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23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Sunday September 5, 2027

God Opens Our Ears

On the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, we hear about God’s power to heal and renew. The readings speak of eyes opened, ears unstopped, and hearts filled with hope. God brings life where there was weakness and joy where there was sorrow. His mercy reaches everyone, no matter who they are.

This Sunday reminds us that faith changes how we see and hear. In the Gospel, Jesus heals a man who cannot hear or speak. His touch restores not only the man’s body but also his ability to join in the life of the community. God calls us to open our hearts in the same way, so that we may listen to His word and share it with others.

The 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B helps us see that God’s care has no limits. He comes to lift up the poor and strengthen the weary. These readings remind us that faith is not quiet or closed off. It is alive and active, bringing love and mercy to the world.

Mass Readings for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

  • First Reading – Isaiah 35:4-7A: God promises to deliver and heal, transforming the afflicted and the barren landscapes into flourishing life.
  • Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 146: The Lord is forever faithful, providing justice, sustenance, and freedom, supporting the oppressed and thwarting the wicked, ruling through all generations.
  • Second Reading – James 2:1-5: Treating people differently based on wealth contradicts faith in Jesus Christ. God honors the poor in spirit, promising them His kingdom.
  • Gospel – Mark 7:31-37: Jesus healed a deaf man with a speech issue in the Decapolis. Despite Jesus’ instructions, the news of his miraculous power spread widely among the astounded witnesses.

Lectionary Reference: 128

The readings above are for lectionary cycle B. For other years see the links below:
23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

He looked up to heaven and groaned, and said to him, “Ephphatha!” – that is, “Be opened!” – And immediately the man’s ears were opened, his speech impediment was removed, and he spoke plainly.

Mark 7:34-35

Themes for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

The 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B readings highlight God’s healing and justice. They remind us of God’s care for the needy and the importance of treating everyone equally.

  • God’s Promise of Healing: God promises to deliver and heal, turning barren landscapes into flourishing life. This is seen in Isaiah where God transforms the dry land into streams of water.
  • Justice for the Poor: James emphasizes that favoritism based on wealth is against Christian faith. God honors the poor in spirit, promising them His kingdom.
  • Jesus’ Healing Power: Jesus heals a deaf man with a speech problem. This miracle shows Jesus’ compassion and power to heal.
  • Equality in Faith: James warns against treating people differently because of their wealth. True faith means treating everyone equally, as God does.
  • God’s Care for the Needy: Isaiah’s prophecy shows God caring for the afflicted. He brings joy and healing to those who suffer.
  • Faith in Action: The readings call us to act on our faith. This means helping those in need and not showing favoritism.

These themes remind us of God’s love and care for all people, especially the poor and needy. They call us to live our faith by treating everyone with equality and compassion.

Resources for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Be Open – A Lesson Plan on Listening to God

This lesson plan is based on the Gospel reading for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B. In this passage, Jesus heals a deaf man, opening his ears and enabling him to speak. This miracle highlights the issue of spiritual deafness. We might be too busy, prejudiced, or distracted to hear God’s voice. Just like the deaf man, we may struggle to communicate God’s message to others.

God wants to speak to us and through us, but we need to be open and listen. Reflect on your own spiritual deafness and consider how you can better hear and share God’s Word.

Silent Sorting Game

This game can lead into a discussion about listening and communicating, which ties into the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B and the theme of deafness in the Gospel. Silent Sorting is a fun game for youth groups that promotes teamwork without talking. Players must organize themselves by their birthdays using non-verbal communication. This encourages observation, cooperation, problem-solving, and creative thinking.

The game also builds community and trust as participants work together to achieve a common goal. It’s a simple yet engaging way to reflect on how well we hear God’s Word and communicate it to others.

The Book of Isaiah: Streams in the Desert

In Isaiah, God promises renewal for His people after hardship. This passage reflects the hope of restoration following exile and suffering. The weak will be strengthened, and the barren land will bloom again. It points to God’s power to transform despair into joy and to bring new life where none seemed possible.

This message fits the larger theme of Isaiah—God’s saving plan and His faithfulness to His covenant. The prophet shows that God’s justice and mercy reach even the most desolate hearts and places. On the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, it reminds us that salvation includes healing and restoration for all creation.

Learn more in the article about the Book of Isaiah.

