14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A

• First Reading – Zechariah 9:9-10: The prophet says a king will come to Jerusalem. He will be good and bring victory. But he will also be humble, riding on a donkey. He will bring peace to all nations. His rule will reach everywhere.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 145: We praise God for his kindness and mercy. He helps those who fall. He is faithful in all he does. His followers thank him and tell of his greatness.
• Second Reading – Romans 8:9, 11-13: If God’s Spirit lives in you, you belong to Christ. God will give you life through his Spirit. Do not follow sinful ways. Live by the Spirit, and you will have life.
• Gospel – Matthew 11:25-30: Jesus thanks God for showing his truth to humble people, not just the wise. He invites those who are tired and struggling to come to him. He will give them rest. His way is gentle and not too hard to carry.

Lectionary Reference: 100

Upcoming date: July 5, 2026, July 8, 2029, July 4, 2032

The readings for the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A show God’s kindness and mercy. They remind us that Jesus brings peace and calls us to trust in him.

• Humility of Christ: Jesus comes as a humble king, not with power and force, but with gentleness. He invites people to follow him, not through strength, but through trust and love.
• God Gives Peace: The readings speak of a king who brings peace to all people. Jesus offers rest to those who are tired and struggling.
• Trust in God: Jesus says that God reveals truth to those who are humble and open. This shows that faith is not about knowing everything, but about trusting God.
• Life Through the Spirit: Those who follow the Spirit will have real life. The readings remind us to leave behind sin and live in God’s way.
• God Helps the Weak: The psalm tells us that God lifts up those who fall. Jesus also calls those who are burdened to come to him for rest.
• Jesus’ Gentle Way: Jesus does not make life harder for people. He offers a way that brings peace and rest to the soul.

The 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A teaches about Jesus’ kindness and the peace he brings. It reminds us to trust him, follow his way, and find rest in him.

Carrying Burdens Relay Race

This game aligns with the gospel for the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A , where Jesus invites those who are weary and burdened to find rest in Him. Through the physical experience of carrying burdens in the game, participants can relate to the struggles of life and understand the importance of relying on Jesus for strength and comfort, reinforcing the message of finding rest in Him.

God Sustains Us

We know God sustains us and cares for us. This is a prayer based on Psalm 145, which is the responsorial psalm for the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A. This prayer expresses praise to God for the way he watches over us.

A Student’s Prayer to St. Jude Thaddeus

As the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A calls us to find rest in Jesus, we can turn to St. Jude, the patron saint of hope and impossible causes, especially during moments when students feel overwhelmed by their studies and various time constraints, seeking his intercession and guidance.

Resources for the Book of Zechariah

The first reading for the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A is taken from the Book of Zechariah, specifically Zechariah 9:9-10. This passage prophesies the coming of a humble king riding on a donkey, who will bring peace and rule over the nations. See background information on this prophetic book.

Paul’s Letter to the Romans: Faith, Grace, and Righteousness

The Second Reading for the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A is Romans 8:9, 11-13. This passage asserts that those with the Spirit of Christ belong to Him and will have life. It calls believers to live by the Spirit, putting aside fleshly deeds, as such actions lead away from eternal life. Applying Romans to life involves understanding human nature and divine grace’s tension. It prompts moral living, unity, and compassion. The letter guides active faith, relying on God’s mercy while striving for righteous living. For more background on the epistle, refer here.

Resources for the Gospel of Matthew

By exploring different resources and reflections on the Gospel of Matthew, we can better understand the message for the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A. Commentaries, study guides, and devotional materials help us learn about being humble and accepting Jesus’ guidance. These resources allow us to grow in our faith and apply the lessons from Matthew’s Gospel to our own lives.

Living in the Spirit: Embracing Jesus’ Yoke

In Jeff Cavins’ reflection for the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, the focus is on living in the spirit and following Jesus. By embracing His worldview, taking His yoke upon ourselves, and walking in obedience to His teachings, we can find true rest, guidance, and freedom, shaping our attitudes, relationships, and actions accordingly. This reflection encourages a transformative shift towards actively living according to Jesus’ will, leading to a life filled with the spirit and true fulfillment.

Are You Busy Doing the Right Things?

Fr. Mike Schmitz explores the balance between striving and abiding, offering insights on finding rest and clarity in life. By seeking a clear vision and discerning God’s guidance, individuals can navigate their actions with intentionality, aligning their pursuits with a definitive purpose. This reflection aligns with the gospel for the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, emphasizing the intertwining of striving and abiding as individuals pursue what is truly important, finding fulfillment in God’s will.

