29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

• First Reading – Isaiah 53:10-11: The LORD allowed the Suffering Servant to suffer for our sins. He will offer his life, see his descendants, fulfill the LORD's will, and justify many through his affliction and bearing their guilt.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 33: The word of the LORD is upright and trustworthy. He loves justice and kindness, and the earth is full of His goodness. Those who fear Him find deliverance and hope in His mercy. Our souls wait for the LORD, our help and shield, as we place our trust in Him.
• Second Reading – Hebrews 4:14-16: Jesus, the Son of God, our great high priest, understands our weaknesses and temptations. Let us confidently approach God's throne for mercy and grace in our time of need.
• Gospel – Mark 10:35-45: James and John request positions of honor in Jesus' kingdom, but He explains that greatness comes through service. Jesus sets an example, stating that even the Son of Man came not to be served, but to serve and give His life as a ransom for many. He emphasizes the humility and selflessness required to follow Him, as opposed to seeking positions of power and recognition.

The readings for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time for Year B speak of the cost of discipleship. The first reading foretells of Jesus' sacrifice for us. The second reading reminds us that Jesus understands our weaknesses. And in the gospel, Jesus warns his disciples that it will be difficult to follow him and they must develop servants' hearts.

• The Redemptive Sacrifice: The first reading foretells the suffering and sacrifice of the Servant, Jesus Christ, as the means of redemption and reconciliation with God.
• God's Sovereign Plan: It reveals God's deliberate plan to use the suffering of the Servant to justify and bring salvation to many, showing His ultimate control over human history.
• Jesus as the Great High Priest: The second reading presents Jesus as the ultimate High Priest who sympathizes with human weaknesses and serves as the mediator between God and humanity.
• Misguided Ambition: The gospel reveals the disciples' ambition for positions of honor and authority, prompting Jesus to teach them about true greatness.
• Servant Leadership: Jesus emphasizes that greatness in His kingdom comes through serving others, echoing His own example of sacrificial service and selflessness.

See the Homilies and Reflections section and the More Thoughts section for further expansion on these readings and some reflection questions for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

King of the Hill – A Lesson Plan on Getting Ahead

In this lesson plan, youth learn that Jesus teaches us a different type of leadership, as emphasized through Mark 10:35-45, the gospel for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B. True leaders serve others rather than seeking power for themselves. This message encourages selflessness and compassion. Following Jesus' teachings allows us to uplift and support others, making a positive impact in our communities and the world.

The Power of God - A Prayer Based on Psalm 33

In this prayer we find inspiration from Psalm 33, the responsorial psalm for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B. This prayer helps us connect with the strength and might of God. The psalmist's words remind us of God's creation and how His word brought everything into existence. It acknowledges the Lord's watchful eye over humanity, guiding us with love and compassion. We are reminded of God's unfailing love and His role as our shield and protector. We seek His guidance and trust in His divine plan. In times of challenge or uncertainty, this prayer offers comfort, knowing that we can rely on God's power to lead us through life's journey.

Prayer for Humility

In this Humility Prayer we ask God to guide us in embracing true humility. Help us overcome the need for others' admiration and attention. Prevent us from pretending to be something we're not. Keep us from seeking praise or being disheartened by criticism. Instead, teach us to be genuinely humble, following your example. Let us not waste time creating idealized versions of ourselves. May we learn to be content with who we are and put others before ourselves. Show us the path of true discipleship by living with humble hearts, following your guidance. This fits in with the gospel for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B.

Do You Really Want What God Wants?

In this homily for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, Bishop Robert Barron reflects on the readings and reminds us of the right attitude towards power and honor. He cautions against seeking these for our ego's sake but encourages us to ask for power and honor as long as it aligns with Jesus' terms, not ours. Jesus' true glory is revealed on the cross, where he wore a crown of thorns, teaching us that power and honor must be sought in service to God's will, not our self-centered desires.

Approaching the Throne of Grace

In this reflection for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, Jeff Cavins point out the humorous request of James and John to sit at the right and left of Jesus' throne. However, the more significant message lies in the letter to the Hebrews, reminding us that we can approach the throne of grace right now. As Christians, we have access to God's mercy and grace through Jesus Christ, who sympathizes with our weaknesses and invites us to draw near to Him at any time. Hold fast to your confession, trust in His love, and receive His abundant mercy in your life today.