Psalm 146: The Lord Upholds the Poor

Psalm 146 praises God for His lasting justice and compassion. It calls the faithful to trust in the Lord rather than in human strength. God cares for those who suffer and gives freedom to those in bondage. This psalm celebrates His goodness and faithfulness throughout all generations.

Within the Book of Psalms, this hymn reflects the enduring theme of trust in God’s kingship and His care for the lowly. It shows that true joy comes from faith in the Lord who lifts the oppressed. On the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, this psalm echoes the hope found in God’s steadfast love.

Explore more in the reflection on Psalm 146.

See a contemporary prayer based on Psalm 146.

The Letter of James: No Favoritism in Faith

In James, faith must be shown in how we treat others. This passage condemns partiality and teaches that favoritism toward the rich denies the values of Christ. The poor, though lowly in the world’s eyes, are rich in faith and chosen for God’s kingdom.

The letter of James emphasizes that faith and action must align. It calls believers to live out justice, humility, and compassion. On the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, this reading challenges us to build a community rooted in equality and love that reflects the heart of the Gospel.

Read more in the study of the Letter of James.

The Gospel of Mark: Ears Opened, Tongue Freed

In Mark’s Gospel, Jesus’ healing of the deaf man shows His compassion and divine authority. The miracle happens in the Gentile region of the Decapolis, showing that God’s mercy extends beyond Israel. Jesus restores both hearing and speech, symbols of faith and proclamation.

This fits with Mark’s larger message that Jesus brings God’s kingdom through both word and deed. His actions reveal who He is and invite all people into faith. On the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, this story reminds us that encountering Christ opens us to hear His word and share it with others.

Discover more in the article about the Gospel of Mark.

Homilies and Commentaries for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

Be Opened!

In his homily for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, Bishop Robert Barron reflects on Jesus healing a deaf and mute man. Barron explains that this miracle is symbolic of how people become deaf to God’s Word and unable to share it. Just as Jesus physically healed the man, He also spiritually opens our hearts to hear and speak God’s truth. Barron emphasizes that we must “get plugged into Jesus” through the Church and sacraments to truly hear and proclaim God’s message to a world that has become spiritually deaf.

Nothing to Offer

Fr. Mike Schmitz’s homily for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B focuses on the feeling of being invisible, alone, and having nothing to offer. He shares how loneliness is an epidemic today, especially among the young. He reflects on the story of Bernadette of Lourdes, who felt insignificant but was seen and chosen by Mary. Fr. Mike emphasizes that God sees us and loves us even when we feel unnoticed. He challenges us to notice and love the people around us, especially those who feel they have nothing to offer.

Radical Openness

In a reflection for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B, Matthew Kelly focuses on Jesus healing a deaf and mute man from the Gospel of Mark 7:31-37. Kelly highlights the powerful moment when Jesus says, “Be open,” and challenges us to think about what we need to be open to in our lives. He encourages us to ask for God’s healing, to open our hearts and minds, and to truly listen and see others in a new way. Kelly calls us to pray for this openness and deeper understanding in our relationships.

Could This Happen Today?

In this reflection for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B, Sr. Louis Mary Passeri talks about Jesus healing a deaf man with a speech impediment in the Gospel. The man’s friends brought him to Jesus, showing the importance of asking others to pray for us. The man trusted Jesus and allowed him to heal him. Sr. Louis Mary asks us to reflect on whether we are open to spending time with Jesus and letting him heal us spiritually. She encourages us to trust in Jesus, be open to his guidance, and let him work in our lives.

Finding Hope Amid Fear

In this USCCB video reflection for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B, Fr. Greg Friedman talks about the fears we face in life—disease, violence, and insecurity. He reminds us that while some fears are real, we should not let them overwhelm us. The reading from Isaiah tells us to be strong and trust in God’s saving power. In the Gospel, Jesus heals a deaf and mute man, fulfilling Isaiah’s prophecy and showing God’s presence among us. Fr. Friedman encourages us to find hope in God’s love and open our hearts to others, rich or poor.

Seeing the Poor with God’s Heart

Jeff Cavins’ reflection for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B focuses on James 2:1-5, discussing prejudice and partiality. He shares a personal story about judging people asking for money and realizes he needs to change his perspective. Cavins emphasizes that God values the poor and challenges us to do the same. He encourages us to notice and help the poor, reflecting God’s love. Cavins urges us to open our eyes to the needs of the poor and make them a priority in our lives, following the example of God’s preferential option for the poor.

