Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time
Thursday August 5, 2027
Trusting God in Hard Times
The readings for Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 remind us to trust God even when life feels dry and hard.
The people of Israel were thirsty and upset. They doubted God’s care. Yet God still gave them water from the rock. It was a gift, even though they complained.
Psalm 95 calls us to listen to God with open hearts. It warns us not to turn away as the Israelites did. God is our rock and guide. He cares for us like a shepherd cares for his flock. We are called to praise Him and trust His ways.
In the Gospel, Peter tells Jesus that He is the Christ. Jesus blesses Peter and speaks of the Church. But Jesus also speaks about His suffering, which Peter does not understand. It shows how easy it is to want comfort instead of God’s plan. Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 invites us to listen, trust, and follow God, even when it is hard.
Daily Mass Readings for Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1
- First Reading – Numbers 20:1-13: The Israelites complained about the lack of water. God instructed Moses to bring water from a rock, but Moses disobeyed, leading to his punishment.
- Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 95: Sing joyfully to the LORD, our rock and guide. Worship him with gratitude. Do not harden your hearts as our ancestors did, even after seeing his works.
- Gospel – Matthew 16:13-23: Jesus asks his disciples who they think he is. Peter declares Jesus is the Christ. Jesus blesses Peter, predicting the Church will be built on him. Jesus foretells his suffering and resurrection, rebuking Peter for opposing this.
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 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 2.
Jesus went into the region of Caesarea Philippi and he asked his disciples, “Who do people say that the Son of Man is?”
Matthew 16:13
Themes for the Readings for Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1
The readings for Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 invite us to reflect on our faith and trust in God. They show us how we can face challenges with God’s help.
- God’s Faithfulness: God provides for His people even when they complain. In Numbers, God gives water from a rock.
- Human Weakness: Moses and Aaron struggle with the people’s complaints. They show their frustration but still seek God’s help.
- God’s Instruction: God instructs Moses and Aaron on what to do. He tells them to speak to the rock to bring forth water.
- Trust in God: Jesus asks His disciples who they believe He is. Peter shows his faith by declaring Jesus as the Christ.
- Leadership: Moses, Aaron, and Peter are leaders chosen by God. They guide the people and show faith, despite their weaknesses.
- God’s Plan: Jesus explains His coming suffering and death. He shows that God’s plan often includes difficult times.
These themes remind us to trust God in all situations. They teach us that even leaders have struggles, but God remains faithful.
Reflection for Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1
The readings for Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 offer deep insights into our faith journey. They highlight themes like trust in God, human weakness, and leadership.
Trust in God
In Numbers 20:1-13, the Israelites complain about the lack of water. God tells Moses to speak to the rock, and water will flow. Moses, frustrated, strikes the rock twice instead. Despite Moses’ action, water flows, showing God’s mercy.
This passage reminds us to trust in God even when things seem difficult. The Israelites doubted God, but He still provided for them. Moses showed his frustration, but God’s power was still evident.
We, too, can find ourselves doubting or getting frustrated. But, like the Israelites and Moses, we should trust in God’s care. He provides what we need, even when our faith is weak.
Human Weakness
In Matthew 16:13-23, Jesus asks His disciples who they think He is. Peter declares that Jesus is the Christ. Jesus praises Peter but later rebukes him when Peter rejects the idea of Jesus suffering and dying.
This passage shows that even strong leaders like Peter can struggle. Peter’s faith is strong, but he does not fully understand God’s plan. Jesus corrects him, showing that even leaders need guidance.
We can learn from Peter’s example. We may have strong faith, but we still need to be open to God’s guidance. Our weaknesses do not disqualify us; they remind us to rely on God.
God’s Plan
Jesus’ words about His suffering and death reveal God’s plan. The disciples find it hard to understand this plan. Peter objects, but Jesus insists that His suffering is necessary.
This part of the Gospel shows that God’s plans can be hard to accept. Jesus knew His suffering was part of the plan, even if His disciples did not understand. He trusted God’s plan fully.
We may not always understand God’s ways. Sometimes, His plans involve suffering or challenges. Like Jesus, we are called to trust and follow, believing that God’s plan is for the best.
The readings for Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 remind us of our need to trust in God. They show us that even leaders have weaknesses and need guidance. Most importantly, they call us to follow God’s plan, even when it is difficult to understand.