Zechariah and the New David

A homily for the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A from Bishop Robert Barron. “Our first reading for this weekend is derived from the ninth chapter of the book of the prophet Zechariah, one of the twelve so-called minor prophets of the Old Testament. The background for the prophecy contained here is that Israel saw itself as the specially chosen people of God, whose mission was to bring the light of the Lord to all the nations of the world. At the time of David, this ambition seemed more realistic, but things fell rather quickly apart. And yet, oddly, they continued to hope. God would cause Israel to fulfill its destiny, precisely by raising up a king like David.”

A Yoke for the Childlike

A reflection for the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A from Scott Hahn. In today’s Gospel, Jesus is portrayed as a new and greater Moses. While Moses was God’s friend and law-giver, Jesus goes beyond that. He is the Son who intimately knows the Father, revealing Himself as the yoke of a new Law and the embodiment of God’s Wisdom. Jesus imparts this wisdom to those who approach Him with childlike humility, enabling them to recognize Him as the promised Savior and meek King. As members of the Church, we are called to live by the Spirit, putting to death our old ways and embracing the new law of love.

The 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A brings a message of peace, trust, and hope. The readings remind us that God is always with us, even in difficult times. Jesus invites those who are weary to come to him and find rest. He does not ask us to carry our burdens alone. Instead, he calls us to trust in his love and guidance.

Hope in the Midst of Turmoil

The 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A gives a message of hope even in difficult times. The first reading from Zechariah speaks of a king who will come in peace. He will not bring war or destruction but will rule with justice and kindness. This promise must have been hard to believe for people facing struggle and uncertainty.

The people of Israel had seen war and hardship. Many must have wondered if peace would ever come. Yet, through Zechariah, God gives them hope. He reminds them that their struggles will not last forever. A time of peace will come.

This message still speaks to us. Life is not always easy, and we all face challenges. It can be hard to trust in better days when times are tough. But God remains faithful, just as he was in Zechariah’s time.

The 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A encourages us to hold onto hope. Even when life is uncertain, God has not forgotten us. He is working for our good, even when we cannot see it yet. We are called to trust in his plan and wait with faith.

Finding Solace in Jesus

The gospel for the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A brings comfort. Jesus invites those who are tired and burdened to come to him. He promises rest to those who trust in him. His way is not heavy or difficult but brings peace.

Life brings many struggles. People face stress, worry, and hardship. Sometimes, the weight of life feels too much to carry. Jesus understands this. He does not ignore our pain. Instead, he invites us to bring our troubles to him.

Trusting Jesus means letting go of worry and placing our burdens in his hands. It does not mean life will always be easy. But it does mean we do not have to carry everything alone. Jesus is always with us, ready to give us strength.

The 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A reminds us to turn to Jesus in hard times. His love is steady, and his help is always near. He is the one who truly gives rest to the weary.

Relying on Jesus in Difficult Times

The second reading for the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A reminds us to live by the Spirit. It tells us to turn away from sinful ways and follow God’s path. This is not always easy, but we are not alone. Jesus walks with us, guiding and strengthening us.

Difficult times can make faith hard. When life is painful, it is tempting to rely only on ourselves. But this often leads to more worry and stress. Jesus offers a better way. He calls us to lean on him instead of carrying our burdens alone.

Trusting in Jesus means giving up control. It means believing that he knows what is best. This takes faith and patience, but it brings peace. Jesus does not leave us to figure everything out by ourselves. He is always ready to help.

The 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A calls us to rely on Jesus. When life is overwhelming, he is there. We can turn to him, knowing he will never leave us to face life’s struggles alone.

The 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A teaches that Jesus is our source of strength. He understands our struggles and offers us peace. When we rely on him, we find hope even in hard times. These reflections encourage us to trust in God, seek rest in Jesus, and lean on his love every day.

Prayer

Lord, you are our refuge in times of trouble. Help us to trust in you when life feels heavy. Teach us to rely on your strength instead of our own. Give us peace when we are weary. May we always turn to you and find rest in your loving care. Amen.

• When have you felt overwhelmed by life’s burdens?
• How do you find peace in difficult times?
• What does it mean to rely on Jesus instead of yourself?
• How can you bring your struggles to Jesus in prayer?
• What does the image of Jesus’ easy yoke mean to you?
• How do you see God’s faithfulness in your life?
• What steps can you take to live more by the Spirit?
• How do you find hope when facing challenges?
• What does the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A teach you about trust?
• How can you help others who feel burdened or weary?

