Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time
Thursday July 31, 2025
Guided by God’s Presence
Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 reminds us that God is always with His people. The readings show His care and guidance in different ways. They speak of His presence in the past, His house as a place of joy, and His promise of a final judgment. Each part invites us to trust Him and live with hope.
The first reading tells how Moses set up the tabernacle just as God commanded. The cloud filled it, showing that God lived among His people and guided them day and night. This was a sign of His faithfulness on their journey. God does not leave His people alone. He stays with them and leads them.
Psalm 84 is a song of longing for God’s house. It speaks of joy in being close to Him. Even the birds find safety near His altar. One day with God is better than many days anywhere else. This reminds us to seek Him above all things.
The Gospel gives a warning and a promise. Jesus says the kingdom of heaven is like a fishing net. All are gathered, but only the good are kept. The angels will separate the righteous from the wicked. Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 calls us to live faithfully so we are ready when that day comes.
Daily Mass Readings for Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1
- First Reading – Exodus 40:16-21, 34-38: Moses set up the tabernacle as God commanded. The cloud and glory of the LORD filled it, guiding the Israelites on their journey by day and by night.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 84: My soul longs for the courts of the LORD. Even the birds find a home at your altars. Blessed are those who live in your house. One day in your courts is better than a thousand elsewhere.
- Gospel – Matthew 13:47-53: Jesus compared the kingdom of heaven to a fishing net that collects all kinds of fish, which are later sorted. At the end of the age, angels will separate the wicked from the righteous.
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 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2.
When this falls on July 29, the gospel for the Memorial of Saints Martha, Mary and Lazarus is used.
The Kingdom of heaven is like a net thrown into the sea, which collects fish of every kind.
Matthew 13:47
Themes for the Readings for Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1
On Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1, we reflect on God’s presence and the call to live according to His will. The readings from Exodus and Matthew highlight key themes for our spiritual growth and understanding.
- God’s Guidance: God guides His people. In Exodus, the cloud covers the tent of meeting, showing God’s presence leading the Israelites.
- Obedience to God: Moses follows God’s commands exactly. This shows the importance of doing what God asks without question.
- God’s Presence: The cloud and the glory of the Lord fill the tabernacle. This reminds us that God is always with us, especially in our worship.
- The Kingdom of Heaven: Jesus compares the kingdom to a net that catches all kinds of fish. This teaches us that the kingdom is open to everyone, but there will be a time of judgment.
- Judgment Day: The good fish are kept, and the bad are thrown away. This shows that we must live righteously to be part of God’s kingdom.
- Understanding Jesus’ Teachings: Jesus asks if the disciples understand His parables. This encourages us to seek understanding of His teachings and apply them to our lives.
Reflecting on these themes for Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 helps us grow closer to God. We learn to follow His guidance, live obediently, and understand His kingdom better.
Reflection for Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1
On Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1, we are invited to reflect deeply on God’s presence, our obedience to His commands, and the reality of His kingdom. These reflections help us to grow in our faith and better understand our relationship with God.
God’s Presence with His People
In Exodus 40:16-21, 34-38, we see that God is with His people. The cloud covering the tent and the glory of the Lord filling the tabernacle show that God wants to be close to us. This helps us remember that God is always near, guiding us through our lives.
God’s presence is a source of comfort and strength. Just as the Israelites felt God’s presence in the cloud, we can feel His presence in our lives. When we pray, go to Mass, or read the Bible, we connect with God and feel His closeness.
Knowing that God is always with us can change how we face our problems. We do not have to be afraid or feel alone. God is with us, guiding us and giving us strength to face any challenge.
Obedience to God’s Commands
In the reading from Exodus, Moses did exactly what God commanded. He did not question or change God’s instructions. This shows us the importance of obeying God’s commands fully and faithfully.
Obedience to God means trusting that He knows what is best for us. When we follow His commands, we show our love and trust in Him. Sometimes it can be hard to understand why God asks us to do certain things, but we must trust in His wisdom.
Our obedience brings us closer to God. It helps us live in harmony with His will. By obeying God, we open our hearts to His grace and grow in our relationship with Him.
The Reality of God’s Kingdom
In Matthew 13:47-53, Jesus tells a parable about a net that catches all kinds of fish. This parable teaches us about the kingdom of heaven. The net represents the kingdom, which is open to everyone, but there will be a time of judgment.
