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

  • First ReadingWisdom 9:13-18B: Understanding God’s intentions is beyond human capacity without divine wisdom and the Holy Spirit, as earthly concerns often cloud our judgment.
  • Responsorial PsalmPsalm 90: God, timeless and eternal, teaches us to value our days and seeks our return to righteousness, offering mercy and favor throughout our fleeting lives.
  • Second ReadingPhilemon 9-10, 12-17: Paul, imprisoned, sends Onesimus back to Philemon, not as a slave but as a beloved brother, urging Philemon to welcome him as he would Paul himself.
  • GospelLuke 14:25-33: Jesus teaches that following him requires prioritizing him above all personal relationships and possessions, emphasizing the need to consider the sacrifices involved, much like planning a construction or a battle.

In the same way, anyone of you who does not renounce all his possessions cannot be my disciple.

Luke 14:33

Themes for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

The 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C calls us to reflect on discipleship and the wisdom needed to follow Christ. The readings challenge us to choose Jesus above everything else and to rely on God for understanding.

  • The cost of discipleship: Jesus reminds us that following Him requires sacrifice. We must be willing to put Him above all else, even when it is difficult.
  • God’s wisdom over human understanding: The first reading shows that God’s wisdom is greater than ours. We need His guidance to make the right choices in life.
  • Detachment from possessions: The Gospel challenges us to let go of material things. True discipleship means not being controlled by wealth or possessions.
  • Carrying the cross: Jesus speaks about the need to carry our crosses. This means accepting struggles and hardships with trust in Him.
  • Welcoming others as family: In the second reading, Paul asks Philemon to welcome Onesimus as a brother. This reminds us that we are all part of God’s family.
  • Counting the cost: The Gospel asks us to think carefully before following Jesus. Discipleship requires commitment and planning for the challenges ahead.

The 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C helps us reflect on what it means to truly follow Jesus. The readings invite us to trust God’s wisdom and let go of anything that keeps us from Him.

See the Homilies and Reflections section and the More Thoughts section for further expansion on these readings and some reflection questions for the 5th Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C.

Resources for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

Sunday September 7, 2025

Counting the Cost Lesson Plan

On the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, the Gospel from Luke 14:25-33 reminds us that following Jesus requires commitment. Jesus tells His followers to count the cost, just like someone building a tower or a king preparing for battle. He wants us to understand that being His disciple is not always easy. We must be willing to put God first, even when it means making sacrifices. This Gospel challenges us to think about what we are truly living for and if we are ready to follow Jesus with our whole hearts.

The Counting the Cost lesson plan helps youth reflect on this message in a real way. Through discussion and activities, they will explore the struggles of staying faithful, such as peer pressure and distractions. They will also learn how prayer, Scripture, and the support of others can help them stay strong. This lesson encourages youth to prepare for the challenges of discipleship and trust that Jesus will always be with them.

Insights for the Book of Wisdom

The first reading for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C highlights how human understanding is limited compared to God’s wisdom. It reminds us that we cannot always see the full picture, and we need God to guide us in making good decisions. Wisdom helps us align our choices with God’s will and live according to His plan, even when life is challenging or unclear.

This deeper understanding of wisdom encourages us to trust God rather than relying on our own knowledge. It invites us to pray for wisdom and seek His guidance in every part of our lives. For more reflection on this topic, consider exploring this link for insights on the Book of Wisdom and how it can shape our journey of faith.

Psalm 90: Your Blueprint for a Purposeful Life

The responsorial psalm for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, taken from Psalm 90, reminds us of the shortness of life and the need to seek God’s wisdom. It calls us to reflect on how we spend our days and whether we are living in a way that honors God. This reflection helps us see the importance of relying on Him for guidance as we journey through life.

Psalm 90 also speaks about God’s everlasting nature and His mercy. It invites us to pray for a heart of wisdom and to find joy in living according to His will. For a deeper look at how this psalm can inspire and guide us, explore this link for more reflections and ideas.

See a prayer based on Psalm 90.

Understanding the Gospel of Luke

The Gospel for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C challenges us to consider the cost of discipleship. Jesus asks His followers to put Him above everything else, even family and possessions. This teaching can seem harsh, but it highlights the seriousness of fully committing to follow Him. It calls us to reflect on what we may be holding onto that keeps us from giving ourselves completely to God.

The Gospel of Luke also emphasizes themes like carrying our cross and making sacrifices to walk in the path of Christ. It reminds us that discipleship requires careful thought and a willingness to put Jesus first in all things. For further reflection on these themes and how they relate to the Gospel, consider exploring this link for more insights.

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

Sunday September 7, 2025

The Fair-Weather Fans of Jesus

Bishop Robert Barron reflects on the Gospel for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, emphasizing the cost of discipleship. He explains that Jesus challenges the crowds who followed Him as a popular figure by making bold demands. Jesus teaches that He must come before family, possessions, and even our own lives. This is not about hating others but about loving Christ above all else.

