Sunday November 4, 2029
Mass Readings for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
- First Reading – Malachi 1:14B-2:2B, 8-10: I am a great King and demand respect. Priests, if you don’t honor my name, I’ll curse you. You’ve strayed and made others falter, breaking the covenant. Remember, we all have one God.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 131: My heart isn’t proud, Lord. I don’t aim for things beyond me. Instead, I’m at peace, quiet like a child with its mother. Israel, put your hope in the Lord.
- Second Reading – 1 Thessalonians 2:7b-9, 13: We were kind to you, like a mother to her children. We shared not just the gospel, but ourselves. You know we worked hard to not be a burden. We’re thankful you received God’s word, not just human words.
- Gospel – Matthew 23:1-12: Jesus tells the crowd and his disciples to follow the teachings of the scribes and Pharisees but not their actions. He criticizes them for being showy and not genuinely helping others. He advises against using titles like “Rabbi” and “Master,” emphasizing humility and service instead.
For they preach but they do not practice. They tie up heavy burdens hard to carry and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they will not lift a finger to move them.
Matthew 23:4
Themes for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
The readings for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A are a call to humility and holiness. The first reading demands that we listen to God and love one another. The psalm reminds us to find our peace and rest in God. The second reading tells us that we work to proclaim the Good News. And in the gospel, Jesus calls out those who lay heavy laws on others but do not practice what they preach.
- Practice vs. Preach: Jesus criticizes the religious leaders for not practicing what they preach. This theme highlights the importance of congruency between one’s words and actions in religious life.
- Heavy Burdens: The religious authorities are blamed for laying heavy burdens on others while not lifting a finger themselves. This theme centers on the unjust imposition of religious obligations without personal commitment.
- Humility over Titles: Jesus advises against using honorific titles like “Rabbi” and emphasizes the value of humility. This theme promotes a down-to-earth approach over seeking social or religious status.
See the Homilies and Reflections section and the More Thoughts section for further expansion on these readings and some reflection questions for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A.
Resources for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
Leaders We Love – Youth Ministry Activity
The “Leaders We Love” activity is a practical tool for young people to recognize effective leadership qualities. It operates in small, informal groups, promoting comfortable discussion with just poster paper and markers. Participants, in small groups, select admired leaders and list three defining leadership qualities. This process continues until everyone contributes. Later, they share admired leaders and common qualities, identifying valued traits and their importance. They also explore unexpected characteristics, broadening their understanding of effective leadership. In summary, “Leaders We Love” helps youth understand leadership qualities, encourages open discussion, and nurtures leadership development. It connects to Matthew 23:1-12 by emphasizing humility and servant leadership, qualities often found in admired leaders.
1 Thessalonians: A Practical Guide
The second reading for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A comes from Thessalonians 2:7b-9, 13. It’s a letter written by the apostle Paul to the Thessalonian church, new converts facing challenges in their faith journey. Paul expresses gratitude for their faithfulness despite persecution and encourages them to live out their faith with love and hope. He addresses concerns about Christ’s second coming, assuring believers of resurrection. 1 Thessalonians is vital for understanding early Christianity and offers practical guidance for Catholics. It lays the foundation for Catholic interpretation, emphasizing faith, love, and hope. By studying it, Catholics learn to stand firm in trials and await Christ’s return.
Resources for the Gospel of Matthew
The gospel for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A is from Matthew 23:1-12. In this passage, Jesus advises the crowd and his disciples to follow the teachings of the scribes and Pharisees but not their actions, as they are showy and lack genuine help for others. He emphasizes humility and service over titles like “Rabbi” and “Master.” Throughout the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus exemplifies compassion and mercy by healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and comforting the marginalized. His ultimate sacrifice on the cross demonstrates his love for all. As Catholics, we find valuable lessons in Jesus’ teachings on love, forgiveness, and service. We are called to be compassionate and merciful, mirroring his example.
Homilies and Reflections for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
Sunday November 4, 2029
Jeff Cavins reflects on the reading for the 31st Sunday in ordinary time, focusing on Matthew Chapter 23, which discusses the need for humility. He emphasizes that humility isn’t just about how you see yourself in relation to God, but also how you relate to others; it means not drawing attention to your own ‘holiness’ for show.
