Reflections by Andy: January 2026

Saturday, January 31, 2026

31 January 2026 — Daily Mass Readings

Saint John Bosco, Priest / Saturday of Week 3 in Ordinary Time

First Reading
2 Samuel 12:1–7, 10–17
Nathan the prophet was sent by the Lord to David. He told a story about a rich man taking a poor man’s only ewe lamb, which moved David to anger. Nathan then said, “You are the man!” and exposed David’s sin with Bathsheba and his orchestration of Uriah’s death. David immediately acknowledged his sin before the Lord.

Responsorial Psalm

Psalm 50(51):12–17
Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.
This psalm articulates the soul’s desire for restoration. It recognises sin and seeks God’s mercy, asking not only for forgiveness but for transformation — a heart that loves what is right and true.

Gospel
Mark 4:35–41
That day, as evening came, Jesus said to his disciples, “Let us go across to the other side.” A great windstorm arose on the sea, and the disciples, terrified, woke Jesus, who was asleep. Jesus rebuked the wind and sea, and there was a great calm. He then asked them, “Why are you afraid? Have you still no faith?” They were filled with awe and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?”

Reflection
Today’s readings guide us through repentance, mercy, and trust.

In the First Reading, Nathan’s confrontation with David leads to immediate acknowledgement of sin. David does not excuse himself; he recognises the truth and owns his wrongdoing. The Responsorial Psalm takes up that same theme — asking God to “create in me a clean heart” and to renew a right spirit — not merely to wipe away guilt, but to remake the inner self.

The Gospel presents a different drama: the disciples face a literal storm. Their fear reveals the fragility of human trust. Jesus’ calm authority over wind and sea shows that the same Lord who calls us to honesty about sin is also the one who brings peace amid life’s tumult. His question, “Why are you afraid?” invites us into deeper confidence in his abiding presence.

A moment of pause

Where do you need to be honest about your need for God’s mercy? Where do you need to trust his peace amid your fears?

Friday, January 30, 2026

30 January 2026 — Daily Mass Readings

Friday of Week 3 in Ordinary Time

First Reading
2 Samuel 11:1–4, 5–10, 13–17
David remains in Jerusalem and sins with Bathsheba. When he cannot cover the consequences, he manipulates events so that Uriah is placed where he will be killed. The reading lays bare how sin escalates when it is hidden rather than confessed.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 50(51):3–7, 10–11
Be merciful, O Lord, for we have sinned.
This psalm is the language of repentance: naming sin without excuses, pleading for mercy, and asking God to renew the heart.

Gospel
Mark 4:26–34
Jesus describes the Kingdom like seed growing “of its own accord” — from shoot, to ear, to full grain, until the harvest. He then compares it to the mustard seed: the smallest seed becoming the biggest shrub, a place of shelter. Jesus teaches in parables, revealing the mystery of God’s reign in ordinary images.

Reflection
Today holds two realities together: the seriousness of sin and the steadiness of God’s work.

David’s story is painful because it is realistic. What begins as a private choice becomes public injustice. The Bible does not romanticise David here; it shows how sin distorts judgement and harms the innocent. The Catechism names sin plainly as an offence against truth and love, wounding the person and injuring human solidarity (CCC 1849).

The psalm gives us the right response: not self-defence, but repentance — a heart turned back to God. The Catechism describes this as interior conversion, not mere outward performance: a real return of the heart (CCC 1430).

Then Jesus lifts our gaze. The Kingdom is not built by panic or control. Seed grows while the sower sleeps and wakes; the mustard seed becomes a home for others. God’s reign advances with patience and power — often hidden, always real. Jesus teaches the Kingdom through parables (CCC 546) — inviting not just hearing, but a change of life.

So today is not despair. It is clarity: sin must be confessed and turned from, and God’s Kingdom must be trusted — especially when growth looks slow. The call is simple and demanding: repent honestly, and keep sowing what is good.

A moment of pause
Where do you need to stop hiding — and return to God with a clean heart?

Thursday, January 29, 2026

29 January 2026 — Daily Mass Readings

Thursday of Week 3 in Ordinary Time

First Reading
2 Samuel 7:18–19, 24–29
After Nathan had spoken to King David, the king went in and sat before the Lord. He acknowledged his own unworthiness and marvelled that God would make such an enduring promise to him. God had established his people Israel and made himself their God. David then prayed that the word God had spoken concerning his house might be confirmed and fulfilled, entrusting to God’s faithfulness the future of his people.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 132(131):1–2,3–5,11–14
R. The Lord God will give him the throne of David, his father.
This psalm rejoices in God’s covenant fidelity. It calls to mind the oath God swore to David and the promise that his offspring would sit upon his throne. The Lord’s love for Zion and his choice of her as his resting place reflect God’s steadfast will to dwell among his people.

