3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
Sunday January 23, 2028
Mass Readings for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
- First Reading – Nehemiah 8:2-4A, 5-6, 8-10: Ezra reads the law to the people from morning until noon. The assembly responds with worship and tears, and Nehemiah encourages celebration and sharing, emphasizing joy in the LORD.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 19: The LORD’s laws refresh and guide the soul, bringing joy and wisdom. His enduring commands foster a deep reverence that pleases Him.
- Second Reading – 1 Corinthians 12:12-30: Christ’s body, like a human body, consists of many parts, each unique and essential. Unity and diversity coexist, emphasizing mutual respect and shared responsibilities among all members.
- Gospel – Luke 1:1-4; 4:14-21: Jesus returns to Galilee, teaches widely, and in Nazareth, reads from Isaiah, announcing the fulfillment of the prophecy, emphasizing his mission to liberate and heal, witnessed by his hometown.
Upcoming dates: January 23, 2028, January 26, 2031
The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor.
Luke 4:18
Themes for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
The readings for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C bring important themes to our faith. These themes help us understand God’s word and how it guides our lives.
- Importance of Scripture: Nehemiah shows the people the importance of listening to God’s word. Reading and understanding Scripture brings joy and strength.
- Unity in the Body of Christ: Paul talks about how every part of the body is important. This means every person in the Church is valuable and has a role.
- Joy in the Lord: Nehemiah reminds the people not to be sad but to rejoice in the Lord. Our strength comes from the joy we find in God.
- Jesus Fulfills Prophecy: In the Gospel, Jesus reads from Isaiah and says He fulfills this prophecy. This shows us Jesus is the promised Savior.
- Mission of Jesus: Jesus explains His mission to bring good news to the poor and freedom to the oppressed. He came to help and save everyone.
- Hearing and Doing: The readings encourage us to not just hear God’s word but to act on it. We should live out our faith every day.
- Community Worship: Nehemiah gathers all people to hear God’s word. Worshipping together strengthens our faith and community.
- Empowerment by the Spirit: Jesus starts His mission filled with the Holy Spirit. The Spirit helps us live out our mission too.
These themes show us the power of God’s word and the importance of our role in the Church. They remind us to find joy in the Lord and to live out our faith together.
Resources for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
Sunday January 23, 2028
Divine Reading: A Lesson Plan on Lectio Divina
In the Gospel for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Jesus reads from Isaiah, declaring that the prophecy is fulfilled in Him. This passage shows the importance of scripture in understanding God’s message for us today.
Lectio Divina, or Divine Reading, is a way to pray with scripture, allowing God to speak to us through His word. By reading, reflecting, and contemplating, we can better understand how scripture applies to our lives. For a detailed guide on practicing Lectio Divina, including steps and printable handouts, see here.
All Together Now: A Lesson Plan on Racism
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C focuses on unity and the importance of every part of the body of Christ. This lesson plan on racism uses 1 Corinthians 12:12-30 to show how we are all connected and must support one another. It explains individual and institutional racism, emphasizing our responsibility to recognize and address biases.
Inspired by St. John Paul II and Church teachings, it calls us to practice solidarity by helping those who suffer from unfair advantages and discrimination.
Prayer Before Reading the Bible
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C highlights the importance of being open to God’s word. A traditional Catholic prayer asks God to send the Holy Spirit to help us hear Him through Scripture.
The Bible is alive, and God speaks to us if we quiet our minds. For those new to reading Scripture, methods like Lectio Divina or using imagination to place yourself in the scene can help make God’s word more meaningful.
Psalm 19: Discover Joy in God’s Law and Creation
For the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Psalm 19 expresses praise for God’s wonders and goodness. It highlights the beauty of God’s laws and the guidance they provide. The psalm asks for humility, help in overcoming pride, and freedom from sin. It acknowledges God as our hope and strength. This psalm reflects our desire to stay close to God and follow His truth.
