Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time
Friday May 21, 2027
Daily Mass Readings for Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1
- First Reading – Sirach 6:5-17: True friendship is invaluable, providing shelter and reflecting one’s character. Careful discernment is essential as friends can prove fair-weather or foes.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 119: I seek guidance and instruction in God’s laws, desiring to understand and follow them wholeheartedly, finding joy and delight in His commandments.
- Gospel – Mark 10:1-12: Jesus teaches that marriage is a sacred union intended by God to be indissoluble. Divorcing and remarrying constitutes adultery.
Upcoming dates: May 21, 2027, May 25, 2029, February 26, 2033
Therefore what God has joined together, no human being must separate.
Matthew 19:6
Themes for the Readings for Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1
The readings for Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 focus on deep relationships and their moral implications. They guide us on how to value and nurture these bonds.
- Value of Friendship: Sirach teaches that a good friendship is a treasure. It must be chosen with care because true friends are a great support in life.
- Test of Friendship: The reading from Sirach warns that some friends can be unreliable. It’s important to know who can stand by you in tough times.
- Sanctity of Marriage: Jesus states in Mark that marriage is a permanent union by God’s design. This teaches us to respect and uphold the commitment of marriage.
- Consequences of Divorce: The Gospel explains that breaking the marital bond and remarrying is wrong. It challenges us to view marriage as a lifelong commitment.
In our everyday lives, these themes for Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 remind us to cherish and respect the bonds we form. These readings encourage us to act with integrity in our relationships, valuing loyalty and commitment.
Reflection for Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1
The readings for Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 guide us to reflect on the importance of our relationships. They teach us to value true friendship, to honor the sacred commitment of marriage, and to be faithful in all our dealings with others. These lessons call us to approach our relationships with care, respect, and love.
The Treasure of True Friendship
The first reading for Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 reflects on the value of friendship. Sirach teaches that a true friend is rare and precious, like a hidden treasure. Such friendships offer strength, support, and joy throughout life.
Choosing friends wisely is important. A true friend will stand by us in good times and bad. They will encourage us when we are struggling and celebrate with us in times of joy. On the other hand, a false friend can lead us astray or abandon us when things are hard.
This reading reminds us to be good friends as well. Friendship is a two-way street. We are called to be loyal, trustworthy, and supportive, just as we hope our friends will be to us. Friendships rooted in kindness and faith can bring great blessings to our lives.
The Sacred Commitment of Marriage
In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus speaks about the sacredness of marriage. He explains that marriage is not just a legal arrangement but a union created by God. When a man and woman marry, they become one, joined together by God’s design.
Jesus’s teaching shows the deep commitment required in marriage. It is meant to last a lifetime and demands faithfulness, patience, and love. Marriage is not always easy, but it is a relationship to be nurtured and cherished.
By speaking against divorce and remarriage, Jesus emphasizes the seriousness of the marital vow. This call to honor marriage challenges us to see it as a partnership that reflects God’s love. Married couples are invited to grow together, face struggles with faith, and build a lasting union.
Faithfulness in All Relationships
A theme shared by the first reading and the Gospel for Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 is the importance of faithfulness. Whether in friendships or marriage, loyalty and commitment are central. These readings encourage us to reflect on how we treat those closest to us.
Faithfulness means being present and reliable for the people in our lives. True friends are dependable, and good spouses are committed to their vows. This requires effort and patience, but it builds trust and strengthens relationships.
By being faithful in our friendships and marriages, we reflect the love and care of God. These readings remind us that strong relationships are built on honesty, kindness, and the willingness to support each other through life’s challenges.
As we reflect on these teachings, we are reminded that how we treat others shapes our lives and reflects our faith. May we strive to build relationships that are rooted in loyalty, kindness, and the love of God.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the gift of relationships in our lives. Help us to be faithful friends, loving spouses, and kind neighbors. Teach us to build strong connections with others that honor You. Guide us to act with patience, loyalty, and respect in all we do. Amen.
Reflection Questions
- How can you show greater loyalty and care in your friendships?
- What steps can you take to strengthen your marriage or support others in theirs?
- Are there relationships in your life where you need to show more faithfulness or patience?
- How can your actions in relationships better reflect your love for God and others?
Homilies and Commentaries for Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1
Friendship and the Mission of Faith
Fr. McKenzie reflects on the importance of true friendship in the Christian life, drawing from the first reading in Sirach. A real friend is someone who can be trusted, who listens with love, and who keeps confidences. Friendship is not just about personal happiness but is also essential for building strong faith communities. Right relationships with others help create a foundation for living out the Gospel.
The message for Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 is that spreading the Gospel begins with relationships. Jesus calls his followers to preach and teach, but this mission thrives only when built on trust, compassion, and unity. In parishes, religious communities, and daily life, believers must support and understand one another. When friendship is rooted in faith and love, it strengthens the Church and allows the Gospel to reach the world.
Become a New Creation
In the Gospel for Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1, the Pharisees ask Jesus if divorce is lawful. Jesus explains that Moses allowed it because of their hard hearts, but God’s original plan was for marriage to be unbreakable. He teaches that when two people marry, they become one, and no one should separate what God has joined. Later, He tells His disciples that divorcing and remarrying is adultery. Jesus calls people to a higher standard, asking them to move beyond hardness of heart and embrace God’s vision for love and commitment.