Gospel
Mark 4:21–25
Jesus said, “Is a lamp brought in to be placed under a basket or under a bed? … Take care what you hear; the measure with which you measure will in return be measured out to you.” Jesus teaches that what is given — light, truth, the Word of God — is meant to be revealed and bear fruit, not kept hidden.

Reflection
Today’s readings call us to reflect on God’s covenant fidelity and our receptivity to his Word.

In the First Reading, King David responds to God’s promise with humility, trust and prayer. God speaks a word of promise — not for David alone, but for all of God’s people — and David’s prayer becomes a model of confidence in divine faithfulness.

The Responsorial Psalm echoes this trust: God’s promise to David stands firm, and God’s dwelling among his people is a sign of his unshakable love. It invites us to trust not in our own strength or plans, but in the Lord’s sustaining word.

In the Gospel, Jesus uses the image of light and seed to help us see how God’s Word works in our lives. God’s Word is meant to be received, treasured and let loose to transform us and bear fruit in actions of love, mercy and witness.

Saint Thomas Aquinas teaches that the Word of God is a true light that enlightens every believer (cf. CCC #1086–1090). The lamp metaphor reminds us that the Word, like light, is not meant to be hidden; it clarifies, reveals and calls forth fruitfulness in the disciples who receive it with open hearts.

Catechism connections (CCC):
• God’s Word is a light to our path and reveals the truth of his covenant with his people. (CCC #1086, #1090)
• The covenant established with David finds its ultimate fulfilment in Christ. (CCC #2578–2582)
• The Word of God must be heard with openness, allowing it to bear fruit in faithful obedience. (CCC #101–105)

Taken together, these readings encourage us to allow God’s Word to shine in every corner of our life, trusting in God’s promises and living them out in love.

A moment of pause
Where is God’s Word calling you to bring light and fruit today?

Wednesday, January 28, 2026

28 January 2026 — Daily Mass Readings

Saint Thomas Aquinas, Priest, Doctor / Wednesday of Week 3 in Ordinary Time

First Reading
2 Samuel 7:4–17
God speaks to Nathan about David: “You shall not build a house for my dwelling; but I will raise up your offspring to succeed you.” God promises David an enduring dynasty, revealing that his reign will found a lasting kingdom.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 89(90):4–5, 27–28, 29–30
“We will sing for ever of your love, O Lord.” The psalm rejoices in God’s faithfulness and covenant, remembering God’s promise and steadfast mercy.

Gospel
Mark 4:1–20
Jesus teaches the crowds from a boat, telling the parable of the sower. Some seeds fall on wayside, rocky or thorny ground, but the seed sown on rich soil bears abundant fruit — illustrating receptivity to God’s Word.

Reflection
In today’s Mass readings we encounter a profound promise and its fulfilment in the Word of God. In the First Reading, God speaks to David through the prophet Nathan, establishing an everlasting covenant: a dynasty that will endure in God’s gracious purpose. This promise of a stable reign rooted in divine fidelity foreshadows the coming of Christ, the fulfilment of God’s saving plan.

The Responsorial Psalm celebrates God’s enduring love and steadfast covenant with the chosen one. “We will sing for ever of your love, O Lord,” reminds us that God’s mercy and faithfulness transcend human frailty and time. Our praise arises from confidence in God’s unwavering presence and promise.

In the Gospel, Jesus uses the imagery of sowing to reveal how the Word of God is received. The seed — God’s Word — meets varied soil: hard, shallow, choked by cares, or ready to bear fruit. Jesus challenges us to be that rich soil. Saint Thomas Aquinas, whose memorial the Church honours today, devoted his life to deepening his understanding of that Word and helping the faithful receive it more fully.

Our task is to prepare the soil of our hearts so that the Word of God may take root, flourish, and yield fruit in service, love and faithful obedience. Today is an invitation to examine what prevents the Word from flourishing within us — whether hardness, distraction, fear, or divided loyalty — and to open ourselves more fully to the transforming power of Christ’s teaching.

A moment of pause
Where is God’s Word being sown in your life, and what room does your heart make for it to grow and bear fruit?

