15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A

• First Reading – Isaiah 55:10-11: The Lord’s word is likened to rain that nourishes the earth, promising that it will accomplish its intended purpose without returning void.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 65: You enrich the land, making it fruitful. Your generosity fills the year with abundance, causing fields and valleys to flourish and sing with joy.
• Second Reading – Romans 8:18-23: Current sufferings are minimal compared to the future glory awaiting God’s children. All creation yearns for this liberation and shares in the anticipation of redemption.
• Gospel – Matthew 13:1-23: Jesus shares a parable about a sower who scattered seeds, symbolizing the spreading of God’s word. The seeds fell on different types of soil, representing various responses to the message. Some seeds produced abundant fruit, while others were hindered by thorns, rocky ground, or birds. Jesus explains the meaning of each element, highlighting the importance of receptive hearts for the growth and understanding of God’s teachings.

Lectionary Reference: 103

Upcoming dates: July 12, 2026, July 15, 2029, July 11, 2032

The readings for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A focus on God’s word and how people receive it. They remind us that God’s message is meant to bring life, but it requires open hearts to grow.

• Power of God’s Word: God’s word is like rain that nourishes the earth. It always fulfills its purpose, just as the first reading says.
• Fertile Hearts and Faith: The parable of the sower shows that people respond to God in different ways. A heart that is open and willing to listen will grow in faith.
• Challenges to Faith: Some people struggle to hold on to God’s message. Distractions, worries, and hardships can keep faith from growing.
• Hope in Future Glory: The second reading reminds us that present struggles are small compared to the joy that will come. This hope helps believers stay strong.
• God’s Generosity in Creation: The psalm describes the beauty and richness of the earth. It reflects how God provides and blesses those who trust in Him.
• Call to Listen and Understand: Jesus explains that not everyone truly listens to God’s word. Understanding takes effort and a desire to grow.

God’s word is always working, but people must be ready to receive it. The 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A calls us to trust, listen, and let faith take root.

Lectio Divina

On the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, we can consider the practice of Lectio Divina. Lectio Divina invites us to receive the Word of God with open hearts and minds. In this ancient spiritual practice, we read and meditate on the sacred text, allowing it to penetrate the depths of our being. Like the seeds that fell on good soil, Lectio Divina cultivates the fertile ground of our souls, nurturing the growth of God’s wisdom within us. Through careful reflection, we can discern the ways in which the divine Word takes root, bears fruit, and transforms our lives, enabling us to become true disciples of Christ.

Start a Prayer Journal

Introduce the practice of writing in a prayer journal on the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A. Within its pages, we carefully sow the seeds of our emotions, desires, and questions, allowing them to be nurtured and cultivated by the Divine. In this sacred act of journaling, we create space for the Word to take root, grow, and bear fruit in our lives. Through the reflective process of writing, we invite God to speak to us, to guide us, and to transform us, fostering a deeper intimacy and connection with the Divine presence in our journey of faith.

Fruit Salad Game

On the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time, we can explore the concept of bearing good fruit through a youth ministry game called “Fruit Salad.” Through this game, the youth are reminded of the importance of bearing good fruit in their thoughts, words, and actions, and how these fruits can contribute to building a more compassionate and loving community. Use this on the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A.

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

The Second Reading for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A is Romans 8:18-23. It highlights that present sufferings are outweighed by the future glory awaiting God’s children. Creation longs for this liberation, joining in the hope of redemption. The letter delves into salvation through faith in Jesus Christ, transcending strict law adherence. Paul emphasizes universal sin and the potential for righteousness through Christ’s sacrifice. The concept of grace and the significance of faith are central. For more resources on the epistle, refer here.

Resources for the Gospel of Matthew

On the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, when the Gospel reading is from Matthew 13:1-23, exploring resources and background information for the Gospel of Matthew can deepen our understanding of the parable of the sower and its significance.

