13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
Sunday July 1, 2029
First Reading: 2 Kings 4:8-11, 14-16A
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 89
Second Reading: Romans 6:3-4, 8-11
Gospel: Matthew 10:37-42
Key Theme: Faithful discipleship
Focus: Putting Christ first
Summary: The readings show the importance of welcoming others, trusting God, and following Jesus with commitment. Baptism calls Christians to leave sin behind and live a new life centered on Christ.
Challenge: Put faith before comfort, fear, or approval from others. Look for simple ways to show kindness and support people who serve God.
Action Step: Do one small act of kindness this week for someone in need. Offer help, encouragement, or hospitality without expecting anything back.
Verse to Remember: “Whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.” (Matthew 10:39)
Choosing to Follow Christ
The 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A brings us readings that speak about welcome, faith, and commitment. Each passage reminds us that following God changes how we live. It calls us to trust His promises, live in new life, and place Him first in our hearts.
In the first reading, we hear of a woman who welcomed the prophet Elisha into her home. Her kindness was rewarded with the gift of a son. This shows how God blesses those who open their lives to others. Hospitality is more than a simple act. It becomes a way to share God’s love.
The Gospel message is about choosing Christ above all else. Jesus tells his followers that their love for him must come before even family ties. This is not easy, but he also promises that even small acts of kindness, like giving a cup of water, have great value.
On the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, we are reminded that faith touches both big choices and small actions. To follow Jesus is to place him at the center and to live with open hearts. Every gesture of love becomes part of our call as disciples.
Mass Readings for the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
- First Reading – 2 Kings 4:8-11, 14-16A: A influential woman in Shunem offers hospitality to the prophet Elisha. In gratitude, Elisha promises her a son, despite her husband’s advanced age.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 89: I’ll forever sing the Lord’s promises; His kindness is everlasting. Blessed are those who walk in His light and find joy in His justice. He’s our strength, favor, and protective shield.
- Second Reading – Romans 6:3-4, 8-11: Through baptism, we join Christ in His death and resurrection, signifying our new life. As Christ is free from death, we too, should live free from sin, and for God.
- Gospel – Matthew 10:37-42: Jesus instructs his apostles that true discipleship requires them to prioritize their love and devotion to him above even their closest family relationships. He also emphasizes the significance of receiving and supporting those who come in his name, assuring that even the smallest acts of kindness towards his disciples will be rewarded.
The readings above are for lectionary cycle A. For other years see the links below:
13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
Whoever finds his life will lose it, and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it.
Matthew 10:39
Themes for the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
The readings for the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A show the importance of faith, hospitality, and commitment to Jesus. They teach that following Christ means putting Him first and trusting in His promises.
- Putting Jesus First: Jesus calls His followers to love Him more than their own families. This means faith should guide all choices and actions.
- Hospitality and Generosity: The woman in Shunem welcomed Elisha into her home, and he promised her a son. This shows that kindness and generosity bring blessings.
- Baptism and New Life: Paul explains that through baptism, Christians die to sin and rise to a new life. This means they should live for God and avoid sin.
- Sacrifice and Reward: Jesus teaches that following Him comes with sacrifices. But even small acts of kindness in His name will not go unnoticed.
- Trusting in God’s Promises: The woman in Shunem did not expect to have a child, but God made it happen. This shows that God fulfills promises in unexpected ways.
- Serving Others: Jesus says that welcoming His messengers is like welcoming Him. Helping others, even in small ways, is part of Christian life.
The 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A reminds Christians to trust in God and follow Jesus completely. It shows that faith requires both commitment and love in action.
Resources for the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
- Choosing Faith When Friends Disagree Lesson Plan
- The Second Book of Kings: A Room for the Prophet
- Psalm 89: Singing of the Lord’s Faithfulness
- The Letter to the Romans: Buried with Christ, Raised with Him
- The Gospel of Matthew: True Loyalty to Christ
- Download a handout for the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
Choosing Faith When Friends Disagree
Time Required: 60 to 90 minutes
Age Group: Grades 6 through 12
Group Size: 8 to 30 youth, small groups of 4 to 6 work best for discussion
Scripture: Matthew 10:37-42
Core Message: Following Jesus sometimes means making difficult choices and staying faithful even when others disagree.