Bishop Barron points out that Jesus’ words show His identity as the supreme good—God Himself. Following Jesus requires a total shift in priorities, where everything revolves around Him. Discipleship involves carrying our cross, which means letting go of selfishness and personal plans. Bishop Barron encourages us to take Jesus’ words seriously and reflect on whether we are truly putting Him at the center of our lives.

Do I Need to Hate Mom and Dad?

In his reflection for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Jeff Cavins explains Jesus’ challenging words about “hating” family and even our own lives. He clarifies that Jesus uses hyperbole to stress the need for total commitment to Him. Following Jesus means putting Him first above all else, including relationships, possessions, and personal plans. This level of dedication is not optional—discipleship requires being “all in.”

Cavins emphasizes that when we make Jesus our priority, everything else in life falls into place. Loving Jesus above all helps us love others better because our lives are grounded in Him. He encourages us to examine whether we are fully committed or holding back, and to seek God’s help in making Him the center of our lives. The 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C invites us to ask if we are ready to live as true disciples.

Following or Not?

In his reflection for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Fr. Greg Friedman compares failed projects, like Cincinnati’s unfinished subway, to the journey of discipleship. Jesus cautions those who merely travel alongside Him that following Him requires a deeper commitment. Using examples of a builder and a military leader, Jesus warns that embarking on discipleship demands careful consideration and readiness to see it through, even when it’s difficult.

Fr. Friedman highlights Jesus’ teaching about carrying our cross and renouncing possessions. True discipleship means letting go of anything that holds us back and making Christ our top priority. Even the exaggerated language about “hating” family is a call to reexamine our relationships and priorities. The 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C challenges us to follow Jesus fully, with commitment and trust in Him above all else.

Counting the Cost

In his reflection for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Scott Hahn explains that Jesus calls everyone, not just the Twelve, to fully commit to following Him. Jesus’ stark language about “hating” family and renouncing possessions is a challenge to let go of anything that keeps us from putting Him first. Discipleship requires sacrifice, choosing Christ above all else, and trusting in His saving wisdom to guide us on the path to eternal life.

Hahn also highlights that Jesus Himself paid the price to free us from sin and give us new life. Like Onesimus in the second reading, we have been redeemed and made part of God’s family. No longer slaves to the burdens of this world, we are called to live in the light of Christ, filled with His kindness and wisdom. The 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C invites us to number our days and follow Jesus wholeheartedly.

Reflection for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

The 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C invites us to reflect deeply on what it means to follow Jesus. The readings challenge us to rely on God’s wisdom, welcome others with love, and consider the cost of discipleship. Each message calls us to grow in trust, commitment, and love for God and others.

God’s Wisdom Over Human Understanding

The first reading for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C reminds us how limited our human understanding is. It tells us that we often cannot see the bigger picture or fully grasp what God has planned for us. Without His wisdom, we are like people trying to find their way in the dark.

This reading encourages us to turn to God for guidance in our lives. Instead of relying only on what we know or understand, we need to pray for His wisdom. When we face important decisions or challenges, we should ask for His help, trusting that He knows what is best for us.

We are reminded that God’s ways are higher than ours. His wisdom helps us see beyond our own fears and desires. Trusting Him can lead us to choices that bring real peace and meaning. As we reflect on this reading, we can ask ourselves if we are truly listening to God or if we rely too much on our own judgment.

Welcoming Others as Family

In the second reading for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C, Paul asks Philemon to welcome Onesimus as a brother in Christ. Onesimus was once a servant, but Paul encourages Philemon to see him differently now. This is a reminder that faith changes how we see and treat others.

When we follow Christ, we are part of one family. This means that no matter someone’s background, race, or status, they are our brother or sister. Welcoming others into our lives with kindness and love reflects the way God welcomes us.

This reading challenges us to think about how we treat the people around us. Are there people we avoid or judge because they seem different? Christ calls us to go beyond those barriers and to see each person as a child of God. This kind of love can heal divisions and create stronger communities.

The Cost of Discipleship

The Gospel for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C gives us a tough message about following Jesus. He tells us that discipleship means sacrifice. Carrying a cross was a shocking and painful image for the people of His time, but Jesus used it to show the seriousness of following Him.

Jesus is not telling us to literally hate our family or possessions. He is saying that nothing can come before Him—not our family, wealth, or comfort. If we love anything more than Him, we cannot fully follow His path. This is a hard teaching, but it is a call to be completely committed to God.

Discipleship is not about living life as usual. It is about making choices that put Jesus first, even when it costs us something. We are challenged to think about what we might be clinging to that keeps us from fully following Him. If we are not ready to make sacrifices, we risk starting something we cannot finish.

This Gospel asks us to reflect deeply on our priorities. Are we truly committed to the path of Christ, or are we holding back? Jesus invites us to trust Him and to let go of anything that keeps us from walking fully in His way.


These reflections help us think about how we can live out the teachings of this Sunday’s readings. By turning to God’s wisdom, treating others as part of His family, and making sacrifices to follow Jesus, we can walk more faithfully on the path of discipleship.