Parable of the Sower: The Word of God and the Soil

In this reflection for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, Jeff Cavins discusses the parable of the sower. Jesus describes the different types of soil: the path, rocky ground, thorny ground, and good ground. These represent the receptiveness of our hearts to God’s word. Cavins emphasizes the importance of truly listening to the word of God, not just hearing it superficially. By understanding and truly receiving the word, we can bear much fruit. Cavins encourages listeners to focus their hearts during Mass and to deepen their connection with the word of God.

Ways to Read the Bible

Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on the various ways people approach reading the Bible. Initially, it may be seen as a collection of captivating stories from childhood. As we grow older, we may seek inspiration from the Bible’s quotes but find that not all passages are inspiring. Some turn to it as an answer book for guidance but often feel unsatisfied.

Fr. Mike explains that while the Bible contains different genres, it always conveys truth. He encourages adult readers to engage both heart and intellect, recognizing human authors used by God to convey divine truths. By embracing the richness of God’s word, we can find truth in its message of salvation.

A Sower Went Out to Sow

A homily for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A from Bishop Robert Barron. “God is a farmer who sows the seed of his love liberally, on good and bad soil, to saint and sinner alike. There is no limit to God’s willingness to save. If we are the least bit cooperative, the grace of God will cause life to spring up in us thirty, sixty, or a hundred fold.”

The Word’s Return

A reflection on the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A from Scott Hahn. “Today’s readings, like last week’s, ask us to meditate on Israel’s response to God’s Word—and our own. Why do some hear the word of the kingdom, yet fail to accept it as a call to conversion and faith in Jesus? That question underlies today’s Gospel, especially.”

The Word That Accomplishes Its Purpose

Another homily from Bishop Barron for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A. “This week, we hear from the book of the prophet Isaiah, and the theme of this short passage is the Word of God. How wonderful that we are hearing one of the greatest speakers of the Word precisely on this topic. How central to ancient Israelite religion was the Word! Biblical Israel knew itself to be a people to whom God uniquely had spoken.”

The 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A invites us to reflect on how we receive God’s word. The readings use images of rain, soil, and growth to show the power of His message. God’s word is meant to bring life, but it requires open hearts. Some may struggle to accept it, while others allow it to shape their lives. These reflections help us think about our own faith journey and how we can grow closer to God.

The Power of God’s Word

The first reading for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A compares God’s word to rain that nourishes the earth. Just as rain makes plants grow, God’s word brings life and change. It is not empty or wasted but always accomplishes what God intends. This reminds us that when we listen to His word, it has the power to shape our lives.

Sometimes, people hear God’s word but do not allow it to take root. Distractions, doubts, or fear can keep it from growing in their hearts. But just as rain softens dry ground, God’s word can soften hearts that are closed off. If we let it, it can change our thoughts, actions, and the way we see the world.

God’s word is not just for individuals. It spreads like rain over the whole world, bringing life to those who accept it. It calls people to love, to seek justice, and to trust in God’s plan. This means that every person has a part in making the world more like God wants it to be.

The 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A invites us to reflect on how we receive God’s word. Do we allow it to shape us, or do we ignore it? If we open our hearts, it will lead us toward truth, goodness, and peace.

Struggles and Hope in Faith

The second reading for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A speaks about suffering and hope. St. Paul says that the struggles of this life are small compared to the glory that is coming. He compares the world’s pain to the pains of childbirth, showing that something greater is being prepared.

Faith is not always easy. People face challenges, doubts, and moments of weakness. Sometimes, it may feel like God is far away. But just as a woman in labor endures pain for the joy of new life, believers must endure difficulties with hope. God is working, even when it is hard to see.

Creation itself is waiting for renewal. Paul reminds us that all things will one day be made new. This promise gives strength to those who are tired or discouraged. The suffering of the present is temporary, but God’s promises last forever.

The 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A encourages patience and trust. The road to faith is not always smooth, but God is with His people. In the end, those who remain faithful will share in His glory.

Preparing Our Hearts for God’s Word

The Gospel for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A tells the parable of the sower. Jesus describes different kinds of soil, showing how people respond to God’s message. Some are open and ready, while others are distracted or unprepared. This parable helps us reflect on the state of our own hearts.

