3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
Sunday January 24, 2027
Mass Readings for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
After John had been arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the gospel of God: This is the time of fulfillment. The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.
Mark 1:14-15
Themes for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B focuses on God’s call, repentance, and the fleeting nature of this world. The readings show how people respond to God’s message and how following Him changes lives.
- God’s Call to Action: God called Jonah to preach, and He called the disciples to follow Jesus. When God calls, He expects a response.
- Repentance Brings Mercy: The people of Nineveh changed their ways, and God did not punish them. God is always ready to forgive when people turn back to Him.
- Leaving Everything for God: The disciples left their work and families to follow Jesus. Following Him sometimes means giving up what feels important.
- The Passing Nature of Life: Paul reminds people that the world will not last forever. They should not hold too tightly to things that will pass away.
- Faith Requires Immediate Response: Jonah obeyed God’s command, and the disciples followed Jesus right away. Faith means acting without delay when God calls.
- Spreading God’s Message: Jonah warned Nineveh, and Jesus preached in Galilee. God’s message is meant to be shared, not kept to oneself.
The readings of the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B show that God calls people to follow Him. They must respond with faith, repentance, and readiness to leave behind what holds them back.
Resources for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
Sunday January 24, 2027
Abandon Your Nets Lesson Plan
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B reminds us that following Jesus requires trust and commitment. Simon and Andrew left their nets behind because they knew Jesus was offering them something greater. Like them, we all have “nets” that can hold us back. These may be personal goals, fears, or habits that keep us from putting God first.
Letting go of these nets is not always easy, but it is necessary to grow in faith. It takes courage, prayer, and support from others to move forward. The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B encourages us to think about what we need to leave behind. When we trust Jesus and follow Him fully, we find true freedom and purpose.
Litany of the Call to Discipleship
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B reminds us that Jesus calls each of us to follow Him. The “Litany of the Call to Discipleship” is a prayer asking for the grace to answer His call. Just as Jesus called His first disciples, He calls us to trust Him and share His message. Like Simon and Andrew, we must be willing to leave behind what holds us back and become fishers of people.
This litany also asks Jesus for healing, strength, and faith. He called the weak, the lost, and the broken, giving them new life. He does the same for us when we listen to His voice. The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B is a time to reflect on how we respond to Jesus. Do we hesitate, or do we follow Him with trust? This prayer helps us seek the courage to say yes to His call.
The Sacrament of Holy Orders
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B reminds us that following Jesus requires commitment. The Sacrament of Holy Orders is a special calling where men dedicate their lives to serving God and His people. Just as Simon, Andrew, James, and John left their nets to follow Jesus, priests and deacons leave behind personal goals to serve the Church. They become spiritual leaders, guiding others in faith.
This sacrament is not just about leadership but also about service. Those ordained are called to teach, preach, and care for the needs of the people. Their mission is to bring others closer to God, just as the first disciples did. The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B is a reminder to pray for those in Holy Orders and to support them in their work. Their response to Jesus’ call inspires all of us to serve in our own way.
The Book of Jonah: The Depth of God’s Mercy
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B reminds us of God’s great mercy. Jonah was sent to Nineveh, a city known for its wrongdoing, to warn them of destruction. Even though they were not Israelites, God gave them a chance to repent. When they listened and changed their ways, He spared them. This shows that no one is beyond forgiveness when they truly turn back to God.
The Book of Jonah teaches that God’s love is for everyone, not just one nation or group. Jonah struggled to accept this, but God showed him that His mercy is not limited. The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B challenges us to let go of judgment and see others as God does. If even Nineveh could repent and receive mercy, then anyone can. This reading reminds us to trust in God’s patience and to extend forgiveness to others.
Psalm 25
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B reminds us to trust God’s guidance. Psalm 25 is a prayer asking God to show the right path and offer mercy. Just as the disciples left everything to follow Jesus, this psalm encourages surrender to God’s will. It reminds us that His ways are greater than our own, and we must rely on His wisdom.