Prayer
Lord, help us to trust You in all situations. Guide us when we are weak and frustrated. Help us to follow Your plan, even when it is hard to understand. Amen.
Reflection Questions
- How can you trust God more when facing difficulties or uncertainty?
- In what ways do you see God providing for you, even when your faith is weak?
- How do you respond when you do not understand God’s plan for your life?
- What can you learn from Peter’s example about faith, weakness, and openness to God’s guidance?
Homilies and Commentaries for Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1
Harden Not
On Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1, Deborah Wilhelm reflects on Psalm 95 and the danger of a hardened heart. The psalm begins with joy and praise, but quickly shifts to a warning. When we let anger, resentment, or despair take over, our hearts can grow hard. That hardness spreads to other parts of our lives and even to other people.
Deborah Wilhelm reminds us that a soft heart is open to God’s presence and to others. A soft heart can listen, kneel, and love. It knows it needs help and is willing to follow God’s voice. It brings peace and justice because it remembers that no one is alone—we are part of a flock. A softened heart makes room for others and for God.
A Promise That Holds
On Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1, Jesus takes his disciples to a quiet place and asks who they believe he is. Peter answers with deep faith, calling Jesus the Christ, the Son of the living God. Jesus responds with a lasting promise that his Church will stand firm, even against the gates of hell.
Fr. Roger Lopez reflects on how this promise is stronger than any handshake or signed contract. He reminds us that even when the Church faces confusion or division, Jesus’s words still hold true. Through all the changes and challenges, we can trust that Christ will never abandon his Church.
Faith from Above
On Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1, Jesus asks his disciples, “Who do you say that I am?” Peter answers with great faith, calling Jesus the Christ, the Son of the living God. This response is not from Peter’s own thinking. It is a gift from God.
Bishop Barron explains that this deep faith, given by grace, is the solid rock on which the Church stands. The Church is not built on power or popularity. It is built on a spiritual foundation. Its strength comes from God revealing the truth to those who believe.
Jesus Knows…But Do You?
On Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1, we hear Jesus ask, “Who do you say that I am?” This question is not for his own sake, but for the sake of his disciples. Jesus already knows the answer. He wants them to think about it and speak it aloud. Peter gets it right, calling him the Son of the living God. But just moments later, Peter stumbles, showing that even strong faith can be mixed with confusion.
Matthew Kelly shares that God never asks questions for his own benefit. Jesus asks to help his followers focus on what truly matters. Matthew reminds us that many people today try to reduce Jesus to just a wise teacher or a prophet. But Jesus made a much bigger claim. He said he was the Son of God. Each person must answer the Jesus question for themselves. Who do you say that he is?
Finding Strength in Faith
The USCCB video reflection for Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 compares a pharmacy technician’s story to the readings from Numbers and Matthew. It highlights themes of strength and weakness in faith. Like Moses and Aaron, and Peter and the disciples, we often face doubt and fear.
The reflection encourages us to trust in God, seek prayer, and support each other. Our strength comes from the Lord, and prayer is crucial in our lives.
Calling Each Other Names
Fr. Euan Marley reflects on Peter’s great moment of faith in his preaching for Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1. Peter boldly says to Jesus, “You are the Christ.” Speaking directly to Jesus shows trust and places Peter under His authority. Jesus gives Peter a new name, calling him the rock on which the Church will be built. But Peter also becomes a stumbling block when he tries to stop Jesus from speaking about His suffering.
Fr. Marley explains that names show relationship and responsibility. Jesus gives Peter freedom to live up to his new name, not forcing him to be faithful. Peter must choose to be the rock and accept God’s way, even when it is hard. We also have this choice. We are called to support each other in faith, to be rocks for others, and not to act as obstacles to God’s work in the world.
Resources
The Book of Numbers: Water and Trust in God’s Power
In Numbers, the story of Moses striking the rock shows the struggle of faith in God’s care. The Israelites’ complaint reflects their ongoing doubt, even after God saved them from Egypt. On Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1, this passage reminds us that God provides, but His people often fail to trust Him fully.
This moment also fits into Numbers’ larger theme of leadership and obedience. Moses, chosen to guide God’s people, falters by striking the rock instead of speaking to it as God commanded. His disobedience highlights the seriousness of following God’s instructions. It also shows why the generation in the wilderness faced consequences.