Tuesday, January 27, 2026

27 January 2026 — Daily Mass Readings

Tuesday of Week 3 in Ordinary Time

First Reading
2 Samuel 6:12–15, 17–19
David brings the ark of God from the house of Obed-edom to the Citadel of David with great rejoicing. When the bearers had gone six paces, David offered sacrifices and then danced before the Lord with all his might, clothed only in a linen ephod. After placing the ark in the tent he had prepared, David blessed the people and distributed food among all Israel.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 23(24):7–10
“Lift up your heads, O gates; be lifted, you ancient doors; that the King of glory may come in.” The psalm calls all creation to welcome the Lord of hosts whose presence fills the earth with holiness.

Gospel
Mark 3:31–35
While Jesus was speaking to the crowd, his mother and brothers stood outside and sent word to him. Someone told Jesus that his family was outside seeking him. Jesus replied, “Who are my mother and my brothers?” Looking at those seated around him, he said, “Here are my mother and my brothers. Whoever does the will of God is my brother and sister and mother.”

Reflection
Today’s readings invite us into joyful worship and a deeper understanding of what it means to be family in Christ. David’s exuberant dance before the ark expresses an unrestrained joy in God’s presence, reminding us that the Lord deserves praise with all our heart and strength.

The psalmist’s call to open wide the gates to the King of glory echoes our own call to welcome God into every part of our lives. As David welcomed the ark into Jerusalem, we too are invited to welcome Christ into the centre of our hearts.

In the Gospel, Christ expands the notion of family beyond biological ties to include all who do the will of God. True discipleship, then, is not measured by heritage but by a life shaped by obedience to God and love for others.

Taken together, these readings encourage us to rejoice in God’s presence, open our lives to his reign, and commit ourselves to doing his will as members of Christ’s family.

A moment of pause
Where are you called today to welcome the Lord with joy and to live more fully according to God’s will?

Monday, January 26, 2026

26 January 2026 — Daily Mass Readings

Saints Timothy and Titus, Bishops / Monday of Week 3 in Ordinary Time

First Reading
2 Timothy 1:1–8
Paul, called by God to be an apostle of Christ Jesus, writes to Timothy, encouraging him to recall his sincere faith — passed down through family — and to fan into a flame the gift God gave him. He reminds Timothy that God’s gift is not a spirit of timidity, but of power, love and self-control, and urges him not to be ashamed of witnessing to the Lord.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 95(96):1-3,7-8,10
Sing to the Lord a new song; his salvation is near.
The psalm calls all the earth to proclaim God’s glory, to worship and bow down before the Lord, and to recognise his saving power.

Gospel
Mark 3:22–30
The scribes from Jerusalem say Jesus is possessed by Beelzebul. Jesus responds with a parable: a kingdom divided against itself cannot stand, and he explains that Jesus is doing his work by the Spirit of God — and warns about blasphemy against the Spirit.

Reflection

Today’s readings draw our attention to two complementary aspects of discipleship: courage and clarity of mission.

Paul’s letter to Timothy is a call to inner boldness grounded in God’s gift. Paul reminds him — and us — that the Christian life is not sustained by human strength alone, but by the Spirit of power, love and self-control. To fan that gift into flame means choosing to let God’s life burn brightly in our relationships, choices and witness.

In the Gospel, Jesus faces opposition and misinterpretation. Some attribute his work to evil, but Jesus refocuses the charge: a divided kingdom cannot stand. His ministry — teaching, healing, reconciling — flows from God’s unifying purpose. There is no contradiction in his work; it coheres around God’s life-giving action.

These readings invite us to examine where we may have grown timid or divided, and to re-orient toward the courage and unity that Christ’s mission calls us into. To let God’s gift burn brightly is to let love lead, clarity sustain and unity shape our witness in the world.

A moment of pause
Where in your life do you need to let the gift of God burn more brightly — with courage, love, and unity?

Sunday, January 25, 2026

25 January 2026 — Daily Mass Readings

Third Sunday in Ordinary Time (Sunday of the Word of God)

First Reading
Isaiah 8:23–9:3
The prophet declares that though the people once dwelt in deep shadow, a great light now shines upon them. God increases their joy, breaks the yoke that weighed them down, and brings a time of gladness and liberation.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 26(27):1, 4, 13–14
The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?
The psalmist expresses trust and confidence in the Lord, seeking to dwell in God’s presence and proclaim his goodness.

Second Reading
1 Corinthians 1:10–13, 17
Paul appeals for unity in the Church at Corinth, urging believers to abandon divisions and see that the Gospel transcends personal loyalties.