This psalm is also about patience and humility. It teaches that those who seek God with open hearts will find His direction. The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B invites us to reflect on whether we truly listen to God’s call. Like the psalmist, we can pray for guidance and trust that God will lead us where we need to go.
Resources and Reflections for the Gospel of Mark
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B highlights the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry in the Gospel of Mark. Jesus announces that the kingdom of God is near and calls people to repent and believe. This moment marks a turning point, as He begins gathering His first disciples. Simon, Andrew, James, and John immediately leave their work to follow Him, showing the urgency of His call.
Mark’s Gospel often focuses on action, showing Jesus teaching, healing, and calling others to follow Him. The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B reminds us that discipleship requires trust and commitment. Jesus does not wait for the perfect followers—He calls ordinary people and gives them a mission. Like the first disciples, we are invited to leave behind what holds us back and follow Him with faith.
Homilies and Commentaries for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
Sunday January 24, 2027
Listen to the Voice of God!
Bishop Barron’s homily for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B focuses on Jonah’s story and how it reflects our own struggles with God’s call. Jonah tried to run from God’s mission, but chaos followed. Only when he obeyed did he become a messenger of change. Barron reminds us that we hear God’s voice through our conscience, which often calls us to difficult tasks. Ignoring it leads to trouble, not just for us but for those around us.
Jesus’ first words in the Gospel call for repentance and a new way of thinking. Barron explains that we must let go of worldly priorities and focus on Christ. True fulfillment comes from following God’s will, even when it is hard. Just as Jonah’s obedience led to the conversion of Nineveh, our response to God can bring grace into the world. The choice is clear—listen to God or face the chaos of ignoring Him.
Becoming Fishers of Men
Jeff Cavins’ commentary for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B compares following Jesus to fishing. Just as fishermen need skill and preparation, Christians must learn how to bring others to God. Cavins explains that knowing Scripture, listening to God, and understanding people are key to sharing the faith. He encourages reading the Bible and the Catechism to grow in knowledge and wisdom.
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B also highlights the need for patience and persistence in evangelization. Cavins points out that skilled fishermen know when and where to fish, and Christians must learn when and how to speak about faith. He warns against getting too attached to worldly distractions, which can take focus away from God’s mission. True disciples must be prepared, develop their skills, and trust in God’s timing when sharing the Gospel.
Following Him
Scott Hahn’s commentary for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B compares Jesus calling His disciples to Elijah calling Elisha. Just as Elisha left everything to follow the prophet, the fishermen left their nets to follow Jesus. Hahn explains that Jesus’ promise to make them “fishers of men” connects to the Old Testament, where God promised to send fishermen to bring His people back. Through Jesus’ Cross and Resurrection, this new mission has begun.
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B also highlights repentance. Jesus’ first message is to turn away from sin and live for God. Paul reminds us that everything in life—family, work, and possessions—must be seen through the lens of faith. Nineveh’s repentance shows that even sinners can find mercy when they turn to God. Hahn encourages us to continue on the path of conversion, trusting in God’s love and guidance.
Reflection for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B invites us to reflect on how we respond to God’s call. Jonah was sent to Nineveh, and the people repented. Jesus called His first disciples, and they followed Him without hesitation. Paul reminds us that this world is passing away. These readings challenge us to listen, change, and trust God’s plan.
Embracing the Call to Conversion
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B highlights the power of repentance. Jonah was sent to Nineveh with a warning. The people listened, changed their ways, and were spared. Their response shows that God gives second chances to those who turn back to Him.
Jonah did not want to go at first. He tried to run away from what God was asking. But when he finally obeyed, he saw the impact of his message. The people of Nineveh, even their king, took his words seriously. They showed their sorrow and asked for mercy.
This story reminds us that no one is beyond change. The Ninevites were not followers of God, but they still chose to repent. Sometimes, people think they are too far gone or that change is impossible. But God is always ready to forgive those who turn to Him.
Jonah’s experience also teaches us about obedience. He did not feel like going to Nineveh, but God’s plan was bigger than his feelings. Sometimes, we hesitate when God calls us to something difficult. But when we trust Him, we can see results beyond what we expect.