Treasures of the Kingdom

In this reflection on the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, Scott Hahn explains that Gospel reflects on the sons of Zebedee's request for royal honors in Christ's kingdom. However, Jesus emphasizes that His path is through the Cross. The cup represents God's judgment in the Old Testament, and Jesus willingly bears humanity's sins and sufferings. As the heavenly high priest, He offers His blood to redeem us from sin and death. Through Christ's sacrifice, we find salvation from death, and we must remain steadfast in our faith, seeing trials as part of our commitment to Him. The Eucharist allows us to approach the throne of grace and partake in Christ's saving blood.

Substitutionary Sacrifice

In this homily for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, Bishop Robert Barron highlights the central theme of substitutionary sacrifice in all three readings. He acknowledges that this concept might seem unfamiliar to our individualistic modern mindset. Ancient audiences understood sacrifice in a collective or corporate consciousness, where actions and responsibilities were shared. In contrast, our individualistic perspective can make it challenging to grasp this ancient notion fully. To comprehend the depth of substitutionary sacrifice, we need to embrace a broader understanding that transcends our individual lenses.

The Paschal Mystery: Embracing Humility and Service

Fr. Richard Rohr discusses Jesus' patient teaching with his disciples, focusing on the concept of the Paschal Mystery—the way up being the way down. This profound mystery challenges our desires for power and prestige. The disciples also struggled to understand this truth and argued about their importance. Jesus reminds them that true greatness lies in being a servant to others. The disciples missed the point, longing for glory and positions of honor. Jesus emphasizes a new pattern of leadership: to be important, one must serve others. If only the Church had embraced Jesus' call to humility and service, peace and justice might have come sooner. This references the gospel for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B.

God's Humble Authority

God indeed is the ultimate source of all authority. As human beings, any authority we hold is entrusted to us by God, and it is meant to be used for the advancement of His Kingdom and the well-being of others. The history of Israel serves as a reminder that when they strayed from God's ways, He allowed foreign rulers to govern them, highlighting the importance of remaining faithful to God's authority.

However, when Jesus came as the long-awaited Messiah, He shattered the expectations of a traditional king with earthly power and authority. Instead, Jesus exemplified true leadership through humility and service. He showed that in the Kingdom of God, greatness is found in selfless service to others.

In a world that often values worldly accomplishments and credentials, Jesus reminds us that any authority we have is a gift from God. Therefore, our responsibility as His followers is to use that authority to carry out the Father's will, just as Jesus did during His time on earth.

Seeking Spiritual Sight

It is interesting that a few verses later, Jesus asks the blind Bartimaeus the same question he asked James and John. "What do you want me to do for you?" The contrast between James and John's request for positions of honor in today's gospel and Bartimaeus's plea to see is a powerful illustration of the different ways we might respond to Jesus's question, "What do you want me to do for you?" While recognition and status may tempt us, the story of Bartimaeus reminds us of the importance of seeking spiritual sight and understanding.

As we reflect on these readings for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B, we are invited to examine our own hearts and desires. How would we answer Jesus's question? Are we seeking worldly honors and authority, or are we humbly asking to see the truth of God's Kingdom and His will for our lives?

May we learn from Jesus's example of humble service and selflessness. Let us embrace the authority we have as a gift from God, using it to serve and uplift others. May our deepest desire be to see and understand God's Kingdom, seeking spiritual insight and growth in our journey of faith.

• How do you view the concept of authority in your life? Do you recognize it as a gift from God, meant to be used for the benefit of others?
• Reflect on times when you have witnessed the misuse of authority. How can you actively work to promote God's humble authority in such situations?
• What are some ways in which Jesus exemplified humble leadership through service? How can you follow His example in your daily life?
• Consider the contrast between James and John's request for positions of honor and Bartimaeus's plea to see. Which attitude resonates more with you, and why?
• Are there areas in your life where you find yourself seeking worldly recognition or status? How can you shift your focus towards seeking spiritual sight and understanding instead?
• In what ways can you align your desires with God's will for your life? How can you actively seek spiritual insight and growth in your journey of faith?
• Think about the authority you currently hold, whether in your family, workplace, or community. How can you use this authority to advance God's Kingdom and promote the well-being of others?
• Reflect on Jesus's call to selfless service. How can you prioritize serving others over seeking personal gain or recognition?
• How can you cultivate a heart of humility and gratitude for the authority and gifts God has entrusted to you?
• What practical steps can you take to deepen your understanding of God's Kingdom and align your life more closely with His will?