A Challenge to the Sons of Levi
In his homily for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, Bishop Robert Barron discusses the challenging nature of the day’s scripture readings, particularly for those in leadership roles within the Church. He explores themes from the prophet Malachi and Jesus, who criticize corrupt religious leadership. Bishop Barron also shares his personal reflections on how these scriptures resonate with him, given the backdrop of issues like the clergy sex abuse scandal. He stresses the importance of staying true to the spiritual responsibilities of leadership and warns against the misuse of religious symbols for self-aggrandizement.
Self-Critical Thinking
Fr. Richard Rohr discusses the unique role of Hebrew prophets in critiquing their own religion. He argues that questioning and criticizing religious institutions, as seen in Matthew 23, is not an act of disloyalty but a sign of genuine faithfulness to the teachings of prophets and Jesus. He points out that many religious organizations prefer unquestioning loyalty over prophetic critique. Rohr also mentions that human consciousness and spiritual growth often come through grappling with personal and institutional shortcomings. He suggests that the prophetic gift, undervalued in many Christian traditions, is essential for true spiritual development.
More Thoughts for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
Authentic Faith and Sincere Relationships
The passage from 1 Thessalonians 2:7b-9, 13, which is the second reading for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, underscores the profound impact of sincere and caring relationships in spreading the message of faith.
In simple words, it highlights how the apostles, like a mother caring for her children, shared not only the Gospel but also their lives with the Thessalonians. They didn’t seek material gain or praise but showed genuine love and concern, becoming a model for others.
The verse also emphasizes that when they received the word, the Thessalonians recognized it as God’s message, not just human words. This underscores the transformative power of authentic, heartfelt communication.
In our lives, it’s a reminder to share our faith with sincerity, like a mother’s love, and to be receptive to God’s message, allowing it to deeply affect us. It’s about genuine connections and the recognition of divine truth in simple, everyday interactions.
Jesus’ Call for Faithful Leadership
Jesus, in his time, was a devout Jew who didn’t shy away from addressing concerns with religious leaders, much like Malachi did. He emphasized the importance of faithfulness among these leaders, as their actions could influence others. Leaders must set a positive example and maintain a strong connection with God’s love.
The readings for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A, particularly the first reading from Malachi and the Gospel from Matthew, highlight this message. Malachi’s admonition for religious leaders to uphold their faith and Matthew’s caution against hypocrisy resonate with Jesus’ teachings.
In simpler terms, Jesus, being a faithful Jew, urged leaders to walk the talk and stay true to their beliefs. He wanted them to avoid leading people astray. This lesson applies to leaders today as well: be genuine in faith, lead by example, and nurture your connection with God’s love.
Living Out Our Faith
Living out our faith requires more than just words or rituals. It’s about the way we connect with others and lead by example.
In 1 Thessalonians 2:7b-9, we see the apostles’ dedication to sharing their faith through loving relationships, akin to a mother’s care for her children. This serves as a model for us in how we can convey the message of faith—through genuine, heartfelt connections.
Similarly, Jesus emphasized the importance of faithful leadership and sincerity in religious matters. He urged leaders to avoid hypocrisy and to remain true to their beliefs, setting a genuine example for others.
In essence, the readings for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A remind us that faith isn’t just a private matter; it’s about how we treat others and the authenticity we bring to our relationships. True faith shines through in our actions, care for one another, and our commitment to living by the values we profess.
Reflection Questions for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
Sunday November 4, 2029
- Do I practice what I preach?
- Is there someone in my circle who needs to hear about God’s love today?
- How can I convey the message of faith through genuine, heartfelt connections?
- Am I receptive to God’s message in my life, allowing it to deeply affect me?
- How can I show genuine love and concern for others in my interactions, like a mother’s care for her children?
- What can I learn from the apostles’ model of sharing not only the Gospel but also their lives with others?
- How can I avoid seeking material gain or praise in my efforts to share my faith?
- Do I recognize divine truth in simple, everyday interactions with others?
- Am I setting a positive example in my leadership role, whether in my community, workplace, or family?
- How can I maintain a strong connection with God’s love in my leadership endeavors?
- Do I walk the talk and stay true to my beliefs, avoiding hypocrisy in my actions and words?
- In what ways can I avoid leading people astray and instead guide them towards faithfulness?
- What lessons can I draw from Jesus’ emphasis on the importance of faithfulness among leaders in his time?
- How do Malachi’s admonitions for religious leaders to uphold their faith resonate with my own leadership responsibilities?
Quotes and Social Media Graphics for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
Music Suggestions for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
Sunday November 4, 2029
Frequently Asked Questions
What date is the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time?