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B challenges us to reflect on our own response to God’s call. Are we listening? Are we willing to change? God invites us, like Nineveh, to turn back to Him with open hearts.
The Shortness of Earthly Life
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B reminds us that this world will not last forever. Paul tells the Corinthians not to get too attached to the things of life. He does not say that marriage, happiness, or daily work are bad. But he warns that they are temporary.
People often focus on things that do not last. They work hard for money, success, or comfort, forgetting that life is short. Paul’s message does not mean we should ignore responsibilities. Instead, it calls us to keep the right perspective. Everything we have now will one day be gone.
This does not mean we should not enjoy life. God gives us blessings, and it is good to be thankful. But we should not let these things distract us from what is most important. Paul reminds us to keep our hearts set on what lasts forever.
The people of Nineveh understood this truth. They heard Jonah’s message and changed their ways because they knew their time was short. They did not wait or make excuses. They acted right away, knowing that their future depended on it.
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B is a call to look at what matters. Do we spend too much time chasing things that will not last? Or do we focus on what truly brings us closer to God? Paul’s words remind us to choose wisely.
Called to Be Fishers of People
The Gospel of the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B tells how Jesus called His first disciples. He saw Simon and Andrew fishing and invited them to follow Him. They left their nets at once. Then He called James and John, and they also left everything behind.
These men were not religious leaders or scholars. They were fishermen, used to hard work and long hours. Their job required patience, skill, and trust in the process. Jesus saw something in them that made them ready to spread His message.
Fishing takes persistence. Some days, there is a big catch. Other days, there is nothing. Sharing faith is similar. Sometimes, people listen and accept the message. Other times, they turn away. But just as fishermen do not quit after one bad day, disciples must keep going.
Jesus’ call to these fishermen was simple: follow Me. He did not explain everything right away. He did not promise comfort or success. Yet, they trusted Him enough to leave their old lives behind. Their decision changed everything.
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B invites us to think about our own response to Jesus. Do we follow Him right away, or do we hesitate? Like the first disciples, we are called to share the faith, even when it is hard. Jesus asks us to trust Him and follow.
Following God is not always easy, but it is always worth it. The people of Nineveh chose to repent, the disciples left their old lives, and Paul urged believers to focus on what truly matters. The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B reminds us that God calls us, too. Will we answer with faith and trust?
Prayer
Lord, You call us to follow You. Help us to listen with open hearts. Give us the courage to change when needed. Teach us to trust You even when we are unsure. Guide us to share Your message with others. May we always seek what is good and lasting. Amen.
Reflection Questions for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
- How do you respond when you feel God calling you to something new?
- What can you learn from the people of Nineveh about repentance?
- Why do you think Jesus chose fishermen to be His first disciples?
- What distractions keep you from focusing on what truly matters?
- How can you grow in trust when God’s plan feels uncertain?
- What does it mean to be a “fisher of people” in your daily life?
- In what areas of life do you need to let go and follow God more fully?
- How can Paul’s message about the passing world change your priorities?
- Have you ever hesitated to follow God? What happened?
- How can you share God’s message with others this week?
Quotes and Social Media Graphics for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
Music Suggestions for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
Sunday January 24, 2027
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B focuses on answering God’s call, repentance, and trusting in Him. The music selections reflect these themes through songs about following Jesus, leaving behind what holds us back, and committing to His mission. Some songs emphasize trust in God’s plan, just as the first disciples trusted Jesus and followed Him. Others highlight the call to bring light and hope to the world, spreading the message of the Gospel. Many selections are uplifting and encourage active discipleship, reminding us that Jesus invites everyone to follow Him.