• All Hail, Adored Trinity
• Crown Him with Many Crowns
• Glory in the Cross
• Glorify Him by Your Life
• He Is Exalted
• Here I Am, Lord
• Holy, Holy, Holy/God with Us
• In Christ Alone
• In Christ There Is No East or West
• Jesus Remember Me
• Lift Up Your Hearts
• Lord Let Your Mercy Be On Us
• Love Divine all Loves Excelling
• Mighty King
• No Other Name
• Open Up the Heavens
• Praise my Soul the King of Heaven
• Servant Song
• The Servant King
• The Servant Song
• There's a Wideness in God's Mercy
• We Are Called to Serve
• We Remember, We Believe

What date is the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

The next date is Sunday October 20, 2024

For other years see the links below:
29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A: Sunday October 18, 2026
29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C: Sunday October 19, 2025

What are the Mass readings for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B?

The Mass readings for October 20, 2024 are:
First Reading – Isaiah 53:10-11: The Suffering Servant's Redemption
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 33: Trusting in the Lord's Mercy
Second Reading – Hebrews 4:14-16: Holding Fast to Our High Priest
Gospel – Mark 10:35-45: True Greatness through Servanthood
See the readings section of this page for a longer summary of these readings for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B and links to the readings.

What are the themes for the Mass readings for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B?

The reading for October 20, 2024 highlight Jesus' role as the Suffering Servant and the source of redemption, the importance of trusting in God's mercy and providence, the significance of Jesus as the High Priest who grants access to God, and the call to embrace servant leadership as the path to true greatness in the Kingdom of God.
See the themes section of this page for an expansion on these themes for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B.

What is the significance of the First Reading for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B (Isaiah 53:10-11)?

The First Reading from Isaiah prophesies about the suffering servant who will bear the sins of many and bring about redemption through his sacrifice. It prefigures the suffering and death of Jesus Christ on the cross, highlighting the salvific purpose of His selfless act.

How does the First Reading for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B (Isaiah 53:10-11) connect with the theme of Christ's redemptive sacrifice?

The First Reading connects with the theme of Christ's redemptive sacrifice by foreshadowing the suffering and atonement that Jesus would undergo for the salvation of humanity. It emphasizes the divine plan of God to bring about reconciliation through the sacrifice of the suffering servant, who is Jesus Christ.

What is the central theme of the Responsorial Psalm for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B (Psalm 33)?

The central theme of Psalm 33 is praising God for His steadfast love and faithfulness. The psalmist exalts the Lord's creative power, trustworthiness, and merciful care for His people.

How does the Responsorial Psalm for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B (Psalm 33) complement the themes of redemption and divine mercy?

The Responsorial Psalm complements the themes of redemption and divine mercy by expressing gratitude and praise to God for His steadfast love and faithfulness. It echoes the idea of God's compassionate care for His people, which is exemplified through His plan of redemption and salvation.

What is the main message of the Second Reading for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B (Hebrews 4:14-16)?

The main message of the Second Reading is the assurance that Jesus, as our high priest, can empathize with our weaknesses and temptations because He Himself has experienced human life but without sin. Believers are encouraged to approach the throne of grace with confidence to receive mercy and find grace in times of need.

How does the Second Reading for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B (Hebrews 4:14-16) emphasize Jesus' role as a compassionate high priest?

The Second Reading emphasizes Jesus' role as a compassionate high priest by highlighting His understanding of human frailties and temptations. Being fully human, Jesus faced the challenges of life but remained sinless. This makes Him the perfect mediator, able to extend mercy and grace to those who seek Him with faith and sincerity.

What is the central message of the Gospel for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B (Mark 10:35-45)?

The central message of the Gospel passage is the call to humble service and selfless love. Jesus corrects the ambition and desire for power displayed by James and John, teaching them that true greatness lies in serving others rather than seeking positions of authority.

How does the Gospel for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B (Mark 10:35-45) challenge us to embrace a servant's heart and follow Christ's example?

The Gospel challenges us to embrace a servant's heart and follow Christ's example by prioritizing love and selflessness in our actions. Jesus teaches that true greatness comes from humbly serving others and putting their needs before our own. It calls us to imitate Christ's sacrificial love and follow His example of serving humanity.

What can we learn from the readings for the 29th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B?

The readings teach us about Christ's redemptive sacrifice, God's steadfast love, Jesus' role as a compassionate high priest, and the call to humble service and selfless love. The First Reading foreshadows Christ's sacrificial death for our redemption. The Responsorial Psalm extols God's faithfulness and compassionate care. The Second Reading assures us of Jesus' understanding and invites us to approach Him for grace and mercy. The Gospel challenges us to follow Jesus' example of humble service and selflessness. These readings call us to embrace God's love, imitate Christ's selflessness, and serve others with a humble and compassionate heart.