Understanding 1 Corinthians
1 Corinthians 12:12-30 uses the image of a body to explain unity in the Church. Paul teaches that, just as a body has many parts with different roles, each member of the Church has unique gifts and responsibilities. This passage reminds the Corinthians that every person is needed, no matter their role.
It fits with the larger theme of unity in 1 Corinthians, where Paul encourages believers to work together as one. Each member is essential, and by valuing everyone’s contributions, the Church can grow stronger and more united in faith and purpose.
Background Information for the Gospel of Luke
The Gospel for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C, Luke 1:1-4; 4:14-21, shows Jesus beginning His mission. He reads from Isaiah in the synagogue, announcing that He has come to bring good news to the poor, freedom to captives, and sight to the blind.
This fits with Luke’s theme of Jesus as the one who brings hope and mercy, especially to those in need. Throughout Luke, Jesus reaches out to the marginalized and fulfills God’s promises. This passage highlights Jesus as the Messiah, filled with the Spirit, who comes to bring God’s healing and justice to all.
Homilies and Commentaries for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
Sunday January 23, 2028
- On Purpose: Off Purpose (Fr. Mike Schmitz)
- You Can’t Give What You Don’t Have (Word on Fire)
- Luke’s Gospel and Our Identity in Christ (USCCB)
- Your True Home (Dynamic Catholic)
- Homecoming (Order of Preachers)
- Should We Build Walls or Bridges? (Word on Fire)
- Following in Jesus’ Footsteps (Jeff Cavins)
- A New Day Dawns (Hahn)
On Purpose: Off Purpose
For the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Fr. Mike Schmitz reflects on how we are created on purpose and for a purpose by God. He emphasizes that, like Nehemiah rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls, we are called to focus on our mission without giving in to distractions, forgetting, comparison, or shadow missions. Nehemiah’s resolve—“I have begun a great work and cannot come down”—serves as a reminder to stay faithful to God’s purpose, no matter the challenges or temptations that arise.
Fr. Mike reminds us that living off purpose often happens slowly, through distractions or losing sight of who we are in Christ. He shares how spending time with God, especially through prayer and Scripture, helps us realign with our mission. On the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, we are encouraged to reject the temptations to drift and remember that we are set apart for a great work in God’s plan.
You Can’t Give What You Don’t Have
For the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Bishop Robert Barron reflects on the need for both walls and bridges in the life of faith. Drawing from the book of Nehemiah, he explains how the Israelites, returning from exile, rebuilt Jerusalem’s walls to protect their city and reestablish their identity. At the same time, Ezra, the priest, rebuilt the spiritual walls of the people by reading the Torah, reminding them of who they were. Walls, both physical and spiritual, define and strengthen us as a people of faith.
Bishop Barron reminds us that while walls give identity, bridges are also essential. In the Gospel, Jesus reads from Isaiah in the synagogue, proclaiming His mission to bring good news to the poor and freedom to the oppressed. The church, like Israel, must be secure in its identity to share Christ’s light with the world. Balancing walls and bridges is the ongoing call of the Christian life.
Luke’s Gospel and Our Identity in Christ
For the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Fr. Greg Friedman reflects on Luke’s purpose in retelling the story of Jesus. Writing for third-generation Christians in the 80s, Luke aimed to strengthen their faith during difficult times. These Gentile converts faced challenges from Greek culture, Roman politics, and internal struggles in their community. Luke assured them that the teachings they had received were trustworthy and rooted in Jesus’ life and mission, fulfilling the promises of God throughout history.
Fr. Friedman reminds us that, like Luke’s audience, we live in a world of doubts and challenges. On the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, we hear Jesus in Nazareth proclaim that Isaiah’s prophecy has been fulfilled in Him. Luke’s Gospel serves as a reminder that God’s saving work continues in Christ and that we are called to trust in His teachings and live as faithful disciples in our time.
Your True Home
For the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Matthew Kelly reflects on Jesus reading from Isaiah in His hometown synagogue, proclaiming, “Today this scripture has been fulfilled in your hearing.” This moment reminds us of the deep connection we have to home. Our yearning for home reflects a deeper longing for union with God, who is our true home. Whether our feelings about home are positive or difficult, the desire for belonging points to our ultimate purpose: to live in God and let Him transform every part of our lives.