Themes: Discipleship, courage, Christian friendship, peer pressure, kindness, daily faith, carrying your cross, human dignity, service, trust in Jesus, welcoming others
Energy Level: Moderate
Materials Needed: Bible, paper slips, bowl, whipped cream, paper plates or trays, wrapped candy, towels or wipes, pens or pencils
Setting: Youth room, classroom, parish hall, retreat center
This lesson connects well to the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A because the Gospel reading from Matthew 10:37-42 asks believers to put Jesus first in their lives. Young people often struggle with peer pressure, fear of rejection, and wanting to fit in with friends. This lesson helps youth understand that discipleship sometimes means making difficult choices and standing apart from the crowd. Through discussion, reflection, and practical challenges, youth are encouraged to live their faith with courage, kindness, and trust in Jesus during everyday situations at school, online, and with friends.
The Second Book of Kings: A Room for the Prophet
In 2 Kings, the stories of prophets show how God works through them to care for His people. The woman of Shunem shows kindness to Elisha, and in return she receives the promise of new life. This scene during the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A highlights God’s blessing upon those who show hospitality and generosity.
The larger message of 2 Kings is about God’s power working through chosen messengers. Elisha performs miracles that bring hope, life, and healing. The birth of a child to this woman continues the theme that God brings life even when it seems impossible. It points to God’s faithfulness to those who trust and welcome His presence.
Psalm 89: Singing of the Lord’s Faithfulness
Psalm 89 praises God’s unshakable promises and mercy. On the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, it reminds us that God’s people are blessed when they walk in His ways. Joy is found in His light, strength, and protection. The psalm teaches that true security is rooted in God’s covenant love.
This psalm speaks of God’s promises to David and his descendants. It is part of a larger song that holds both praise and lament when God’s promises seem delayed. It shows that even in doubt, God’s faithfulness endures. His covenant is everlasting, giving hope that His kingdom will remain.
The Letter to the Romans: Buried with Christ, Raised with Him
In Romans, Paul teaches about the meaning of baptism. For the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, this passage explains how baptism unites believers with Christ in both death and resurrection. It shows that the Christian life is about leaving sin behind and living in newness of life.
The wider message of Romans is about salvation through faith and the new life it brings. Paul shows how God’s grace frees us from sin’s power. In this reading, he emphasizes that Christians are not passive but called to live differently. Life with Christ means living for God’s purposes, not our old ways.
The Gospel of Matthew: True Loyalty to Christ
The Gospel of Matthew often highlights the demands of discipleship. In this passage for the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, Jesus teaches that following him comes before family ties or personal comfort. He also shows that welcoming his messengers is the same as welcoming him.
The larger theme in Matthew is about the Kingdom of Heaven and what it means to belong to it. Jesus calls for total commitment, but he also shows that even small acts of kindness are part of God’s kingdom. The Gospel stresses both the challenge and the blessing of discipleship.
Homilies and Commentaries for the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
Intentional Limitation
Fr. Mike Schmitz invites us to ask a simple but important question: What are you living for? He explains that having endless choices can leave us stuck. Real freedom comes when we choose what matters most and let go of the rest. Love, commitment, and a full life all require saying no to some good things so we can fully say yes to the best thing, which is following Christ.
The 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A reminds us that Jesus calls us to put him first, even above our own plans and desires. Fr. Mike compares this to marriage, religious life, and other lasting commitments, where love grows through faithful choices. He encourages us to stop holding on to every option “just in case” and instead live with purpose. Remembering that we have died to sin through baptism gives us the freedom to let Christ lead our lives each day.
No Fear of Death
The greatest challenge of the spiritual life is learning to love God above every other good. Bishop Robert Barron explains that the things of this world, including family, work, and creation, are truly good gifts from God. Trouble begins when we treat any of those gifts as the highest good. They are meant to lead us to God, not take his place.
As we reflect on the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, Bishop Barron points to Jesus’ striking words about loving him more than even our closest family members. This is not a call to love our families less, but to keep God first so every other love is rightly ordered. He reminds us that real freedom comes from detachment, trusting God above all else, and refusing to let fear or worldly attachments rule our lives.
