4th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Year B (2021)

The readings for the Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time for Year B invite us to recognize Jesus and grant him authority in our lives. In the first reading (Deuteronomy 18:15-20), Moses foretells the coming of a mighty prophet. The psalm (Psalm 95:1-2, 6-7, 7-9) entreats us “If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.” The second reading (1 Corinthians 7:32-35) tells us to avoid distractions which keep us from following Jesus. The Gospel (Mark 1:21-28) tells how the people were amazed by the way Jesus taught with authority.

Oh, that today you would hear his voice: Do not harden your hearts as at Meribah, as on the day of Massah in the desert.

Psalm 95:7-8

So possible themes for this Sunday are conversion and magesterium. Here are some ideas.

Melt My Icy Heart Game (for Youth Ministry)

This is a fun game to go with a meeting focused on stubbornness or belief. Or just for fun. Your teens will love it. Each team must try to melt a giant ice cube.

Not in My Basket! (Game for VBS or Youth Ministry)

This is an active game where youth try to get their own balls in their own basket while keeping the other team's balls out. This can be a good game to play for the topics of racism and immigration. If you use the option to change the rules mid-game, this makes a good tie in with a lesson on authority or Magisterium.

Who Has Authority? Discussion and Reflection Questions

The purpose of this reflection is to help youth consider who they give authority to in their lives. Who do teenagers listen to?

Harden Not Your Hearts

Oh, that today you would hear his voice: “Harden not your hearts as at Meribah, as in the day of Massah in the desert, Where your fathers tempted me; they tested me though they had seen my works.”

Leaders We Love – Youth Ministry Activity

This is an activity to help youth think about the qualities of a good leader. It is held in an informal, small group setting so youth will be comfortable sharing.