The parable reminds us that we are all invited to be part of God’s kingdom. However, we must live according to His teachings to be counted among the good fish. Our actions and choices determine our place in the kingdom.
This parable calls us to reflect on our lives. Are we living in a way that honors God? Are we following His teachings and being good examples to others? By living righteously, we can be part of God’s kingdom and experience His love forever.
Reflecting on these themes from Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 helps us grow closer to God. We learn to recognize His presence, obey His commands, and understand His kingdom better.
Prayer
Dear God, help us to feel Your presence in our lives. Give us the strength to obey Your commands and live righteously. Guide us to be part of Your kingdom and share Your love with others. Amen.
Reflection Questions
- How do you feel God’s presence in your daily life, and how does it comfort you?
- Are there areas in your life where you struggle to fully obey God’s commands?
- How can you live in a way that prepares you for God’s kingdom and final judgment?
- What steps can you take to be a better example of faith and righteousness to others?
Homilies and Commentaries for Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1
Nature’s People
The Gospel for Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 uses the image of a fishing net filled with every kind of fish to describe the kingdom of heaven. Sr. Marianne Watts reflects on how many of Jesus’ parables use nature—seeds, fields, fish—to help us understand heaven. She wonders if people today are too distracted by technology and wealth to see nature’s lessons.
Sr. Marianne calls us to notice how nature still speaks, even when the world often ignores it. She points to climate change and the lack of care shown by powerful leaders. In the end, God will gather people of every kind, not just the powerful or the rich, but those who lived with truth and goodness. We are called to be “nature’s people,” drawing from both old and new treasures of wisdom, living simply and seeking the kingdom that Jesus taught through the world around us.
Stay Out of the Fire
The Gospel for Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 uses the image of a net filled with fish of all types. In the end, the good are kept, and the bad are thrown out. Jesus warns that the angels will separate the righteous from the wicked, and some will end up in the fire. It’s a strong image that reminds us to take our choices and actions seriously.
Matthew Kelly reflects on how easy it is to assume we are always the “good fish.” But life isn’t that simple. We all make both good and bad choices. He encourages us to notice the hellish experiences we sometimes create for ourselves and others. These moments give us insight into what leads us closer to or further from God. Thinking about our final destination can help us refocus and live in a way that leads us toward heaven.
Hidden Treasures in God’s Kingdom
In this USCCB video reflection for Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1, the analogy of flea markets and garage sales is used to illustrate the concept of hidden treasures in God’s kingdom. Just as people find valuable items amidst discarded things, Jesus reminds us that the kingdom of God works similarly, picking up both treasure and junk.
We are called to recognize our priceless worth as part of God’s artwork and radiate His love and grace in our everyday lives, even in seemingly ordinary surroundings. Embracing our identity as valuable treasures in God’s kingdom can bring light and beauty to the world around us.
Embracing the Kingdom’s Mystery
From Bishop Robert Barron for Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1. The first parable speaks of the final gathering of all creation at the end of time, emphasizing the need for readiness and alignment with God’s rule. The second parable illustrates the balance between tradition and innovation in the kingdom.
Jesus’ ministry builds upon the past while introducing something new and unprecedented through the work of the Holy Spirit. Those learned in the ways of the kingdom appreciate the heritage of faith and remain open to the Spirit’s guidance for new revelations. As we journey in the kingdom, let us be watchful, responsive, and receptive to God’s unfolding plan.
Resources
The Book of Exodus: God’s Presence Among His People
In Exodus, God’s presence with His people is shown through signs and instructions. Moses setting up the tabernacle shows obedience to God’s covenant. It also reminds Israel that God chose to dwell with them. This reflects the larger theme of God guiding His people and making them holy through His presence. Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 highlights this closeness.
The cloud filling the tabernacle connects to the larger story of God leading Israel from slavery to freedom. His presence guides them in every step of their journey. Exodus often shows God as both near and holy, dwelling with His people while teaching them to follow His ways.
Learn more about the message of Exodus in this article on understanding the book.