Illuminating the Journey
Celeste Mueller reflects on how the meaning of baptism becomes clearer over a lifetime. She shares how the same Scripture has spoken to her in different ways through youth, times of loss, family life, and growing older. Each stage brought a deeper understanding that following Christ means sharing in both his dying and rising, not only at the end of life but in everyday moments.
The reflection reminds us that the Christian life is a journey of ongoing growth and surrender. Celeste Mueller explains that every struggle, every joy, and every new beginning can draw us closer to Christ and help us live more fully in his resurrection. As we celebrate the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, she encourages us to let go of what we cling to, trust God’s work within us, and allow our hearts to become more open to his love each day.
Total Self-Gift
What are you holding on to that keeps you from giving yourself fully to God? Tom Hellenbrand, SJ, reflects on the surprising truth that we find real life by giving ourselves away. While the world often encourages people to chase comfort, possessions, or constant change, Jesus points to a different path. Lasting joy comes through love, commitment, and faithful self-giving.
Hellenbrand explains that Jesus is the perfect example of this way of living. He gave himself completely to the Father, not losing who he was but showing the fullness of love. As we reflect on the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, the reflection invites us to consider how we are offering our own lives to God through our daily choices, relationships, and vocation. By giving ourselves generously in love, we become more fully the people God created us to be.
Receive Your Reward
Christian hospitality is more than being polite. It is a way of welcoming Christ through the people God places in our lives. The reflection highlights Jesus’ teaching that those who receive a prophet or a righteous person share in that blessing. Simple acts of welcome and kindness have lasting value in God’s kingdom.
As we reflect on the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, Matthew Kelly encourages us to ask who God is inviting us to welcome with greater openness and generosity. That person may be at home, at work, at school, or at church. The reflection reminds us that faith is shown not only in what we believe but also in how we receive others. A welcoming heart reflects God’s love and helps build a community where people are seen, valued, and encouraged.
The Cost Of True Hospitality
The Gospel begins with strong words about putting Jesus first, carrying the cross, and giving up our lives for his sake. Fr. Friedman explains that these challenging teachings are followed by simple examples of welcome and kindness. A cup of water, a warm greeting, or an act of compassion may seem small, but they show what it means to love as Jesus loves.
The 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A reminds us that real hospitality often asks us to change our plans and put another person’s needs before our own. Fr. Friedman recalls a poor man who offered him a glass of water, a simple gift that left a lasting impression. The reflection shows that welcoming others is not always easy, but it is one way we follow Christ. In serving those in need, we walk the path of love that Jesus has shown us.
Carry Our Cross
A reflection or the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A from Jeff Cavins. What happened to Jesus will happen to his followers. Christ had to carry his cross and so we too, are called to pick up our cross and follow him. It means we will have die to ourselves. “He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for my sake will find it.”
To Find Our Lives
A reflection or the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A from Scott Hahn. “The Liturgy this week continues to instruct us in the elements of discipleship. We’re told that even the most humble among us have a share in the mission Christ gives to His Church. We’re not all called to the ministry of the Apostles, or to be prophets like Elisha in today’s First Reading. But each of us is called to a holy life.”
Reflection for the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
The 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A invites us to reflect on faith, commitment, and generosity. The readings show how hospitality brings blessings, how putting God first shapes our lives, and how faith leads to new life. These lessons challenge us to trust in God, serve others, and follow Jesus without hesitation.
The Blessings of Hospitality
The 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A highlights the importance of welcoming others with kindness. The woman in the first reading recognizes Elisha as a man of God and offers him a place to stay. She does not ask for anything in return, but her generosity brings an unexpected blessing. Elisha promises that she will have a son, something she had not even dared to hope for.
This story shows that acts of kindness often lead to blessings. The woman did not give to receive; she gave because she saw a need. In return, God granted her a gift beyond her expectations. This reminds us that when we open our hearts and homes to others, we allow God to work in unexpected ways.
Hospitality is more than just sharing food or shelter. It is about welcoming others with love, respect, and an open heart. Jesus also speaks about this in the Gospel when He says that those who welcome His messengers welcome Him. Even small acts of kindness matter in God’s eyes.