The next date is Sunday November 4, 2029.
For other years see the links below:
31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
What are the Mass readings for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A?
The Catholic Mass readings for Sunday November 4, 2029 are:
First Reading – Malachi 1:14B-2:2B, 8-10: Warning to Priests
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 131: Humble Prayer
Second Reading – 1 Thessalonians 2:7b-9, 13: Sharing the Gospel
Gospel – Matthew 23:1-12: Critique of Hypocrisy
What are the themes for the Mass readings for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A?
The themes of humility, respect for God, and authenticity in faith actions run through these readings. Malachi warns priests about failing in their duties, while Matthew 23:1-12 discusses the gap between teaching and action among religious leaders.
How are these themes for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A interconnected?
The readings push for integrity in faith practice. Malachi focuses on the responsibilities of priests to honor God, while Matthew deals with the need for true humility and service in religious life. Psalm 131 and 1 Thessalonians underscore a humble, sincere approach to faith.
What does the gospel for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A emphasize?
Matthew 23:1-12 warns against hypocrisy among religious leaders and urges the laity to practice genuine humility and service, shunning titles and showiness.
How can we apply these themes for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A in our lives?
Hold religious leaders accountable but also scrutinize your own actions. Aim for humility and sincerity in your faith and daily activities. Respect for God and others is paramount.
What can we do to be genuinely humble and sincere in faith as emphasized in the Mass readings for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A?
Strive for a deeper understanding of God’s teachings and apply them authentically in your life. Show real kindness and service to others, and maintain a humble outlook, remembering that actions speak louder than titles or words.
What is the main theme of the gospel for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A?
The primary focus in Matthew 23:1-12 is on religious hypocrisy and the contrast between outward appearances and inner spiritual life. Jesus criticizes the scribes and Pharisees for their self-righteousness and lack of humility.
Why does Jesus advise doing what the Pharisees say but not what they do in the gospel for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A (Matthew 23:1-12)?
The Pharisees were knowledgeable in the law and taught it correctly; however, their actions didn’t align with their teachings. They were experts in law but poor in practice. Jesus advises following the law but not emulating the hypocrisy of its teachers.
What’s the significance of the “heavy burdens” mentioned in the gospel for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A?
Matthew 23:1-12 refers to the intricate rules and regulations that the Pharisees imposed, which were often difficult for ordinary people to follow. These “burdens” were more about maintaining appearances than fostering genuine spirituality.
How does the gospel for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A (Matthew 23:1-12) discuss leadership and humility?
Jesus points out that true leadership is about service and humility, not about seeking praise or titles. The message is that those who humble themselves will be exalted, while those who exalt themselves will be humbled.
What are the practical applications of the gospel for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A?
The lesson of Matthew 23:1-12 is universal: actions speak louder than words. It serves as a caution against hypocrisy and emphasizes the importance of integrity in leadership roles—religious or otherwise. It also encourages humility and the understanding that true greatness comes from serving others.
What is Malachi stressing about the priests in the first reading for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A?
Malachi criticizes priests for dishonoring God and leading others astray. The message is clear: leaders have a responsibility to uphold the tenets of faith and act with integrity.
What does it mean when it says “you have made void the covenant of Levi” in the first reading for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A from Malachi?
The covenant of Levi refers to the agreement between God and the tribe of Levi, who served as priests. By not keeping God’s ways and showing partiality in decisions, the priests are said to have voided this covenant, thus betraying their sacred role.
How can the first reading for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A be applied in a modern context?
Malachi serves as a cautionary message for religious leaders and followers alike, reminding them of the responsibility to uphold God’s laws and to treat everyone impartially. It also stresses the importance of unity and mutual respect in any community, be it religious or secular.
What’s the takeaway from the responsorial psalm for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A?
Psalm 131 advocates for a humble and peaceful approach to life and faith, urging believers to rest like a child in the Lord’s care.
What is the central theme of the second reading for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A?
1 Thessalonians 2:7b-9, 13 focuses on the selfless and nurturing approach taken by the apostles when spreading the gospel. It highlights the depth of their affection and commitment to the people they were ministering to.
How can we apply the second reading for the 31st Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A today?
1 Thessalonians 2:7b-9, 13 serves as a model for anyone in a position to influence or guide others, whether spiritually or otherwise. It stresses the importance of genuine care, the sharing of valuable truths, and a commitment to selfless service.
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