26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A

• First reading – Ezekiel 18:25-28: The Lord responds to those who complain about fairness. God’s ways are just. A virtuous person who turns to iniquity will face consequences, but if they repent, their life will be preserved.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 25: The psalmist seeks God’s guidance and asks for instruction in truth. Remembering God’s compassion, the psalmist asks for mercy and guidance. The Lord, good and just, leads sinners and the humble in righteousness.
• Second reading – Philippians 2:1-11: Encouraged by Christ’s love, unity, and compassion, we’re urged to be of one mind, considering others above ourselves. Christ’s selflessness and humility serve as an example, leading to exaltation and acknowledgment of His lordship.
• Gospel – Matthew 21:28-32: Jesus presents a parable of two sons asked to work in a vineyard. One initially refuses but later obeys, while the other agrees but doesn’t go. The lesson highlights that actions, not words, reveal true obedience and righteousness, and tax collectors and prostitutes enter God’s kingdom due to genuine belief.

Lectionary Reference: 136

Upcoming dates: September 27, 2026, September 30, 2029, September 26, 2032

The 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A teaches about fairness, obedience, and humility. The readings show that God is just, repentance leads to life, and actions speak louder than words.

• God’s justice is fair: Some people think God’s ways are unfair, but He judges with truth. If someone turns away from good, they face consequences, but if they turn back to good, they are saved.
• Repentance leads to life: A person who sins can still change. God does not hold the past against those who truly repent.
• Actions matter more than words: In the Gospel, the son who obeys in the end is the one who does right. Saying yes to God means nothing without real obedience.
• Humility brings honor: Jesus humbled Himself completely, and God raised Him up. True greatness comes from serving others.
• Obedience shows true belief: Those who truly believe in God follow His ways. The tax collectors and sinners changed their lives, showing real faith.
• Unity in Christ: Paul calls for unity among believers. When people put others first, they live as Jesus taught.

The 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A reminds people to follow God with true obedience. It shows that real faith is not just words but actions.

Actions Speak Louder than Words

The Gospel for the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, Matthew 21:28-32, presents a parable of two sons—one who initially refuses but later obeys, and the other who agrees but doesn’t follow through. This story emphasizes the value of actions over words and highlights true obedience. It correlates with the lesson plan titled “Actions Speak Louder than Words,” which teaches about honoring commitments and the impact of deeds. The plan uses the parable from Matthew’s Gospel to guide participants in understanding the concept of genuine obedience and its connection to faith and community contributions.

Humble Hearts Prayer Station

The second reading for the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A is Philippians 2:1-11: Encouraged by Christ’s love, we’re urged to unity and compassion, considering others first. Christ’s humility serves as an example, leading to exaltation and acknowledgment of His lordship. For teaching children about humility, the Humble Hearts Prayer Station is a practical activity inspired by Philippians 2:1-11, allowing children to express their commitment to humility.

The Book of Ezekiel: Prophetic Insights of Renewal

The first reading for the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A is Ezekiel 18:25-28. The Lord responds to complaints about fairness, asserting His just ways. A virtuous person turning to iniquity faces consequences, but repentance preserves life. The Book of Ezekiel weaves rebellion, exile, and God’s pursuit. Its imagery reflects human failings and offers hope for redemption. Through Ezekiel, God’s actions reveal His identity as the Lord. The book highlights God’s sovereignty over nations and individuals, offering a path to restoration and renewal, showcasing His mercy and desire for people to return.

The Letter to the Philippians: Nurturing Unity and Joy

The second reading for the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A is Philippians 2:1-11. Encouraged by Christ’s love, we’re urged to unity and compassion, considering others first. Christ’s humility serves as an example, leading to exaltation and acknowledgment of His lordship. The Letter to the Philippians, written by Paul during imprisonment, guides unity and joy in the Christian community. It calls for humility, love, and mutual support, leading believers to deeper connections and shared faith.

Resources for the Gospel of Matthew

In Matthew 21:28-32, the Gospel for the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, the focus is a parable where two sons are asked to work in a vineyard. One agrees but doesn’t act, while the other initially refuses but later complies. The story underscores that actions, not words, matter in displaying righteousness. It’s a theme consistent with Matthew’s larger teachings on love, service, and obedience. Jesus notes that even marginalized individuals can enter God’s kingdom through sincere actions, aligning with Matthew’s broader messages.

Obedience in Action

Jeff Cavins delves into the readings for the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, emphasizing the significance of actions reflecting true belief. He presents a relatable scenario of promises made and broken, highlighting that genuine faith is demonstrated through obedience. Using the parable of the two sons, Cavins draws parallels between those who say they’ll obey but don’t and those who initially refuse but ultimately follow through. He highlights Jesus’ obedience even unto death, urging listeners to mirror His faithful heart. Cavins challenges his audience to assess their obedience and integrity, encouraging a life where actions align with professed beliefs.