The music selections for the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A focus on trust, rest, and God’s mercy. Some songs remind us that Jesus calls the weary to find peace in him. Others speak of God’s faithfulness and how he lifts up those who struggle. There are hymns about laying down burdens and relying on Jesus for strength. Some songs are prayers for God’s guidance and presence in daily life. Whether traditional or contemporary, this music helps us reflect on the readings and draw closer to Jesus.

• Abide with Me by Audrey Assad
• Beautiful Things by Gungor
• Be Thou My Vision by Bob Fabing
• Blessed Be Your Name by Matt Redman
• Christ Is Risen by Matt Maher
• Come to Me by Tom Booth
• Come to Me, All Who Labor by Steve Angrisano, Sarah Hart & Curtis Stephan
• Come to the Water by John Foley
• Everlasting God by Brenton Brown & Ken Riley
• Eye Has Not Seen by Marty Haugen
• Forever by Chris Tomlin
• How Can I Keep from Singing by Robert Lowryl, Doris Plenn, Paul Gibson, Randall Debruyn & Rick Modlin
• I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say by The Hillbilly Thomists
• I Will Praise Your Name by Christpher Willcock
• I Will Rest in You by ValLimar Jansen
• Lay It Down by Matt Maher
• Lord of All Hopefulness by Jan Struther & Randall Debruyn
• Love Divine all Loves Excelling by Rowland H. Pritchard & Charles Wesley
• Make Your Home in Me by Ben Walther
• My Yoke Is Easy by Craig Colson
• Now Thank We All
• Our God Saves by Paul Baloche
• There’s a Wideness in God’s Mercy

Music directors and musicians can use these selections to bring out the message of the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A. These songs help people focus on God’s love and care. If you have other song suggestions that fit the themes of this Sunday, share them in the comments. Let’s build a list that helps everyone find rest and peace in Jesus.

What date is the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A?

The next date is Sunday July 5, 2026.
For other years see the links below:
14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

What are the Mass readings for the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A?

The Mass readings for Sunday July 5, 2026 are:
First Reading – Zechariah 9:9-10: Rejoice in the Arrival of the Just Savior
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 145: Eternal Praise and God’s Kindness
Second Reading – Romans 8:9, 11-13: Life in the Spirit
Gospel – Matthew 11:25-30: Gratitude and Rest for the Weary

What is the main message of the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A?

The main message is that Jesus brings peace and rest to those who trust in him. He invites the weary to come to him and follow his gentle way.

Why does Zechariah talk about a king on a donkey?

Zechariah describes a king who comes in peace, not war. The donkey shows that he is humble and kind, not a ruler who seeks power through force.

How does the first reading connect to Jesus?

The first reading speaks of a king who will bring peace to all nations. Jesus fulfills this by offering peace to all who follow him.

What does it mean to live by the Spirit in the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A?

Living by the Spirit means following God’s way instead of selfish desires. It means trusting in God’s help to do what is right.

Why does Jesus say his yoke is easy?

A yoke is something placed on animals to help them pull a load. Jesus is saying that following him will not be a heavy burden but will bring peace and rest.

What does it mean to find rest in Jesus?

Finding rest in Jesus means trusting him with your worries and struggles. It means knowing that you do not have to face life alone.

Why does Jesus reveal the truth to the humble?

Humble people are open to learning and trusting in God. Those who think they know everything may not listen to his message.

How can the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A help someone who feels overwhelmed?

The readings remind us that Jesus understands our struggles. He invites us to give our burdens to him and find peace in his love.

What does the psalm teach us about God?

The psalm tells us that God is kind, faithful, and helps those who are struggling. He lifts up those who are weak and brings them strength.

How can we apply the message of the 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A to our lives?

We can trust in Jesus when we feel tired or burdened. We can turn to him in prayer and follow his way of love and kindness.

What does it mean that Jesus calls the weary to come to him?

Jesus knows that life can be hard. He invites those who are struggling to trust in him and find comfort in his care.

Why does Paul tell us to put aside the ways of the flesh?

Paul reminds us that living only for selfish desires leads us away from God. When we follow the Spirit, we find real life and peace.

How does this Sunday’s message help us trust God more?

The readings show that God is always faithful. Even in hard times, he brings peace to those who trust in him.