Thursday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time

• First Reading – Joshua 3:7-10a, 11, 13-17: The LORD instructed Joshua to have the priests carry the ark of the covenant into the Jordan River. When they did, the waters halted, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground.
• Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 114: Israel’s liberation from Egypt is celebrated, and the power of the divine is symbolized by describing the sea fleeing and mountains skipping like rams.
• Gospel – Matthew 18:21–19:1: Jesus teaches about the importance of forgiveness through a parable of a servant forgiven of a huge debt who then refuses to forgive a smaller debt, resulting in his punishment.

Peter approached Jesus and asked him, “Lord, if my brother sins against me, how often must I forgive? As many as seven times?” Jesus answered, “I say to you, not seven times but seventy-seven times.

Matthew 18:21-22

Thursday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 brings us the theme of forgiveness, trust, and God’s presence in our journey. Joshua leads Israel across the Jordan, while Jesus teaches about mercy and reconciliation, showing God’s closeness to those who follow His path.

• God’s Faithful Presence: God promises to be with Joshua and the Israelites as they cross the Jordan. This theme highlights how God remains with His people and leads them through new challenges.
• Power of Forgiveness: Jesus calls for forgiveness without limit. This theme reminds us that forgiveness heals relationships and reflects God’s endless mercy.
• Unity in the Journey: Israel moves as one under Joshua’s leadership. This theme shows the importance of unity among God’s people as they follow His guidance.
• Obedience to God’s Will: Joshua follows God’s command to cross the Jordan with faith. This theme highlights how listening to God’s directions brings blessings and strength.
• Trust in God’s Power: God stops the Jordan River so Israel can cross on dry land. This theme reminds us to trust God’s power to open paths even when things seem impossible.
• Call to Reconciliation: Jesus teaches that forgiving others is essential. This theme shows how forgiveness frees us and builds peace in the community.

Thursday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 reminds us to trust in God’s guidance and live with mercy. Through unity, obedience, and forgiveness, we draw closer to God’s path for us.

Thursday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 brings together themes of God’s guidance, forgiveness, and community. In the readings, God’s promise to be with Joshua encourages us to trust in His presence through challenges, while Jesus’ call to forgive shows us the path to lasting peace. These themes invite us to reflect on how God leads us, helps us heal, and builds us up as a united people.

God’s Steady Presence in Our Challenges

On Thursday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1, God’s words to Joshua are full of reassurance. God promises to be with him as he leads the Israelites into unknown territory, across the Jordan. This promise is not only for Joshua but for all of God’s people, reminding us that God does not abandon us. Instead, He walks with us and guides us when we face uncertain times.

This reading encourages us to remember that God stays with us even in moments that seem overwhelming or challenging. Just as He made a way for the Israelites, God helps us to find our way through struggles in our lives. When we remember His presence, we can move forward with courage, even if we don’t see the full path ahead.

Knowing God is with us strengthens our faith. It helps us to walk in peace rather than worry. When we trust in God’s guidance, we can step into new situations with greater confidence, assured that He will help us along the way. God’s promise to Joshua reminds us that we never walk alone.

Forgiveness as a Path to Peace

On Thursday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1, Jesus emphasizes the importance of forgiveness. He teaches that forgiveness is essential for living in harmony with others. This lesson shows us that forgiveness isn’t just about resolving the past but also about freeing ourselves and creating a peaceful community. When we forgive, we let go of anger, and we open the way for God’s peace to fill our hearts.

Forgiveness is not always easy. We may feel the pain of being hurt or betrayed, making it difficult to let go. Yet, Jesus’ words invite us to keep forgiving, not to focus on the cost but on the gift of peace it brings. Each time we forgive, we reflect God’s mercy in our own lives, showing the same patience that God shows us.

Jesus’ message on forgiveness in this reading encourages us to break down barriers between ourselves and others. When we forgive, we build stronger connections and create a community that reflects God’s love. Choosing forgiveness is a powerful way to build peace and bring healing to our relationships.

Following God’s Guidance Together

In Thursday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1, both the readings from Joshua and Matthew show us the importance of following God’s guidance as a community. Joshua leads the Israelites across the Jordan with everyone moving together in faith. Jesus’ teaching on forgiveness also calls us to support one another by being merciful and compassionate, qualities that strengthen community life.