Kelly emphasizes that when God is at the center, everything holds together, but without Him, things fall apart. On the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, we are invited to reconnect with God in a new or renewed way. Allowing God to take His central place in our lives can reshape how we think, act, and relate to others and ourselves.
Homecoming
For the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Sr. Connie Koch reflects on Jesus’ return to Galilee, where He reads from Isaiah in the synagogue. Jesus announces His mission to bring good news to the poor, freedom to captives, sight to the blind, and liberation for the oppressed. He proclaims that this scripture is fulfilled in Him. This moment reveals Jesus’ purpose and sets the pattern for His followers to live out justice and love in the world.
Sr. Connie reminds us that, like Jesus, we are anointed by the Spirit and called to respond to the struggles of others. On the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, we are urged to offer real help to those who are suffering—those in poverty, captivity, or oppression. Jesus’ words are not just symbolic but a call to action, inviting us to work for justice and bring hope to those in need.
Should We Build Walls or Bridges?
Bishop Robert Barron’s homily for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C reflects on the importance of Ezra and Nehemiah in rebuilding Jerusalem after the exile. Nehemiah, a political leader, focuses on rebuilding the city’s walls, while Ezra, a priest, emphasizes teaching the Torah.
Bishop Barron highlights how these walls and laws define and protect the community’s identity. He warns against losing this identity by overly blending with modern culture. Barron concludes that the Church, like ancient Israel, must know and preserve its identity to effectively spread the light of Christ to the world.
Following in Jesus’ Footsteps
In his reflection for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Jeff Cavins highlights Jesus’ beginning public ministry in Luke 4. Jesus reads from Isaiah, proclaiming a mission to bring good news to the poor and freedom to the oppressed.
Cavins emphasizes that Jesus shares this mission with us, His followers, through the Holy Spirit. We are called to continue His work by forgiving and helping others, empowered by the graces of baptism. Cavins encourages us to participate in Jesus’ mission, relying on the Holy Spirit’s strength to set others free.
A New Day Dawns
Scott Hahn’s reflection for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C explains how the First Reading shows Ezra renewing the covenant and re-establishing the Law of Moses. This mirrors the prophecy in Isaiah 61, which Jesus declares fulfilled in Him.
Hahn highlights that both Ezra and Jesus read and interpret the scriptures to the people, symbolizing the creation of a new people of God. The liturgy reflects a deliverance from sin and a unification of the Church as one body in the Spirit, paralleling the rebuilding and rededication of Israel.
Reflection for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C invites us to reflect on the importance of listening to and living out God’s word, recognizing the value of every member in the Church, and sharing the good news of Jesus. These readings help us see how Scripture guides us, strengthens our community, and empowers us to live our mission.
Living Out God’s Word
On the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, we learn the importance of listening to God’s word. Nehemiah showed the people that reading and understanding Scripture brings joy and strength. When we take time to listen to God’s word, we find guidance and comfort. It helps us grow in our faith and live better lives.
The gospel also shows us that Jesus studied and understood Scripture. Jesus knew God’s word well and used it to teach and help others. By following His example, we can also learn more about God and how to follow Him. Studying Scripture helps us know what God wants for us and how we can live in a way that pleases Him.
The readings for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C encourage us to not just hear God’s word but to act on it. It is not enough to listen and understand; we must also live out our faith. This means helping others, being kind, and following God’s commandments. By doing this, we show our love for God and others.
Living out God’s word every day can be challenging, but it is what we are called to do. The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C reminds us that God’s word is our guide and strength. When we listen, understand, and act on it, we grow closer to God and become better people. Let’s make a commitment to read, study, and live out God’s word in our daily lives.
The Value of Every Member
On the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Paul teaches us that every part of the body is important. This means that every person in the Church is valuable and has a role. Just like a body needs all its parts to work well, the Church needs every member to be strong and healthy. Each person has unique gifts and talents that help the Church grow and serve others.