The 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A encourages us to think about how we treat others. Are we open to welcoming people into our lives? Do we recognize the presence of God in those we meet? When we show kindness without expecting anything in return, we reflect God’s love in the world.
Choosing God Above All
The Gospel for the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A presents a difficult teaching. Jesus says that anyone who loves family more than Him is not worthy of Him. At first, this may seem harsh, but Jesus is not asking us to reject our loved ones. Instead, He is calling us to put God first in our lives.
Loving God above all does not mean neglecting family. It means that our faith should shape every part of our lives, including how we love others. When God comes first, our relationships become stronger because they are built on truth and love. True discipleship requires commitment, even when it is challenging.
Jesus also talks about the rewards of following Him. Those who welcome His messengers, even with something as simple as a cup of water, will be blessed. This shows that small acts of faithfulness matter. Discipleship is not just about big sacrifices; it is also about daily choices to serve God.
The 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A reminds us to examine our priorities. Do we put God first, or do other things take His place? Are we willing to follow Jesus, even when it is difficult? When we choose God above all, He gives us the strength to live as true disciples.
Faith That Leads to New Life
The second reading for the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A speaks about baptism. Paul explains that through baptism, we die to sin and rise to new life in Christ. This means that Christians are called to live differently, leaving behind their old ways and following God.
Baptism is not just a ritual; it is a change in the way we live. Just as Christ rose from the dead, believers are called to walk in newness of life. This does not mean life will be easy, but it means that sin should no longer have power over us. We belong to God now.
The other readings also show examples of new life through faith. The woman in the first reading receives the unexpected gift of a son. In the Gospel, Jesus calls His followers to a deeper commitment. Faith brings change, whether through a miraculous blessing or a new way of living.
The 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A is a reminder that faith requires action. Are we living as people who have been made new? Do we trust God enough to let go of old ways and follow Him fully? When we embrace the new life Christ offers, we experience the joy of walking with Him.
The 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A reminds us that faith is more than words—it is action. When we welcome others, put God first, and live out our baptism, we grow in our relationship with Him. May we open our hearts to His call and trust Him in all things.
Prayer
Lord, help me to welcome others with kindness. Teach me to put You first in my life. Strengthen my faith so I can follow You without fear. Lead me to live out my baptism every day. May my heart always be open to Your will. Amen.
Reflection Questions for the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
- How can I show hospitality to others in my daily life?
- Have I ever received an unexpected blessing after helping someone?
- What does it mean to put God first in my life?
- Are there things I prioritize over my relationship with God?
- How do I respond when following Jesus feels difficult?
- In what ways has my faith changed the way I live?
- What small acts of kindness can I do to serve others?
- How can I strengthen my commitment to God?
- What does baptism mean to me, and how do I live it out?
- How can I trust God more in uncertain situations?
Social Media Graphics and Bulletin Artwork for the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
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A Cup of Welcome
This image, inspired by the Gospel for the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, is now available for download. It captures the simple act of offering water, a symbol of kindness and discipleship.
Perfect for parish bulletins, newsletters, and teaching resources, it can help illustrate the call to serve others with even the smallest gestures of love.
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Only current paid subscribers have the rights to use the artwork.
Romans 6:8
Music Suggestions for the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
The music selections for the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A reflect key themes from the readings. Some songs focus on answering Jesus’ call and putting Him first, just as the Gospel teaches. Others highlight trust in God’s promises, like the woman in the first reading who welcomed Elisha. There are also hymns about serving others and living a life of faith, which connect to the message of hospitality and discipleship. Some selections emphasize carrying our cross and following Christ, showing that faith requires commitment. Together, these songs encourage worshippers to trust in God, serve others, and follow Jesus with their whole hearts.