All Things Well

Scott Hahn’s reflection for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B highlights how Mark’s Gospel uniquely recounts Jesus healing a deaf man. This miracle echoes Genesis’ creation story and Isaiah’s prophecy, showing that Jesus fulfills God’s promises. Hahn explains that Jesus, God in the flesh, brings a new creation and makes Baptism’s living waters flow. He sets us free from sin and invites us to the Eucharistic feast. Like the deaf man, Jesus opens our ears to God’s Word and loosens our tongues to praise Him. We are called to be rich in faith and inherit God’s kingdom.

Have You Stopped Listening to Jesus?

Bishop Robert Barron’s homily for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B focuses on Jesus healing a deaf man. He explains that Jesus going to the Decapolis symbolizes taking God’s word to secular cultures. Barron emphasizes that many in our culture are spiritually deaf, influenced by materialism, individualism, and moral relativism. He urges us to bring ourselves and others to Christ, to be “plugged into” His power and hear God’s voice. This connection helps us speak God’s truth in our lives.

Ephphatha

Bishop Robert Barron’s homily for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B focuses on Jesus healing a deaf man in Mark’s Gospel. He explains that the physical miracle also has a deeper spiritual meaning, symbolizing our spiritual deafness to God’s word due to the distractions of modern culture. Barron emphasizes that by moving away from these distractions and connecting with Jesus, we can truly hear and articulate God’s word. This healing represents the process of evangelization, encouraging us to immerse ourselves in God’s teachings and share them clearly with others.

Reflection for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

The 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B readings guide us in understanding God’s healing power, His justice, and our call to live out our faith. These reflections will delve into these themes, helping us connect the messages to our daily lives. We will explore God’s promises, the call to treat everyone equally, and Jesus’ power to heal.

God’s Promise of Healing

In the first reading from Isaiah, God promises to deliver and heal His people. He will turn barren landscapes into flourishing life. This shows God’s care and commitment to those who are suffering.

God’s promise of healing can bring comfort to those who feel hopeless. He transforms dry lands into streams of water, symbolizing new life and hope. This reminds us that no situation is too difficult for God to change.

We are called to trust in God’s promise. When we face challenges, we can remember that God has the power to bring healing and new life. Just as He promised to the people in Isaiah’s time, He promises us the same today.

Justice for the Poor

In the second reading for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, James speaks about treating people equally. He warns against showing favoritism to the wealthy. This contradicts faith in Jesus Christ, who honors the poor in spirit.

James teaches us that everyone deserves to be treated with respect. Wealth or status should not determine how we treat others. God values each person equally, regardless of their material possessions.

This reading challenges us to examine our own behavior. Do we treat people differently based on their wealth? True faith calls us to see and honor the dignity in every person, just as God does.

Jesus Heals the Deaf Man

In the Gospel reading from Mark, Jesus heals a deaf man with a speech issue. Despite Jesus’ instructions to keep the miracle quiet, the news spreads widely. This story shows Jesus’ compassion and power to heal.

We all suffer from spiritual deafness at times. Sometimes we don’t want to hear God’s voice or the opinions of others. Jesus can heal us, just as He healed the deaf man, if we take time to listen.

To overcome our spiritual deafness, we need to spend more time in prayer. Listening to God, rather than just speaking, can open our hearts to His healing. Jesus will heal us if we humbly ask Him to do so.

The 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B readings remind us of God’s healing power, His justice, and our call to live out our faith. We are encouraged to trust in God’s promises, treat everyone with equality, and seek healing from Jesus. Let us take these lessons to heart and apply them in our daily lives.

Prayer

Lord, open our ears to hear Your voice and our hearts to receive Your healing. Help us to treat everyone with the love and respect they deserve. Guide us to live out our faith in all that we do. Amen.

Reflection Questions for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

  • How can we trust in God’s promise of healing in our own lives?
  • What steps can we take to treat everyone with equality?
  • How do we show favoritism, and how can we change this behavior?
  • In what ways do we suffer from spiritual deafness?
  • How can we spend more time listening to God in prayer?
  • What can we learn from Jesus’ healing of the deaf man?
  • How does God honor the poor in spirit in our community?
  • How can we apply the teachings of James in our daily interactions?
  • What does it mean to have true faith in Jesus Christ?
  • How can we open our hearts to God’s healing power?