Nehemiah gathers all the people to hear God’s word. This shows us the importance of coming together as a community to worship and listen to God. When we worship together, our faith is strengthened, and we feel more connected to each other and to God. Being part of a community helps us support one another and grow in our faith.
Worshipping together also reminds us that we are not alone in our journey of faith. We have a community that cares for us and helps us stay on the right path. On the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, we see the value of coming together to listen to God’s word and support each other. This unity makes us stronger and helps us face life’s challenges.
Every person in the Church has a role to play, no matter how small it may seem. When we use our gifts to serve others, we build up the Church and make it a better place. The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C encourages us to recognize our value and the value of others in our community. Together, we can make a difference and bring God’s love to the world.
Sharing the Good News
On the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, we see Jesus explaining His mission. He came to bring good news to the poor and freedom to the oppressed. Jesus’ mission is to help and save everyone, showing God’s love for all people. This reminds us that Jesus cares deeply for those in need and wants to bring hope and healing.
Jesus starts His mission filled with the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit gives Him the strength and guidance to carry out His work. This is important because it shows that Jesus relies on the Spirit for help. For us, it means that we, too, need the Holy Spirit to guide us in our lives and missions.
The readings for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C encourage us to follow Jesus’ example. We are called to bring good news and help those in need. The Holy Spirit is with us, giving us the strength and courage to do this. By living out our mission, we show God’s love to others and make a positive impact on the world.
Living our mission means being kind, helping those who are struggling, and sharing God’s message of hope. The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C reminds us that we are not alone in this task. With the Holy Spirit’s help, we can make a difference in the lives of others and fulfill the mission Jesus began.
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C teaches us about listening to God’s word, valuing each member of the Church, and sharing the good news of Jesus. These reflections help us see how we can grow in faith, support our community, and live out our mission. Let’s take these lessons to heart and apply them in our daily lives.
Prayer
Dear Lord, help us to listen to Your word and understand its message. Fill us with the Holy Spirit to live out our mission and bring Your love to others. Guide us to use our gifts for the good of the Church and the world. Amen.
Reflection Questions for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
- How can I make more time to read and understand Scripture?
- What gifts do I have that can help my Church community?
- How can I better support those in need around me?
- Why is it important to worship together as a community?
- How can I follow Jesus’ example in my daily life?
- What role does the Holy Spirit play in guiding my actions?
- How can I show kindness and compassion to others?
- What does it mean to live out my faith every day?
- How can I find joy and strength in God’s word?
- How can I help others feel valued and included in the Church?
Quotes and Social Media Graphics for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
Music Suggestions for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
Sunday January 23, 2028
The readings for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C highlight the importance of listening to God’s word, unity in the Church, and following Jesus’ mission. Music that celebrates God’s word and its power, the unity of believers, and the call to share the good news fits well with these themes. Songs that focus on the community gathering to worship, the love of God, and our mission as followers of Jesus can enhance the liturgy. Both traditional hymns and contemporary worship songs that reflect these messages can bring the readings to life and inspire the congregation.
- All Are Welcome, All Belong by Jesse Manibusan & Ken Canedo
- All Hail, Adored Trinity by Benedictines Of Mary, Queen Of Apostles
- All the People Said Amen by Matt Maher
- Cry the Gospel by Tom Booth
- From all that Dwell Below the Skies by Koiné
- God Has Chosen Me by Bernadette Farrell
- God Is Love by Cyril Vincent Taylor & Timothy Rees
- I Am the Way by Craig Colson
- I Received the Living God by The University Of Notre Dame Folk Choir
- In Christ There Is No East or West by William A. Dunkerley
- In the Breaking of the Bread by Timothy R Smith
- One Bread, One Body by John Foley
- Praise the Lord, Ye Heavens
- Praise to the Lord by Shane & Shane
- Psalm 19: Your Words, Lord, Are Spirit and Life by Bob Hurd, Craig Kingsbury & Rick Modlin
- Psalm 19: Your Words, Lord, Are Spirit and Life by Francesca LaRosa
- See Us, Lord, About Your Altar by John Greally, Randall Debruyn & Edward Elgar
- Sing Your Praise to the Lord by Amy Grant
- So Beautiful by Jacob and Matthew Band
- They’ll Know We Are Christians by Jars Of Clay
- We are Many Parts by Marty Haugen
- Word of God, Speak by Mercy Me
- You Are Holy / Prince of Peace by Michael W. Smith
Music directors and musicians are encouraged to explore these selections and see how they can enrich the liturgy for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C. These pieces can help the congregation connect with the themes of the readings in a meaningful way. Please try these songs in your services and share your own recommendations in the comments to help others find music that brings the message of this special Sunday to life.