Some people hear God’s word but do not understand it. Like seeds on a path, the message is quickly lost. Others accept it but give up when difficulties arise. They have no strong roots. Some start with good intentions, but worries and desires choke their faith, like thorns growing among the plants.

The best soil is rich and ready. It allows the seed to take root and grow. This represents those who listen to God’s word, take it seriously, and live by it. Their faith grows, and they produce good fruits of love, kindness, and truth.

The 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A reminds us to prepare our hearts for God’s word. Are we listening? Are we allowing faith to grow? When we make space for God, His word will take root and bear fruit in our lives.

God speaks to each person in different ways, but the message is always meant to bring life and hope. The 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A reminds us to listen, trust, and prepare our hearts. When we allow God’s word to take root, it will grow and bear fruit in our lives.

Prayer

Lord, open my heart to Your word. Help me to listen, understand, and follow Your truth. Remove anything that keeps me from growing in faith. Give me the strength to endure struggles and the patience to trust in Your plan. May my life bear good fruit that brings glory to You. Amen.

• How do I respond when I hear God’s word?
• What distractions keep me from fully accepting God’s message?
• When have I felt that my faith was growing strong?
• What challenges have made it hard for me to trust in God?
• How can I prepare my heart to receive God’s word?
• What areas of my life need renewal and change?
• How do I see God working even in times of struggle?
• What does it mean to let faith take deep root?
• How can I help others grow in their faith?
• What steps can I take to become more open to God’s teachings?

• All Good Gifts by Lamar Alford
• All of Creation by MercyMe
• All Creation Sing Alleluia
• Ancient Words by Michael W. Smith
• For the Beauty of the Earth
• God Is Still Speaking by Marty Haugen
• Go Out In the World by Ed Bolduc
• In Labor All Creation Groans by Bifrost Arts
• O Word of God by Ricky Manalo
• Praise to You, O Christ, Our Savior by Bernadette Farrell
• Seed, Scattered and Sown
• Sent Forth by God’s Blessing by Omer Westendorf
• Unless a Grain of Wheat Shall Fall by Bernadette Farrell
• The Seed That Falls on Good Ground by Stephen DeCesare
• Word of God by Bernadette Farrell
• Word of God by David Gentiles
• Word of God Speak by MercyMe

What date is the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A?

The next date is Sunday July 12, 2026
For other years see the links below:
15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

What are the Mass readings for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A?

The Mass readings for Sunday July 12, 2026 are:
First Reading – Isaiah 55:10-11: The Power of the Divine Word
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 65: The Bounty of the Earth
Second Reading – Romans 8:18-23: Sufferings and Future Glory
Gospel – Matthew 13:1-23: The Parable of the Sower

Why does the first reading compare God’s word to rain?

Rain gives life to the earth and helps plants grow. In the same way, God’s word brings life and helps people grow in faith.

What does it mean when the reading says God’s word will accomplish its purpose?

God’s word is not empty or wasted. It always brings change in those who receive it with open hearts.

Why does the Gospel for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A focus on different types of soil?

The soil represents different ways people respond to God’s message. Some ignore it, some accept it but fall away, and some let it grow in their hearts.

What can I do to be like the good soil?

You can listen carefully to God’s word, take it seriously, and live by it. Prayer, trust, and following God’s teachings help faith grow strong.

Why does Jesus say some seeds are choked by thorns?

The thorns represent worries, distractions, and selfish desires. When people focus too much on these things, their faith does not grow.

How does the second reading for the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A bring hope?

It reminds believers that present struggles are small compared to the joy that will come. Even when life is hard, God is preparing something greater.

Why does Paul compare suffering to labor pains?

Labor pains are painful but lead to new life. In the same way, the struggles of faith are difficult but lead to something better.

How can I stay strong when faith feels difficult?

Trust in God, pray, and remember that struggles are temporary. Staying close to God helps you keep going.

What does the psalm teach about God’s care?

The psalm describes how God provides for the earth and makes it fruitful. This reminds us that He also cares for us and gives us what we need.

How can I apply the lessons of the 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A to my life?

You can reflect on how you receive God’s word and try to be more open to it. You can also trust in God’s care and stay strong in faith even when life is hard.