Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time
Saturday January 18, 2025
Daily Mass Readings for Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1
- First Reading – Hebrews 4:12-16: God’s word penetrates deeply, discerning our innermost thoughts. Jesus, our empathetic high priest, tempted but remains sinless. We approach His throne confidently for mercy and grace.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 19: The Lord’s perfect law revives the soul, His reliable rules grant wisdom. His clear commands bring joy and light. Reverence for Him endures, guiding us in His equitable truth.
- Gospel – Mark 2:13-17: As Jesus walked by the sea, teaching the gathered crowds, He encountered Levi, a tax collector. Inviting Levi to follow Him, Levi immediately complied. At a meal in Levi’s house, Jesus dined with many tax collectors and sinners, drawing criticism from Pharisee scribes. Jesus responded, highlighting His mission to help the spiritually needy, not the self-perceived righteous, akin to a physician treating the sick rather than the healthy.
Some scribes who were Pharisees saw that Jesus was eating with sinners and tax collectors and said to his disciples, “Why does he eat with tax collectors and sinners?”
Mark 2:16
Themes for the Readings for Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1
On Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 1, the readings highlight themes of God’s knowledge, mercy, and Jesus’ call to sinners. Hebrews speaks of God’s word as powerful and piercing, while the Gospel shows Jesus calling Levi, a tax collector, and dining with sinners. These readings encourage us to reflect on our openness to God’s word and our need for His mercy.
- Power of God’s Word: Hebrews describes God’s word as living and active, reaching deeply into our hearts. This shows that God’s word reveals our true selves, inviting us to live according to His ways.
- God Knows Our Hearts: God’s word sees all things, even our hidden thoughts. This teaches us that God knows us completely and calls us to be honest with Him and ourselves.
- Jesus Calls Sinners: In the Gospel, Jesus calls Levi, a tax collector, to follow Him. This shows that Jesus reaches out to those often considered unworthy, inviting everyone to a new life in Him.
- Mercy Over Judgment: When questioned about dining with sinners, Jesus explains that He came to heal those who are spiritually sick. This reveals God’s compassion, reminding us that He offers mercy rather than judgment.
- Approaching God with Confidence: Hebrews encourages us to approach God’s throne of grace with confidence. This invitation reminds us that we can come to God as we are, trusting in His mercy and love.
- Healing of the Soul: Jesus’ actions show that He came to heal not only the body but also the soul. His ministry teaches us that true healing involves forgiveness and a renewed relationship with God.
These themes for Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 1, remind us of God’s knowledge, mercy, and power to heal. They call us to be open to His word, to trust in His compassion, and to accept His invitation to follow Him.
Thoughts for Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1
On Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 1, the readings guide us to reflect on God’s powerful word, Jesus’ call to everyone, and the gift of forgiveness. Hebrews shows us that God’s word reaches into our hearts, revealing who we truly are. In the Gospel, Jesus calls Levi, a tax collector, reminding us that He welcomes all people, even those seen as outsiders. These reflections help us consider how God’s word, mercy, and healing invite us to draw closer to Him.
The Power of God’s Word
On Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 1, the reading from Hebrews describes God’s word as “living and active,” powerful enough to reach into the depths of our hearts. This means that God’s word is not just information but has the strength to change us from within. It reveals our true intentions and helps us see where we might need to grow or change. God’s word has the unique ability to uncover our thoughts and desires, leading us to live more honestly and openly with Him.
This reading challenges us to ask how much room we make for God’s word in our lives. Do we allow it to reach deeply into our hearts, or do we only listen to it on the surface? Hebrews reminds us that we are fully known by God, who sees us completely and still loves us. He invites us to live in a way that reflects His truth. By opening ourselves to God’s word, we let it guide our choices, helping us grow closer to Him.
Reflecting on this, we can approach God’s word with openness and trust, ready to let it work within us. When we allow His word to shape our lives, we find purpose, direction, and peace. Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 1, encourages us to welcome the power of God’s word and to let it lead us to live according to His ways.
Jesus Calls the Unlikely
In the Gospel for Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 1, Jesus calls Levi, a tax collector, to follow Him. Tax collectors were often looked down upon and seen as outsiders because of their work. By reaching out to Levi, Jesus shows that He does not judge people by their past or their reputation. He looks beyond social labels and invites everyone into a new life with Him, regardless of where they come from.
This moment with Levi teaches us that Jesus’ call is for everyone, not only for those who seem “good enough.” Jesus reaches out to those who might feel unworthy or distant from God. By calling Levi, He reminds us that God sees value in every person and offers them the chance to start fresh. This story challenges us to examine how we view others and ourselves, knowing that Jesus’ invitation is open to all.
The story of Levi’s call encourages us to say “yes” to Jesus, no matter where we are in life. He calls us as we are, ready to walk with us as we grow. On Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 1, we are reminded to accept Jesus’ invitation and to see others through His eyes, with mercy and acceptance.
Healing and Forgiveness for All
Both the reading from Hebrews and the Gospel of Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 1, show that God’s mercy and forgiveness are open to everyone. Hebrews speaks of God’s word as penetrating deeply, helping us see our need for healing. Similarly, in the Gospel, Jesus calls Levi, someone seen as an outsider, showing that no one is beyond God’s reach. This theme highlights God’s desire to bring healing to our hearts through forgiveness and acceptance.