Questions and Answers for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C
What date is the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?
The next date is Sunday January 23, 2028.
For other years see the links below:
3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B
What are the Mass readings for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?
The Catholic Mass readings for Sunday January 23, 2028 are:
First Reading – Nehemiah 8:2-4A, 5-6, 8-10: Day of Sacred Joy
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 19: Words Revive Souls
Second Reading – 1 Corinthians 12:12-30: Unity in Diversity
Gospel – Luke 1:1-4; 4:14-21: Fulfillment Proclaimed
Why did Ezra read the Law to the people in the first reading for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?
Nehemiah read the Law to remind the people of God’s word. Understanding Scripture brings us closer to God.
Why were the people crying in Nehemiah?
The people cried because they realized they had not followed God’s word. We should feel sorry for our mistakes but also to find joy in God’s forgiveness.
What does “the joy of the Lord is your strength” mean?
It means that joy from God gives us power and hope. We are reminded to find joy in God’s love.
What does Paul mean by the “Body of Christ”?
Paul means that the Church is like a body with many parts. Each person has an important role. Everyone is valuable in the Church.
How can we be like the parts of the body?
We can use our unique gifts to help others. Working together makes the Church strong.
What did Jesus read from Isaiah in the Gospel for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?
Jesus read about bringing good news to the poor and freedom to the oppressed.
How does Jesus fulfill the prophecy?
Jesus shows that He is the Savior sent by God. We must trust in Jesus’ mission.
Why did Jesus say the Scripture is fulfilled?
Jesus said this to show that He is the promised Messiah.
How can we apply these readings for the 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C to our lives?
We can read and follow God’s word, recognize our role in the Church, and trust in Jesus.
How can we bring good news to others?
We can help and support those in need. The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C inspires us to act with kindness and compassion.
Listening, Belonging, and Sharing
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C, brings together themes that remind us of the importance of God’s word, the unity of the Church, and our mission to share the good news. In the first reading, Nehemiah gathers the people to listen to God’s word, showing that reading Scripture brings joy and strength. This moment reminds us that taking time to understand God’s word can help us grow in faith and find peace.
In his letter, Paul speaks about the unity of the Church, comparing it to a body where every part is valuable. Each member of the Church has a role to play, and every gift helps the whole community grow. Worshiping together strengthens our faith and helps us see our own worth, as well as the worth of others. When we come together as a community, we are reminded that we are not alone and that each of us matters.
The Gospel shows Jesus explaining His mission to bring good news, heal the brokenhearted, and free the oppressed. Jesus reads from the prophet Isaiah and reveals that He is the fulfillment of these promises. Through His mission, Jesus shows that God cares deeply for each of us and calls us to be messengers of hope. We are invited to continue Jesus’ mission by helping others and sharing God’s love.
Together, these readings remind us to listen to Scripture, value each other, and carry the good news into our lives. The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C, calls us to be joyful in God’s word, united in our faith, and committed to making a difference in the world.
Your Turn
The 3rd Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C, invites us to reflect on the power of God’s word, the value of each person in the Church, and our call to share the good news of Jesus. Take time to consider how these themes speak to you.
How do you listen to God’s word, value others, or live out your faith? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
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