When the Israelites cross the Jordan, they are not acting alone. They depend on each other and on God’s strength to face this new chapter. In our own lives, we need each other’s support, too, especially in times of change or difficulty. Following God together helps us to feel connected, knowing we are stronger when we trust in God and walk with others.

In the Gospel, Jesus reminds us that forgiveness is key to unity. Without it, anger and division can take root. But with forgiveness, we create a community that values peace and understanding. These readings show that when we act together in God’s love, we become a united people, ready to move forward with strength and purpose.

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The readings for Thursday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 remind us that God walks with us, calling us to forgive freely and to follow His guidance with trust. As we take these lessons to heart, we strengthen our faith, open ourselves to peace, and grow closer to others. Through God’s help, we can face each new day with confidence and unity.

Prayer

Lord, help us trust in Your presence as we face new challenges. Open our hearts to forgive others, just as You forgive us. Guide us each day and strengthen our community with love and peace. Let us walk together in faith, following Your path with courage and unity. Amen.

Reflection Questions

• When have you felt God’s presence during a difficult time?
• How can you practice forgiveness with those closest to you?
• What helps you trust in God’s guidance, even when you don’t understand the full plan?
• How can you support others in building a peaceful, faith-filled community?

USCCB Reflection: Love, Forgiveness, and Transformation

This USCCB video reflection for Thursday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time emphasizes the theme of God’s unwavering love and promise. Both readings highlight God’s commitment to His people. The exaltation of Joshua in the first reading and the parable of forgiven debt in the Gospel illustrate God’s presence in our lives. Jesus fulfills the promise of the old Covenant, guiding us and providing light. Faith and openness to God’s gifts prevent failure. The reflection likens the flowing waters halting at the souls of our feet to the transformation brought by God’s gifts. Repentance, love, and contrition lead to conversion. Forgiveness, mirroring God’s grace, fosters improved relationships on Earth and aligns with the goal of heavenly happiness.

What date is Thursday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1?

The next date is Thursday August 14, 2025.

Cycle 1 is used in odd numbered years and Cycle 2 is used in even numbered years. The gospel is the same for both years. For even numbered years see Thursday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2.

What are the Mass readings for Thursday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1?

The Mass readings for Thursday August 14, 2025 are:
First Reading – Joshua 3:7-10a, 11, 13-17: Crossing the Jordan
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 114: Israel’s Liberation
Gospel – Matthew 18:21–19:1: Lesson on Forgiveness

Why does God tell Joshua to lead the people across the Jordan in the first reading for Thursday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1?

God tells Joshua to lead the people across the Jordan as a sign that He is with them. This reminds us to trust that God will guide us through difficult moments if we rely on Him.

How does the crossing of the Jordan apply to us today?

The crossing of the Jordan teaches us to trust God when facing new challenges. It shows us that God clears a path when we walk in faith, even if the future looks uncertain.

What can we learn from Joshua’s trust in God?

Joshua trusts God’s instructions, even when they seem difficult. His trust reminds us that faith in God’s guidance can help us overcome obstacles in our own lives.

How does unity play a role in the readings?

In the reading, the Israelites cross the Jordan together as one people. This unity teaches us the strength of staying connected as a community and supporting each other in faith.

What do these readings teach about obedience to God?

Joshua follows God’s directions exactly, showing the importance of obedience. This encourages us to trust in God’s plan, even if we don’t fully understand it.

What does Jesus mean by forgiving others many times in the Gospel for Thursday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1?

Jesus teaches that we should forgive others without counting how often we forgive. This shows that God wants us to forgive freely, like He forgives us.

Why does Jesus emphasize unlimited forgiveness?

Jesus emphasizes forgiveness without limit to reflect God’s own mercy. He invites us to forgive others, just as God forgives us, creating peace and healing in our hearts.

Why is forgiveness so important in the readings for Thursday of the 19th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1?

Forgiveness is central because it heals our relationships with others and brings us closer to God. These readings encourage us to let go of grudges and seek peace through forgiveness.

How can we practice these lessons in our daily lives?

We can practice these lessons by forgiving others, trusting God, and following His guidance. Staying united with others in faith helps us to feel supported and strengthens our trust in God.