Jesus’ actions toward Levi reflect God’s mercy, reminding us that forgiveness is always available. Jesus calls Levi to follow Him, showing that God does not reject anyone who turns to Him. This is an invitation to all of us to seek forgiveness and to let go of anything holding us back. God’s healing begins with recognizing our need and asking for His help.
As we reflect on these readings, we are encouraged to open our hearts to God’s mercy and allow His healing to begin. Whether we feel close to God or distant, He invites us to come as we are. Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 1, reminds us that God’s forgiveness brings healing and strength, helping us to live in the peace He offers.
Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 1, invites us to embrace God’s word and His mercy with open hearts. By welcoming His guidance, accepting His call, and seeking forgiveness, we allow God to bring peace and renewal into our lives. May these reflections encourage us to trust in His love and to live with compassion and gratitude.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for Your word, which guides us and reveals Your truth. Help us to open our hearts to Your call, no matter where we are. Grant us Your mercy and healing, and help us to follow You with faith and trust. Amen.
Reflection Questions
- How can I make more space for God’s word in my daily life?
- In what ways can I be more open to Jesus’ call, regardless of my past?
- How has forgiveness helped me find peace or healing?
- Who in my life could use a reminder of God’s mercy and acceptance?
Homilies and Reflections for Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1
Word on Fire: Without Merit
For Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1, Bishop Robert Barron reflects on Jesus calling Matthew to discipleship. He emphasizes that grace comes unbidden, as seen in Jesus choosing Matthew, a tax collector, without merit or hidden longing. Barron references Caravaggio’s painting, highlighting Matthew’s incredulous response and Jesus’ hand gesture, reminiscent of God’s in the creation of man. This signifies conversion as a new creation. Barron notes that before any task, Jesus invites Matthew to a banquet, emphasizing that the essence of discipleship is not working for Jesus but being with Him, in fellowship and celebration.
Questions and Answers for Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1
What date is Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1?
The next date is Saturday January 18, 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 Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2.
What are the Mass readings for Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1?
The Mass readings for Saturday January 18, 2025 are:
First Reading – Hebrews 4:12-16: God’s Word and Jesus Our High Priest
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 19: Life in the Lord’s Teachings
Gospel – Mark 2:13-17: Jesus Calls Levi and Teaches
Why does Hebrews describe God’s word as “living and active”?
Hebrews calls God’s word “living and active” to show that it is powerful and speaks to our lives. It helps us understand ourselves and guides us toward God’s truth, shaping our hearts and actions.
What does it mean that God’s word “pierces” or “judges” the heart?
God’s word “pierces” our hearts, meaning it reveals our true thoughts and intentions. This reminds us that nothing is hidden from God, who knows us fully and calls us to live honestly before Him.
How can we approach God with confidence, as Hebrews says?
We can approach God with confidence by trusting in His mercy and love. Even when we feel unworthy, God welcomes us and invites us to come to Him for help, guidance, and forgiveness.
Why did Jesus call a tax collector like Levi to follow Him?
Tax collectors were often disliked and seen as sinners, but Jesus called Levi to show that His message is for everyone. This shows us that Jesus welcomes all people, regardless of their past, and invites them to follow Him.
What can we learn from Jesus eating with sinners?
Jesus ate with sinners to show His mercy and acceptance, reminding us that He came to help those in need. This example teaches us not to judge others and to be open to those who may feel distant from God.
Why did Jesus say He came for the “sick” and not the “healthy”?
Jesus uses this example to show that He came to help those who recognize their need for God. It encourages us to be humble, admitting our need for healing and growth in our relationship with God.
How does the Gospel reading show God’s mercy?
The Gospel shows God’s mercy in Jesus’ actions, as He calls Levi and spends time with sinners. This reminds us that God is merciful and welcomes anyone who is open to change and growth in faith.
How can we apply these readings to our lives?
The readings for Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 1, encourage us to trust in God’s word, seek His mercy, and welcome others without judgment. By living with humility and faith, we grow closer to God and reflect His love to others.
God’s Word and Mercy for All
On Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 1, the readings focus on God’s word, His mercy, and the way Jesus reaches out to all people. In Hebrews, we learn that God’s word is alive and active, capable of revealing our true thoughts and guiding us toward the right path. It is a reminder that God knows our hearts fully and calls us to be honest with ourselves and with Him.
In the Gospel, Jesus calls Levi, a tax collector, to follow Him, showing that His message is open to everyone. Despite Levi’s occupation, which was often looked down upon, Jesus welcomes him, demonstrating that no one is excluded from God’s mercy. Jesus’ choice to eat with sinners shows us that God’s love is offered to all, especially to those who feel distant or unworthy.
These readings encourage us to approach God confidently, trusting in His mercy. Jesus’ actions remind us not to judge others but to welcome them as Jesus did. Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 1, challenges us to open our hearts to God’s word, to seek His forgiveness, and to extend kindness and acceptance to those around us.
Your Turn
On Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time, Cycle 1, we are reminded of God’s mercy and the power of His word. Take a moment to read these passages and consider how God’s word speaks to your heart.
Reflect on areas where you might need forgiveness or guidance, and think about how you can be more welcoming to others. Share your thoughts or experiences on how God’s mercy has touched your life in the comment section below.
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