Psalm 95: Do Not Harden Your Hearts
Psalm 95 calls people to worship and listen to God with open hearts. On Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1, it echoes the warning from Israel’s history, where their stubbornness led to wandering in the wilderness. The psalm praises God as Creator and Shepherd, inviting all to respond with faith instead of resistance.
The psalm fits within its larger message of covenant relationship. It is both praise and a reminder of responsibility. Trust and obedience are expected from those who belong to God’s flock. It warns that refusing to hear God’s voice leads to separation from His rest.
The Gospel of Matthew: The Rock of the Church
Matthew 16 shows a turning point in the Gospel. On Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1, Peter’s confession of Jesus as the Christ reveals growing faith among the disciples. Jesus’ blessing and the promise to build His Church show the theme of God’s kingdom coming through those who believe in Him.
This passage also connects to Matthew’s focus on discipleship and suffering. Jesus immediately explains that His mission includes the cross, teaching that true faith accepts God’s plan even when it means sacrifice. Peter’s rebuke shows how human thinking can oppose God’s will.
Explore more of these themes in our guide to the Gospel of Matthew.
Social Media Graphics and Bulletin Artwork
Streams from the Rock: God’s Gift of Life
Bring Scripture to life with this vibrant image for Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1. Perfect for parish bulletins, newsletters, or teaching materials, it reminds us of God’s care and mercy, even in the wilderness.
Share this beautiful scene with your community as a visual reminder to trust in the Lord’s goodness.
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Questions and Answers for Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1
Why did Moses strike the rock instead of speaking to it in the first reading for Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1?
Moses was frustrated with the people’s complaints. He struck the rock instead of speaking to it as God commanded. This shows Moses’ human weakness and lack of trust.
What does the water from the rock symbolize?
The water from the rock shows God’s mercy and care. Even when the people complained, God provided what they needed. It reminds us that God provides for us even when our faith is weak.
What is the main lesson from Numbers 20:1-13?
The main lesson is to trust in God and follow His instructions. Moses’ mistake shows that even leaders can fail. But God’s mercy is always there for us.
Why did Jesus call Peter “Satan” in the Gospel for Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1?
Jesus called Peter “Satan” because Peter tried to stop Jesus from accepting His suffering and death. Peter’s words were against God’s plan. This teaches us to accept God’s plan, even when it is hard to understand.
How can we apply Peter’s story to our lives?
Peter’s story shows that strong faith can still have moments of weakness. We should always be open to God’s guidance. It reminds us that even when we fail, God can still use us.
How does Jesus’ prediction of His suffering relate to our lives?
Jesus’ prediction shows that following God can involve suffering. It teaches us to accept difficult times as part of God’s plan. We are called to trust and follow Jesus, even when it is hard.
Why is trust important in the readings for Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1?
Trust is important because it shows our faith in God’s plan. Both Moses and Peter struggled with trust, but God’s plan still succeeded. We learn that trusting God helps us to follow His will.
What can we learn about leadership from these readings?
The readings show that leaders like Moses and Peter have weaknesses. They need God’s guidance just like everyone else. It reminds us to support and pray for our leaders.
How do the readings for Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 encourage us to face challenges?
The readings encourage us to trust God in all situations. They show that God provides for us and has a plan, even in difficult times. We are reminded to rely on God’s strength and guidance.
Trusting in God’s Plan Even in Uncertainty
Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 teaches us about trust, human weakness, and God’s guidance. In the first reading, the Israelites complain about their struggles in the desert. God tells Moses to speak to the rock for water, but Moses, frustrated, strikes it instead. Despite his mistake, God still provides water for His people. This shows that even when we struggle with trust, God remains faithful.
The Gospel highlights another moment of faith and weakness. Peter boldly declares that Jesus is the Christ, but when Jesus speaks of His coming suffering, Peter refuses to accept it. Jesus corrects him, reminding us that human understanding is limited. Peter’s faith is strong, but he still has more to learn.
Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 reminds us that faith is a journey. We may not always understand God’s plan, but we are called to trust Him. Even when we struggle, God is patient and continues to guide us.
Your Turn
Thursday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time Cycle 1 challenges us to trust in God even when we do not understand His ways. Have you ever struggled to trust in God’s plan? How can you rely on Him more during difficult times?
Share your thoughts in the comments. Let’s support one another in growing in faith and learning to trust in God’s guidance.
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