Gospel
Matthew 4:12–23
Jesus, hearing that John the Baptist had been arrested, withdraws to Galilee. There he begins his ministry, calling Simon Peter, Andrew, James, and John to follow him. Proclaiming that the kingdom of heaven is near, he teaches, heals, and calls others into discipleship.

Reflection

Today’s liturgy draws us into a movement from darkness into light, from division into unity, and from call to mission.

Isaiah’s proclamation of a dawning light invites us to recognise God’s saving action at work in our world and in our hearts. What was once shadowed by despair is now illuminated by hope. In Paul’s appeal for unity, we are reminded that the Gospel is most powerful not when fragmented, but when embodied together in community. We are called to “make up the differences” and stand together as witnesses to Christ’s love and truth.

Third Sunday in Ordinary Time (Sunday of the Word of God)

Second Reading
1 Corinthians 1:10–13, 17
Paul appeals for unity in the Church at Corinth, urging believers to abandon divisions and see that the Gospel transcends personal loyalties.

Reflection

Today’s liturgy draws us into a movement from darkness into light, from division into unity, and from call to mission.

In the Gospel, the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry is marked by invitation and immediacy. Peter, Andrew, James, and John respond without hesitation — leaving behind their nets and stepping into a new purpose. Their example invites us to consider where we too are being called: to follow Christ with trust, participate in the life of his kingdom, and share that light with others.

As we reflect on these readings, we are invited to let Christ’s light transform us, to seek unity with our brothers and sisters in faith, and to respond generously to the mission entrusted to all disciples.

A moment of pause
Where is Christ’s light calling you today — toward unity, purpose, or deeper trust?

Saturday, January 24, 2026

24 January 2026 — Daily Mass Readings

Memorial of Saint Francis de Sales, Bishop and Doctor of the Church

First Reading
2 Samuel 1:1–4, 11–12, 19, 23–27
David learns of Saul and Jonathan’s death and responds with lament. He tears his clothes, weeps, fasts, and speaks honourably of the fallen—grieving what has been lost without turning it into triumph.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 80:2–3, 5–7
Let your face shine on us, O Lord, and we shall be saved.

Gospel
Mark 3:20–21
Jesus returns home, but the crowd gathers again and he cannot even eat. Hearing this, his relatives set out to take charge of him, saying, “He is out of his mind.”

Reflection

Today’s readings bring us into the real world of discipleship: where emotions are complex, and where even good intentions can be misread.

In the First Reading, David models a grief that remains human and holy. He mourns Saul and Jonathan with sincerity. What is striking is David’s restraint: he does not seize the moment to validate himself or rewrite the story in his favour. He laments—honouring relationship, honouring loss, and refusing to let pain become poison. This is grief with integrity.

In the Gospel, Jesus is surrounded by pressure and scrutiny, and his own relatives interpret his life as something unbalanced. He is not only tired; he is misunderstood in the place where he should be safest. Yet Jesus does not retreat into resentment or self-justification. He continues, steady in mission, allowing time and truth to speak.

These readings quietly teach that holiness is often expressed as steadiness:

steadiness that refuses bitterness in grief, and
steadiness that refuses distortion when others misunderstand.

Faithfulness is not always loud. Sometimes it is simply continuing to do what is right, with a clean heart, even when the moment is painful.

A moment of pause
Where are you tempted today to become bitter or defensive—and what would it look like to remain steady in love instead?

Friday, January 23, 2026

23 January 2026 — Daily Mass Readings

Friday, Second Week in Ordinary Time

First Reading
1 Samuel 24:3–21
Saul takes three thousand men to search for David and his followers. When Saul enters a cave to relieve himself, David and his men are hiding deeper inside. David’s men urge him to take his chance, but he cuts only a corner of Saul’s robe. Later, confronting Saul, David shows the piece of robe and reproaches him for pursuing him despite his innocence. Saul recognises David’s mercy and acknowledges that David will one day be king.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 57:2, 3-4, 6, 11
Have mercy on me, O God; in you my soul takes refuge.
The psalm is a cry for God’s mercy and protection amid trials and threats.

Gospel
Mark 3:13–19
Jesus goes up a mountainside and calls those whom he desired. He names the Twelve who will be with him and sent out to preach, to have authority to cast out demons, and to heal in his name: Peter (whom he names Simon), James, John, Andrew, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Cananaean, and Judas Iscariot.

Reflection

Today’s readings present two models of how God’s people respond to conflict and call: with mercy and with mission.

In the First Reading, David has the chance to destroy his greatest enemy, yet he refrains. His mercy is not naive but rooted in faithfulness to God’s anointing and purposes. Rather than impose his own justice, David honours God’s timing. His act calls attention to how mercy breaks cycles of violence and opens the way for reconciliation.