- Bring Forth the Kingdom by Marty Haugen
- By Name I Have Called You by John Angotti
- Christ Be Our Light by Bernadette Farrell
- City of God by Dan Schutte
- Come Follow Me by Barbara Bridge
- Fish With Me by Ken Canedo
- God Has Chosen Me by Bernadette Farrell
- Holy (Jesus You Are) by Charles Billingsley
- Here I Am Lord by Bob Hurd
- Here I Am Lord by Dan Schutte
- I Heard the Voice of Jesus Say by The Hillbilly Thomists
- I Surrender by Hillsong Worship
- I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light by Kathleen Thomerson
- I Will Choose Christ by Tom Booth
- I Will Follow by Chris Tomlin
- Lay It Down by Matt Maher
- Lord I Need You by Matt Maher
- Praise My Soul the King of Heaven
- No Other Name by Hillsong Worship
- Seek Ye First the Kingdom of God by Karen Lafferty
- Somebody’s Knocking at Your Door
- Take My Life by Passion and Chris Tomlin
- The Summons by John L. Bell
Music directors and musicians can use these selections to inspire worship and deepen the message of the readings. These songs help people reflect on how they are responding to God’s call. If you have other music choices that fit the themes of the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, share your suggestions in the comments!
Questions and Answers for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
What date is the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B?
The next date is Sunday January 24, 2027.
For other years see the links below:
3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
What are the Mass readings for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B?
The Mass readings for Sunday January 24, 2027 are:
First Reading – Jonah 3:1-5, 10: Nineveh Heeds Jonah’s Warning
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 25: Guidance in God’s Ways
Second Reading – 1 Corinthians 7:29-31: Transient Nature of the World
Gospel – Mark 1:14-20: Calling the First Disciples
Why did Jonah not want to go to Nineveh?
Jonah did not want to go because Nineveh was an enemy city. He was afraid and did not think they deserved God’s mercy.
Why did the people of Nineveh repent so quickly?
They believed Jonah’s warning and feared punishment. They showed they were sorry by changing their ways.
What does it mean to be fishers of men?
Jesus told His disciples that instead of catching fish, they would now bring people to God. This means sharing faith and helping others follow Jesus.
Why did Simon, Andrew, James, and John leave everything to follow Jesus?
They saw something special in Jesus and trusted Him. They knew that following Him was more important than their work and family life.
What does repentance mean in the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B?
Repentance means turning away from sin and choosing to live for God. It is not just feeling sorry but making real changes.
Why does Paul say that the world is passing away?
Paul reminds people that life on earth does not last forever. He wants them to focus on God instead of being too attached to worldly things.
How can we apply the message of the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B to our lives?
We can listen to God’s call, repent of our sins, and put our faith into action. Like the disciples, we should trust God and follow Him without hesitation.
What does the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B teach about answering God’s call?
It shows that when God calls, we should respond right away. Jonah, Nineveh, and the disciples all had to make a choice, and they acted.
Why does Jesus start His mission by calling ordinary fishermen?
Jesus chooses simple, hardworking people to show that anyone can follow Him. He does not look for the most important or powerful, but for those willing to listen.
How can we be fishers of men in our daily lives?
We can share our faith by how we live, speak, and treat others. We can invite people to learn about Jesus and help them grow closer to God.
Why does the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B focus on urgency?
The readings show people making quick decisions to follow God. This reminds us not to delay when God calls us to change or take action.
God Calls and We Must Respond
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B reminds us that God calls people to follow Him. Jonah was sent to Nineveh to warn the people, and they listened. Jesus called His first disciples, and they left everything to follow Him. The readings show that when God speaks, people must respond.
Paul’s message in the second reading reminds everyone that the world is passing away. Earthly things will not last forever, so people should focus on what truly matters. The people of Nineveh changed their ways, and God showed mercy. The disciples left their work behind because they knew Jesus was offering them something greater.
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B invites us to reflect on how we answer God’s call. Do we delay, or do we act right away? Like the disciples and the people of Nineveh, we are called to listen, change, and follow God without hesitation.
Your Turn
God calls each of us in different ways. The readings for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B remind us to listen and respond. Sometimes, this means making changes in our lives. Other times, it means trusting God even when we are unsure.
Take a moment to reflect on these readings. Have you ever felt called to something but hesitated? Have you experienced a time when you needed to turn back to God? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation.
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