caution against revealing this identity is seen throughout Mark’s Gospel. This secrecy may be to avoid being seen merely as a magician or wonder worker, focusing instead on His message of love and suffering service. But perhaps Jesus’ “secret message” is about a transformative, nonviolent revolution, often missed by institutional Christianity. The key question Jesus poses, “Who do you say that I am?” challenges us to recognize God’s active presence in our lives and the power of unconditional love.

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

The next date is Thursday January 22, 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 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1.

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

The Mass readings for Thursday January 22, 2026 are:
First Reading – 1 Samuel 18:6-9; 19:1-7: Saul’s Jealousy and Jonathan’s Intervention
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 56: Trust in God Amid Adversity
Gospel – Mark 3:7-12: Multitudes Follow Jesus

What causes Saul to become jealous of David?

On Thursday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2, Saul’s jealousy begins when he hears people praising David for his victories. Saul becomes threatened by David’s growing popularity and success, leading to jealousy that stirs up anger and fear in him. This shows us the danger of letting jealousy grow instead of being happy for others’ achievements.

Why is Jonathan loyal to David despite his father’s anger?

Jonathan is loyal to David because they are close friends, and he sees David as a person of integrity. Jonathan values this friendship and tries to protect David by talking to his father, Saul. Jonathan’s loyalty shows us the importance of standing by those we care about, even when it’s difficult.

What lesson can we learn from Saul’s jealousy in the first reading for Thursday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2?

Saul’s jealousy shows how harmful envy can be to our relationships and inner peace. Instead of seeing David as a threat, Saul could have accepted him as a friend and ally. This teaches us to let go of jealousy and focus on positive qualities in others.

How does Jonathan’s action reflect true friendship?

Jonathan’s action of speaking up for David shows true friendship because he puts David’s well-being above his own safety. His courage to confront Saul for David’s sake highlights the importance of loyalty and support in friendships. True friendship means standing by others, even when it may cost us something.

Why do the people in the Gospel for Thursday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 follow Jesus?

The people follow Jesus because they have faith in His ability to heal and help them. Many come from long distances, showing their strong desire for hope and healing. This reminds us of the importance of seeking God’s help in times of need and trusting that He can provide comfort and healing.

What does Jesus’ reaction to the crowds show us?

Jesus’ response to the crowds shows His compassion and willingness to help those who come to Him. Despite being surrounded by many people, He welcomes them and cares for their needs. This reminds us that Jesus is always ready to listen to us and help us.

What does the Gospel for Thursday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 tell us about the importance of faith?

The Gospel on Thursday of the 2nd Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2 shows that the people’s faith in Jesus draws them closer to Him. Their faith encourages them to seek Jesus, even from far away. This tells us that faith helps us connect with God and seek His guidance and healing in our lives.