Daily Mass Readings for Monday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time
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. When this falls on October 2, the gospel for the Memorial of the Guardian Angels is used.
- First Reading (Cycle 1) - Zechariah 8:1-8: The Lord promises to return to Zion and make Jerusalem a city of faithfulness. Elderly people and children will populate its streets. Despite seeming impossible, God vows to bring his people back.
- First Reading (Cycle 2) - Job 1:6-22: Satan challenges Job's faithfulness, claiming he's loyal because he's blessed. God allows Satan to take Job's possessions and children but not harm him. Despite his losses, Job remains faithful and doesn't curse God.
- Responsorial Psalm (Cycle 1) - Psalm 102: The LORD will rebuild Zion and appear gloriously, listening to the prayers of the destitute. Future generations will praise Him, and people will gather in Jerusalem to serve the LORD.
- Responsorial Psalm (Cycle 2) - Psalm 17: I call upon the LORD for a just judgment, confident in my sincerity. Though tested, I remain faithful, and ask God to show mercy and provide refuge against my enemies.
- Gospel - Luke 9:46-50: Jesus corrects his disciples' focus on being the greatest by using a child as a lesson in humility. He also instructs not to hinder those doing good in his name.
Themes for the Daily Mass Readings for Monday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time
- Dispute Over Greatness: The disciples argue about who among them is the greatest. This theme delves into human tendencies towards competitiveness and status within a group.
- Humility Illustrated: Jesus uses a child to make a point about humility and openness. The child serves as a symbol of these virtues, contrasting the disciples' debate about greatness.
- Inclusivity Over Exclusivity: The disciples try to stop an outsider from casting out demons in Jesus' name. Jesus corrects them, emphasizing that those who aren't against them are for them. This theme promotes a more inclusive view of spiritual community.
Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. For the one who is least among all of you is the one who is the greatest.
Luke 9:46
Reflection for Monday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time
In the gospel for Monday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time, Luke 9:46-50, the disciples argue about who is the greatest among them, and Jesus uses a child to teach a lesson about humility and inclusivity. He also addresses the notion of who is 'for' or 'against' him. Several key points emerge for contemporary Catholics.
First, the argument among the disciples reveals the human tendency to seek status and recognition, even in religious settings. This serves as a caution for today's Catholics about the dangers of ego and pride within religious communities. The focus should be on serving others rather than seeking personal glory.
Second, Jesus uses a child to illustrate his point about greatness being tied to humility and service. This could be a nudge for modern Catholics to reevaluate their criteria for what constitutes 'greatness.' It’s not about prominence or power, but humility and a willingness to serve.
Third, Jesus’ openness to someone casting out demons in his name, even if they're not among his immediate followers, speaks to inclusivity. This is relevant today as it cautions against a narrow or exclusive view of who can do good or who belongs in the community of believers.
Fourth, the phrase "Whoever is not against you is for you" provides a broader perspective on alliances and shared goals. For contemporary Catholics, this can translate into a more open and collaborative approach, especially when dealing with individuals or groups who may not fully align with Catholic teachings but share common aims, like social justice issues.
In summary, Luke 9:46-50 offers valuable insights on humility, the true measure of greatness, inclusivity, and collaborative action. These principles can guide Catholics in both personal growth and community interactions.
Prayer for Monday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time
Lord Jesus, root out any pride or sense of superiority that may dwell in our hearts. Teach us to be humble and to celebrate the good done in Your name, regardless of who accomplishes it. Amen.
Homilies and Reflections
Word on Fire: Childlike Authenticity in Discipleship
In this reflection for Monday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time, Bishop Robert Barron discusses Jesus presenting a child as the ideal disciple in contrast to his followers, who are preoccupied with their own significance. While Jesus advocates for selflessness and sacrifice as shown through his impending crucifixion, his disciples are concerned with ego and status. A child, straightforward and without pretense, serves as the antidote to this adult egocentrism. Jesus identifies with the child's genuine nature to emphasize that authenticity and selflessness are central to his teachings, which is likely why this narrative appears in all synoptic Gospels.
USCCB Reflection: The True Measure of Greatness
This USCCB video reflection for Monday of the 26th Week in Ordinary Time discusses how greatness isn't measured by accomplishments or control, but by being humble and offering service and love to others. Drawing on lessons from both Jackie Gleason's comedy and the teachings of Jesus, it emphasizes that true happiness comes from giving, not receiving.
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