Matthew Kelly reflects on Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 by challenging people to recognize their own hard-heartedness. He explains that people can become closed off due to frustration, exhaustion, or impatience. Jesus does not change His message to fit human weakness but calls people to soften their hearts. Kelly encourages people to open their hearts to God’s love and to everyone around them, even when it is difficult.
Marriage: A Sacred Calling
Bishop Robert Barron explains that marriage is more than love, pleasure, or companionship. In recent years, its deep religious meaning has been weakened, even within the Church. Many see marriage as a personal choice, but the Bible teaches that it is something more. Marriage is a vocation, just like the priesthood.
When couples want a church wedding, they often say it is because they love each other. But love alone is not the reason to marry in the Church. Marriage is about serving God and following His plan. It is a sacred calling meant to reflect God’s love. On Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1, Bishop Barron reminds us that true marriage is not just about the couple. It is about God and His purpose.
A Taste of the Reign of God
Sr. Beth McCormick reflects on the wisdom of friendship in the reading for Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1. Sirach teaches that true friends are rare and valuable, like a sturdy shelter or a great treasure. Some friendships are shallow and fade in times of trouble, while faithful friends remain constant. In a world full of division, falsehood, and disregard for human relationships, this scripture passage reminds people of the deep beauty and power of genuine friendship.
True friendship requires openness, deep listening, and seeing the image of God in others. Dominican Timothy Radcliffe describes friendships that cross boundaries and bring people together. Jesus welcomed all—tax collectors, sinners, and outsiders—offering them a taste of God’s kingdom. Real friendship reflects God’s love and presence, bringing healing to a broken world. When people build faithful relationships, they live out the reign of God and reveal His goodness to others.
Finding True Happiness
Dr. Sullivan reflects on the wisdom of Sirach, which describes friendship as a great treasure. A true friend is like a sturdy shelter, someone who can be trusted and relied upon in life’s joys and struggles. Sirach advises testing friendships and choosing confidants wisely, reminding believers that real friendship is rare and valuable. Friendship enriches life and provides support in difficult times.
The message for Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 is that just as human friendship is important, so is friendship with God. Pope Benedict XVI taught that true happiness comes from a deep relationship with God, who loves and calls each person into friendship with him. When people open their hearts to this divine friendship, their lives are transformed. Seeking God first brings peace and fulfillment, helping believers form stronger, more faithful friendships with others.
Questions and Answers for Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1
What date is Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1?
The next date is Friday May 21, 2027.
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 Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2.
What are the Mass readings for Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1?
The Mass readings for Friday May 21, 2027 are:
First Reading – Sirach 6:5-17: The Value of True Friendship
Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 119: Path of Commandments
Gospel – Mark 10:1-12: Teachings on Marriage
What does it mean that a friend can be a shelter?
In the readings for Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1, saying a friend can be a shelter means that a true friend provides support and protection in tough times, much like a safe place during a storm.
Why is discernment important in choosing friends?
Discernment means thinking carefully and wisely before making decisions. In the context of friendship, it helps us choose friends who are good for us and will help us become better people.
How can I tell if a friend is “fair-weather”?
A “fair-weather” friend is only around when things are good. You might notice they disappear when you face challenges or need support. This reading encourages us to look for friends who stay loyal even in hard times.
What does Jesus mean by saying remarriage is adultery?
In the Gospel on Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1, Jesus teaches that marriage is meant to last forever. If someone divorces and then remarries, it is like being unfaithful to the first marriage vow.
How can we apply Jesus’ teaching on marriage today?
We can take our commitments seriously and work hard to solve problems in our relationships. This means not giving up easily and seeking help if needed to strengthen our marriage.
How can these readings affect my daily life?
These readings remind us to be careful in choosing who we spend time with and to honor important commitments like marriage. They teach us the value of loyalty and commitment in our personal growth and happiness.
What can I do if I am struggling in my marriage?
The readings for Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 suggest holding the sacredness of marriage in high regard. If you’re struggling, seek advice from trusted people, consider counseling, and pray for strength and guidance.
Is it okay to end a friendship according to these readings?
Yes, if a friendship is harmful or the friend is not supportive, it’s important to take care of yourself. These readings encourage us to have friends who are good for our spiritual and personal well-being.
Building Strong Relationships
riday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 focuses on the value of relationships. The first reading from Sirach highlights the treasure of true friendship. Friends who are loyal and supportive are rare and must be chosen wisely. Such friendships bring strength, comfort, and joy.
In the Gospel of Mark, Jesus teaches about the sacredness of marriage. He explains that marriage is a lifelong union created by God. This teaching reminds us of the commitment and love required to build a strong marriage. Jesus calls us to treat marriage with respect and work to strengthen it.
Both readings share a message of faithfulness in relationships. Whether in friendship, marriage, or other bonds, we are called to be loyal, patient, and kind. These readings encourage us to reflect on how we treat others and how we can grow in love and respect.
Your Turn
Take time to read the passages for Friday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1. Reflect on how they speak to your relationships. Are you a faithful friend? How can you strengthen your marriage or other commitments?
Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments to inspire and encourage others.
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