In the Form of God

In this homily for the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, Bishop Robert Barron discusses an early text from Philippians that affirms Jesus’ divinity and challenges skeptics who dismiss it as a later invention. The text describes Jesus in the “form of God,” not grasping at equality with God but self-emptying and becoming a slave. This highlights the profound concept of kenosis—God’s self-emptying—in contrast to our sinful tendency to grasp at divinity. Barron emphasizes Jesus’ full embrace of human likeness and the significance of his death on a cross. This homily captures the core of Christianity, showcasing God’s love, self-emptying, and humanity’s transformation.

The Humble Path

Scott Hahn discusses the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A readings, addressing the question of God’s perceived unfair justice. The parable in the Gospel explores the contrast between repentant sinners and self-righteous leaders, inviting us to consider God’s mercy and humility. Hahn emphasizes the importance of self-emptying and acknowledging God’s lordship for a path of life, contrasting it with the prideful path of death highlighted in Ezekiel.

Practical Christianity

Fr. Richard Rohr reflects on the gospel for the 26th Sunday, critiquing the tradition’s adoption of an abstract and imperial Christ that lacks connection to the historical Jesus. He discusses how this shift was influenced by power and empire, leading to an emphasis on ideology over love, service, and healing. Fr. Rohr highlights the importance of embodying truth in love, as Jesus exemplified in his teachings and actions. He urges a return to a Jesus who is relevant, practical, and human—a model for authentic humanity.

The 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A teaches important lessons about obedience, repentance, and humility. The readings remind us that actions speak louder than words. God’s mercy is always available to those who turn back to Him, no matter their past. Jesus shows that those who truly change their ways will enter His kingdom. Paul calls believers to follow Christ’s example of humility and selflessness. These reflections help us think about how we are living our faith.

Actions Show True Obedience

The Gospel for the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A tells the story of two sons. Their father asks them to work in the vineyard. One refuses but later goes, while the other agrees but does nothing. Jesus asks which son truly did the father’s will. The answer is clear—the one who actually obeyed.

This parable teaches that words alone are not enough. Promising to do good means little if we do not follow through. Many people say they will do what is right but never act on it. Others may resist at first but later change their ways. Jesus shows that real obedience comes from action, not empty promises.

The religious leaders in Jesus’ time talked about righteousness but did not live it. Meanwhile, tax collectors and sinners listened to John the Baptist and changed their lives. They did not seem like holy people at first, but their actions showed real faith. This was why they were entering God’s kingdom.

The 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A reminds us to look at our own lives. Do our actions match our words? It is easy to say we will follow God, but do we actually live as He asks? True faith is shown in what we do, not just in what we say.

The Power of Repentance

The first reading for the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A speaks about fairness and change. Some people complained that God’s ways were not fair. But God explained that each person is responsible for their own actions. If a good person turns to evil, they will suffer. But if a sinner turns back to what is right, they will be saved.

This shows the power of repentance. No one is stuck in their past mistakes. A person can always turn back to God and choose a better path. God does not hold onto our sins if we are willing to change. He welcomes those who sincerely seek to do what is right.

The Gospel also speaks about repentance. Tax collectors and sinners had lived wrongly, but they listened to John the Baptist and turned their lives around. The religious leaders thought they were already good, so they did not change. Jesus shows that God values those who are willing to correct their ways.

The 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A invites us to think about our own lives. Are there things we need to change? God is always ready to forgive, but we must be willing to turn toward Him. It is never too late to make a new choice and follow the right path.

Humility Leads to Honor

The second reading for the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A speaks about Christ’s humility. Though He was above all, He became like us and even accepted death on a cross. Because of this, God raised Him up, and every knee will bow to Him. Jesus showed that true greatness comes from serving others.

Humility is not easy. Many people want to be important and respected. But Jesus teaches that real honor comes from putting others first. He did not seek power or glory. Instead, He chose to lower Himself and serve. Because of this, He was lifted up.

The Gospel also teaches about humility. The tax collectors and sinners admitted their wrongs and changed their lives. The religious leaders refused to do the same. In the end, those who humbled themselves were the ones who entered God’s kingdom.

The 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A reminds us to follow Jesus’ example. We are called to serve, not to seek status. True honor comes when we live with humility and put others before ourselves.

The 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A challenges us to examine our hearts and actions. Are we truly following God, or just saying the right words? Do we seek to serve others, or do we put ourselves first? Jesus calls us to real obedience, true repentance, and humble service. When we live this way, we walk the path that leads to life.