- Come Follow Me by Gael Berberick & Barney Walker
- Come, Now Is the Time to Worship by Brian Doerksen
- Forever I Will Sing by Ed Bolduc
- Forever I Will Sing by Tom Kendzia
- I Will Follow by Chris Tomlin
- If God is For Us by John Foley
- Jesus, My Everything by Matt Maher
- Lead Me Lord by John D. Becker
- Lift High the Cross by Sydney H. Nicholson
- Lord, Whose Love in Humble Service by Albert F. Bayly
- Only This I Want by Dan Schutte
- Sent Forth by God’s Blessing by Omer Westendorf
- Servant Song by Donna Marie McGargill
- Sing of the Lord’s Goodness by Ernest Sands
- Take Up Your Cross by Jamie Cortez
- The Servant Song by Richard Gillard & Betty C. Pulkingham
- The Summons by John L. Bell
- These Alone are Enough by Dan Schutte
- Whatsoever You Do by Willard F. Jabusch, Robert J. Batastini & Owen Alstott
Music directors and musicians can use these selections to help bring the themes of the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A to life. These hymns can deepen the congregation’s reflection on faith, trust, and service. Try incorporating some of these songs into worship, and share your own suggestions in the comments.
Questions and Answers for the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
Why does Jesus say to love Him more than family?
Jesus is not telling people to stop loving their families. He is saying that following Him should be the most important part of life. Faith in God should guide every decision, even when it is difficult.
What does it mean to take up our cross?
Taking up the cross means accepting the struggles that come with being a Christian. It means trusting God even when life is hard. It also means choosing what is right, even when it is not easy.
Why was the woman in the first reading blessed with a son?
She showed kindness to Elisha without expecting anything in return. Her generosity was rewarded because she trusted and welcomed a man of God. This shows that God blesses those who act with love and faith.
How does the second reading connect to the Gospel?
The second reading talks about dying to sin and living for God. The Gospel talks about putting Jesus first. Both show that faith in Jesus changes the way people live.
What does the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A teach about hospitality?
The first reading shows that welcoming others can bring unexpected blessings. The Gospel reminds people that even small acts of kindness matter. Hospitality is about seeing God in others and helping those in need.
What does it mean to live for God?
Living for God means making choices based on faith. It means avoiding sin and treating others with love. It also means trusting that God’s way is best, even when it is hard.
How can I apply the message of the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A to my life?
You can choose to put God first in your daily life. You can show kindness to others, even in small ways. You can trust that following Jesus, even when it is difficult, will lead to true happiness.
What does Jesus mean when He says that whoever welcomes His disciples welcomes Him?
Jesus is saying that when people help His followers, they are helping Him. Every act of kindness to someone in need is also an act of love for God.
Why does Paul talk about dying and rising in baptism?
Paul is explaining that baptism changes a person. Just as Jesus died and rose again, those who are baptized leave behind their old life and begin a new one with God.
How does the 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A challenge us?
It challenges people to put God first, even when it is difficult. It reminds people to trust in God’s promises. It also encourages people to be generous and to welcome others.
Why does Jesus say even giving a cup of water is important?
Jesus is showing that no act of kindness is too small. Helping others in any way is part of following Him. Even the smallest good deeds matter to God.
What if I struggle to put God first?
Many people struggle with this. The important thing is to keep trying and to pray for help. Making small daily choices to follow Jesus can help build a stronger faith.
Following Jesus with Trust
The 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A teaches about faith, trust, and putting Jesus first. The Gospel reminds believers that following Christ requires commitment, even when it is difficult. Jesus says that loving Him must come before family and personal comfort. True disciples are willing to make sacrifices for their faith.
The first reading tells the story of a generous woman who welcomes the prophet Elisha into her home. She expects nothing in return, but God rewards her kindness with a son. This shows that acts of love and hospitality do not go unnoticed. When people care for others, they take part in God’s work.
Paul’s message in the second reading explains that baptism brings new life. Those who follow Jesus are called to leave sin behind and live for God. The 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A reminds believers that their faith should shape their choices. Living for Christ means trusting Him, serving others, and staying faithful.
Your Turn
The 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A invites us to think about how we follow Jesus. Are we putting Him first in our lives? Are we showing kindness and trust like the woman who welcomed Elisha? These readings remind us that faith is more than words—it is about action.
Take some time to reflect on these lessons. How have you seen God’s blessings in your life when you have trusted Him? Have you made sacrifices for your faith? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation.
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