Prayer

Lord, help us to trust Your wisdom above our own understanding. Teach us to welcome others with love and to see them as part of Your family. Give us the courage to follow You, even when it means making sacrifices. May we always put You first in our lives. Amen.

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

  • What areas of your life do you need to entrust more fully to God’s wisdom?
  • How can you welcome others as part of God’s family in your daily life?
  • What sacrifices might God be asking you to make to follow Him more fully?
  • Are there things in your life that you love more than Jesus? How can you change this?
  • How does the first reading challenge you to seek God’s wisdom in your decisions?
  • What does it mean to carry your cross in your daily life?
  • How does putting Jesus first affect your relationships with family and friends?
  • What might you need to give up to follow Jesus without hesitation?
  • How can you show others that they are loved as part of God’s family?
  • Do you sometimes rely too much on your own understanding instead of asking for God’s guidance?

Quotes and Social Media Graphics for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

Who can know God’s counsel, or who can conceive what the LORD intends? For the deliberations of mortals are timid, and unsure are our plans.
23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C

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

Sunday September 7, 2025

These music selections reflect the themes of the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C by focusing on discipleship, trust in God, and the call to follow Jesus. Some songs highlight the cost of following Christ, encouraging us to let go of attachments and commit fully to His path. Others inspire us to seek God’s wisdom, welcome others as part of His family, and remain faithful even when faced with challenges. The music varies from reflective and prayerful to uplifting and encouraging, supporting the call to walk with Jesus in every part of life.

Music directors and musicians are encouraged to explore these selections for their liturgies and consider how they connect with the message of the readings for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C. Share your own song suggestions or experiences with these themes in the comments. Your input can help others enrich their worship with meaningful and inspiring music.

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

What date is the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?

The next date is Sunday September 7, 2025.
For other years see the links below:
23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year A
23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year B

What are the Mass readings for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?

The Mass readings for Sunday September 7, 2025 are:
First Reading – Wisdom 9:13-18B: Divine Guidance Sought
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 90: Eternal Shelter
Second Reading – Philemon 9-10, 12-17: Welcome Onesimus
Gospel – Luke 14:25-33: True Discipleship

What does the first reading teach us?

The first reading for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C reminds us that human wisdom alone is not enough. We need God’s guidance to understand His will and make good decisions.

How does the second reading teach about relationships?

The second reading for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C shows how faith changes the way we treat others. Paul’s message about Onesimus teaches us to welcome and love one another as brothers and sisters in Christ.

Why does the Gospel for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C talk about planning?

Jesus talks about counting the cost of discipleship to help us understand its seriousness. Just as someone plans before building, we should prepare for the sacrifices of following Him.

Why does Jesus talk about hating family?

Jesus uses strong words in the Gospel to show how important it is to put Him first. He is not asking us to reject our family but to make sure our love for Him comes before all else.

What does it mean to carry our cross?

Carrying the cross means accepting life’s struggles and trusting God in difficult times. It shows that discipleship is about staying faithful even when the path is hard.

How can we let go of possessions?

The Gospel challenges us not to let material things control us. We can do this by being generous, trusting God, and focusing on what truly matters in life.

Why is wisdom important in these readings for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C?

The readings show that we cannot fully understand God’s ways on our own. They teach us to seek His wisdom and rely on Him for guidance in our decisions.

What does discipleship mean in these readings?

The 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C teaches that discipleship means putting Jesus first and being ready to follow Him no matter the cost. It involves trust, sacrifice, and a faithful commitment to His path.

How can we live as part of God’s family?

The second reading calls us to see others as part of God’s family. We can live this out by showing love, forgiveness, and kindness in our relationships.

Discipleship Requires Commitment

The 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C focuses on the cost of following Jesus. The readings remind us that discipleship is not easy. We are called to put God above everything, even our family, possessions, and comforts. Jesus asks for total commitment, which can be challenging but leads us closer to Him.

The first reading teaches that human wisdom is limited. It reminds us to rely on God’s guidance to know what is right. We need His help to make good decisions and to understand what it means to live as His followers.

In the Gospel, Jesus uses strong words to show that following Him takes sacrifice. We must carry our cross, which means accepting hardships and putting Him first. He also warns us to count the cost of being His disciple, comparing it to someone planning a building or preparing for battle.

The second reading highlights love and forgiveness. Paul asks Philemon to welcome Onesimus as a brother in Christ. This reminds us that faith should change how we treat others, making us more loving and inclusive.

The 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C invites us to think about our priorities. It challenges us to trust God more and to let go of anything that pulls us away from Him.

Your Turn

Reflect on the readings for the 23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C. Ask yourself what it means to follow Jesus in your daily life.

Consider how these lessons apply to you. Share your thoughts or experiences in the comment section below. Your reflection might encourage others on their journey of faith.

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Comments

One response to “23rd Sunday in Ordinary Time Year C (Sept 7, 2025) Free Resources and Reflections”

  1. Fr Fran Tatau Avatar
    Fr Fran Tatau

    I like this homily. May I be provided with every Sundays’ homily please

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