Social Media Graphics and Bulletin Artwork for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

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Opened Ears and Freed Tongue

This image for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B captures the moment Jesus heals the man who could not hear or speak. It reflects the Gospel message of God’s power to restore and renew.

Use this artwork in bulletins, newsletters, or youth ministry materials to remind your community that faith opens our hearts, ears, and voices to share God’s love with others.

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Only current paid subscribers have the rights to use the artwork.

This is the medicine: fewer useless words and more of the Word of God. Let us hear the words of the Gospel of the day addressed to us: “Ephphatha, be opened!” Jesus, I want to open myself to your Word, open myself to listen. Heal my heart.

Pope Francis
“Be strong, fear not! Here is your God, he comes with vindication; with divine recompense he comes to save you.” This quote from Isaiah is in the first reading for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B.

We all have ears, but very often we cannot hear. There is, in fact, an interior deafness worse than the physical one: the deafness of the heart that we can ask Jesus to touch and heal today.

Pope Francis

Music Suggestions for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

The music selections for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B reflect themes of healing, freedom, and God’s mercy. Many songs focus on God’s power to heal both physically and spiritually, as shown in the Gospel reading where Jesus heals the deaf man. Others highlight our call to be open to God’s word and to listen to His voice, echoing the message of Isaiah and the need to avoid favoritism as taught in James. These songs use a mix of uplifting melodies and soothing harmonies to convey messages of hope, renewal, and the inclusive love of God.

Music directors and musicians are encouraged to explore these selections for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B. These pieces can enhance the worship experience by aligning with the readings’ themes. Try incorporating these songs into your service and feel free to suggest your own favorites in the comments. Let’s create a rich and meaningful worship experience together.

Questions and Answers for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

What is the main message of the first reading for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B?

The main message is that God will heal and save His people. He promises to turn dry lands into flowing waters, showing His power to bring new life and hope.

How can we apply the message from Isaiah 35:4-7A to our lives?

We can trust in God’s promise to help us through difficult times. When we face challenges, we should remember that God can bring healing and hope to any situation.

Why does James warn against favoritism in the second reading for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B?

James warns against favoritism because it goes against true faith in Jesus. Treating people differently based on their wealth is not what Jesus taught us.

Why is it important to treat the poor with respect as mentioned in James 2:1-5?

It is important because God values the poor and promises them His kingdom. Treating them with respect is part of living out our faith.

How can we avoid showing favoritism as James advises?

We can treat everyone with the same respect and kindness, no matter their wealth or status. We should see each person as valuable in God’s eyes.

What is the significance of Jesus healing the deaf man in the Gospel for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B?

The healing shows Jesus’ compassion and power to help those in need. It also reminds us that Jesus cares about our physical and spiritual well-being.

How does Mark 7:31-37 relate to our spiritual lives?

Just like the deaf man, we can suffer from spiritual deafness. We need to listen to God and be open to His healing in our lives.

What can we do to overcome spiritual deafness?

We can spend more time in prayer, especially listening to God. We should ask Jesus to heal us and be open to His guidance.

How does the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B challenge us to live out our faith?

The readings challenge us to trust in God’s healing, treat everyone equally, and seek Jesus’ help for our spiritual needs. We should apply these lessons in our daily lives.

How do the readings for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B help us understand God’s love?

The readings show us that God cares for the needy, heals the afflicted, and calls us to treat everyone with love and respect. They remind us of God’s compassion and justice.

God’s Healing and Justice

The 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B focuses on healing, justice, and faith. The first reading reminds people that God brings hope and new life, even in the hardest times. The second reading warns against favoritism and calls for fairness. The Gospel shows Jesus healing a man who could not hear or speak, revealing his power and compassion.

These readings show that faith is not just about personal belief but also about action. God wants people to trust in his promises, treat others with fairness, and open their hearts to healing. Just as Jesus healed the deaf man, he can heal spiritual blindness and closed hearts.

The 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B invites people to reflect on their lives. Do they trust in God’s promises? Do they treat everyone with fairness? Are they open to hearing God’s voice? These lessons encourage believers to live with faith and love.

Your Turn

The readings for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B challenge people to trust in God, treat others fairly, and seek healing. God offers hope, and Jesus shows his care through his actions. Faith is not just about believing; it is about living with love and justice.

Take time to reflect on these messages. Have you experienced healing in your own life? Do you struggle with treating everyone equally? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments.

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