Prayer

Lord, help me to follow You with true obedience. Let my actions reflect my faith, not just my words. When I fail, give me the courage to repent and change. Teach me to be humble, like Jesus, and to put others before myself. Guide me to walk in Your ways each day. Amen.

• Do my actions match my words when it comes to faith?
• When have I said I would do something good but failed to follow through?
• How does the parable of the two sons challenge me in my own life?
• What areas of my life need repentance and change?
• How does God’s fairness give hope to those who turn back to Him?
• In what ways can I practice humility like Jesus?
• Do I seek recognition, or am I willing to serve quietly?
• How can I show true obedience to God in my daily life?
• What steps can I take to be more aware of my need for God’s mercy?
• How does this Sunday’s message encourage me to live differently?

The music selections for the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A reflect key themes from the readings. Many songs focus on obedience to God, reminding us that actions matter more than words. Others emphasize humility, following Christ’s example of serving others. Some selections call for repentance and turning back to God, showing that change is always possible. There are also songs of praise, lifting up God’s justice and mercy. Together, these songs help worshippers connect with the message of this Sunday’s readings through music and prayer.

• At the Name of Jesus by Christopher Walker & Caroline Maria Noel
• At the Sound by Ike Ndolo
• Be God’s by Danielle Rose
• Go Into the World by Tom Booth
• God the Great I Am by Jesse Manibusan & Sarah Hart
• He Is Lord by Elevation Worship
• Humble King by Brenton Brown
• I Have Decided to Follow Jesus by Jadon Lavik
• In Christ There Is No East or West by William A. Dunkerley
• Jesus Lover of My Soul by Fernando Ortega
• Lift Up Your Hearts by the St. Louis Jesuits
• Memorial by Ike Ndolo
• No Greater Love by Matt Maher
• O God our Help in Ages Past by William Croft & Isaac Watts
• Oh Praise Him by David Crowder Band
• Praise the Lord, My Soul by Craig Colson
• Praise the Lord, My Soul by Ed Bolduc
• Servant Song by Donna Marie McGargill
• The Servant Song by Richard Gillard & Betty C. Pulkingham
• Turn Our Hearts Around by Trevor Thomson
• Turn to Me by John Foley
• We Will Serve the Lord by Rory Cooney

Music directors and musicians are encouraged to explore these selections for the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A. These songs bring out the themes of obedience, humility, and faith in action. Try them in your liturgy, and see how they fit with the readings. If you have other song suggestions, share them in the comments.

What date is the 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?

The next date is Sunday September 27, 2026.
For other years see the links below:
26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

What are the Mass readings for the 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?

The Mass readings for Sunday September 27, 2026 are:
First reading – Ezekiel 18:25-28: Repentance and Fairness
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 25: Seeking Divine Guidance
Second reading – Philippians 2:1-11: Emulating Christ’s Humility
Gospel – Matthew 21:28-32: The Parable of Obedience

What is the main message of the Gospel reading?

The Gospel for the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A teaches that actions matter more than words. Saying we will follow God is not enough if we do not actually do His will.

Why did Jesus tell the parable of the two sons?

Jesus told this story to show that those who obey in the end are the ones who truly follow God. People who change their ways and do what is right are more faithful than those who only talk about doing good.

What does the first reading teach about God’s justice?

The first reading for the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A explains that God is fair. He does not judge people only by their past but by whether they turn toward or away from what is right.

Why did tax collectors and sinners enter the kingdom before religious leaders?

The tax collectors and sinners repented and changed their ways. The religious leaders claimed to follow God but refused to listen and change.

How does the second reading connect to the Gospel?

The second reading for the 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A teaches about humility and putting others first. The Gospel also teaches that those who recognize their need to change will be lifted up.

Why is repentance so important?

Repentance means turning away from sin and choosing what is right. God welcomes those who sincerely change, no matter their past mistakes.

What does Jesus’ humility teach us?

Jesus chose to serve others instead of seeking power. His example teaches that true honor comes from putting others before ourselves.

How can we apply these lessons in our daily lives?

We can make sure our actions match our words, be willing to admit when we are wrong, and put others before ourselves. These small choices help us live out our faith.

What if I feel like I have failed too many times?

The 26th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A reminds us that it is never too late to change. God is always ready to forgive those who turn back to Him.

Why does God care more about actions than words?

Words can be empty if they are not followed by real change. God looks at what we do because our actions show what is truly in our hearts.

How can I follow Christ’s example of humility?

You can serve others without seeking attention, listen more than you speak, and put the needs of others before your own. Jesus showed that true greatness comes from serving.