Psalm 84: Longing for God’s Dwelling
Psalm 84 expresses a deep desire to be near God. The writer’s longing for the courts of the Lord reflects a heart that values worship and closeness to God above all else. On Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1, this psalm connects to the idea of finding joy and blessing in God’s house.
This psalm fits with the book’s larger theme of trusting God’s goodness. It speaks of safety, peace, and happiness in His presence. The image of even birds finding a home at the altar shows God’s care for all creation.
Explore more reflections on this psalm in this prayerful look at Psalm 84.
The Gospel of Matthew: The Final Sorting
Matthew often focuses on the kingdom of heaven and what it means to follow Jesus. The parable of the fishing net shows that God’s kingdom includes all, but there will be a final judgment. Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 reminds us to live faithfully now because the righteous and wicked will be separated in the end.
This fits Matthew’s wider theme of preparing for God’s kingdom through right living. Like other parables in this chapter, it urges repentance and readiness. The Gospel often calls for true discipleship, not just words, but actions that show love and faithfulness.
Read more about the themes of Matthew in this guide to the Gospel.
Social Media Graphics and Bulletin Artwork
The Great Catch
This vibrant image is perfect for parish bulletins and newsletters. It captures the message of the Gospel for Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 in a simple, eye-catching way.
Share it with your community to inspire reflection on the kingdom of heaven. Download it and use it in your parish communications.
Paid subscribers may download a large copy this digital artwork (without watermarks) free of charge by clicking here. You must be logged in as a paid subscriber to access the file.
Only current paid subscribers have the rights to use the artwork.
If you would like this image to be made available as a specific product (card, poster, mug, etc.) or as an extra high resolution image for personal use just post a comment about what you want and we will create a link to our online store for you.
Questions and Answers for Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1
What is the main message in the first reading for Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1?
The main message is that God is always with His people. The cloud and the glory of the Lord show God’s presence guiding the Israelites.
Why is Moses’ obedience important in Exodus 40:16-21?
Moses’ obedience is important because it shows his trust in God. He follows God’s commands exactly, which teaches us to trust and obey God fully.
Why did the cloud fill the tabernacle in Exodus?
The cloud filled the tabernacle to show that God was present with His people. It was a sign that God was guiding and protecting them.
How does the cloud covering the tent relate to our lives?
The cloud covering the tent shows that God is near. It reminds us that God is always with us, guiding and protecting us in our daily lives.
How can we apply the message of obedience from Exodus to our lives?
We can apply this message by trusting and following God’s commands. Obeying God helps us live in harmony with His will and grow closer to Him.
What does the net in the Gospel for Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 represent?
The net represents the kingdom of heaven. It shows that everyone is invited to God’s kingdom, but there will be a time of judgment.
What can we learn from the good and bad fish in Matthew 13:47-53?
The good and bad fish teach us that our actions matter. We need to live righteously to be part of God’s kingdom.
How does Jesus’ parable about the net help us understand God’s kingdom?
The parable helps us understand that God’s kingdom is open to all, but we must live according to His teachings. It calls us to reflect on our actions and strive to be good and faithful followers.
What should we do to be part of God’s kingdom as taught in the readings for Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1?
To be part of God’s kingdom, we should live righteously, follow Jesus’ teachings, and strive to do good in our daily lives.
God’s Presence and the Final Judgment
In the first reading from Exodus, Moses sets up the Tabernacle exactly as God commands. The cloud of God’s presence fills the Tabernacle, showing that God is with His people. The Israelites follow the cloud, which guides them on their journey. When the cloud moves, they move; when it stays, they stay. This shows the importance of trusting and following God’s guidance.
In the Gospel, Jesus compares the Kingdom of heaven to a net cast into the sea. The net gathers all kinds of fish, and at the end, the good fish are kept, while the bad ones are thrown away. This parable reminds us that there will be a final judgment. God will separate the good from the bad based on how we live our lives.
These readings for Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 teach us to trust in God’s presence and guidance and to live in a way that prepares us for His judgment. They remind us that God is always with us, leading us and calling us to follow His ways.
Your Turn
Take a moment to reflect on the readings for Thursday of the 17th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1. Are you following God’s guidance in your life? How are you preparing for the final judgment by living out your faith?
Share your thoughts in the comments. Let’s encourage one another to trust in God’s presence and live according to His ways.
Leave a Reply