In the Gospel, Jesus calls the Twelve — not as a demonstration of earthly power, but as an invitation to participate in his work of mercy and healing. Jesus’ authority is not about domination but service. The Twelve will be companions with him, learning from his presence, and then sent out to continue his mission of compassion.

These readings together remind us that God’s leadership is expressed not through coercion but through mercy and service. Our hearts and behaviours are transformed not by force, but by the patient work of Christ’s Spirit within us. When we choose mercy over retaliation, and when we answer Christ’s call to serve, we participate in God’s healing presence in the world.

A moment of pause
Where in your life today is God calling you to choose mercy first — even when it is costly — and how might that choice shape your witness?

Thursday, January 22, 2026

22 January 2026 — Daily Mass Readings

Thursday, Second Week in Ordinary Time

First Reading
1 Samuel 18:6–9; 19:1–7
When the women of Israel sang that David had slain tens of thousands while Saul had slain only thousands, Saul became jealous and resentful. Fear drove him to plot against David. Jonathan, Saul’s son, however, spoke well of David and convinced his father not to harm him.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 56:2–3, 9–10a, 10b–12, 13–14
In God I trust; I will not be afraid.
The psalm expresses trust in God amid fear and distress, a fitting response to the insecurity seen in the First Reading.

Gospel
Mark 3:7–12
Jesus withdrew with his disciples down to the sea as great crowds followed from many places. Unclean spirits recognised him and called out, “You are the Son of God.” But Jesus did not allow them to speak because they knew him.

Reflection

Today’s readings invite us to see how fear and faith shape our response to God’s presence.

In the First Reading, Saul’s jealousy distorts his heart, turning admiration into insecurity and threat. Fear can turn what should be celebration into suspicion. In contrast, Jonathan shows that faithful advocacy rooted in loyalty and trust can protect and uphold life.

In the Gospel, the crowds press in, and even unclean spirits recognise Jesus’ identity. Yet Jesus does not let their recognition shape the timing of his mission. He moves with intention, maintaining his focus on mercy and obedience to the Father’s plan. His withdrawal is not rejection, but discernment.

Where fear leads to control and division, mercy opens space for healing and relationship. Today’s readings remind us that trust in God steadies us — whether in the face of human insecurity or overwhelming pressure — and that mercy shapes our witness more than fear ever can.

A moment of pause
Where might fear be influencing your view of others or of God today — and how might mercy reframe your response?

Wednesday, January 21, 2026

21 January 2026 — Daily Mass Readings

Saint Agnes, Virgin and Martyr — Memorial

First Reading
1 Samuel 17:32–33, 37, 40–51
David said to Saul, “Let no one lose heart on his account; your servant will go and fight the Philistine.” Saul protested his youth and inexperience, but David replied that the Lord who saved him from the lion and the bear would save him from Goliath. With a sling and a stone, David struck the Philistine and killed him, showing that trust in God can overcome what seems impossible.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 143:1–2, 9–10
O Lord, hear my prayer, listen to my plea.
The psalm expresses a deep longing for God’s presence and guidance in times of distress.

Gospel
Mark 3:1–6
On a sabbath, Jesus saw a man with a withered hand in the synagogue. The Pharisees watched to see if he would heal on the sabbath so they could accuse him. Jesus said to the man, “Stand up in front of everyone.” Then he said to his critics, “Is it lawful to do good or to do evil on the sabbath?” They were silent, and Jesus, grieved at their hardness of heart, healed the man’s hand.

Reflection

Today’s readings invite us into two profound movements of faith: trust in God’s deliverance and compassion over rigidity.

In the First Reading, David’s confidence arises not from bravado but from a lived history of God’s fidelity. He steps into danger with the memory of past help, trusting God to act again. His faith offers a model for us: when fear looms large, a memory of God’s care can become the foundation of courage.

In the Gospel, Jesus faces resistance not from giants but from a hardened mind-set. The man with the withered hand represents real human need. Jesus does not wait for permission; he meets that need with compassion. His question to the onlookers — “Is it lawful to do good or to do evil?” — exposes a heart closed to mercy. Jesus teaches that the law is meant to serve life, not fence it in.

These readings call us to a faith that is both courageous and compassionate. Trust in God’s power to deliver and a willingness to choose mercy over judgement reshape not only our actions but our hearts.

A moment of pause
Where in your life today might God be inviting you to trust him more deeply — and to choose mercy over judgment?

Tuesday, January 20, 2026

20 January 2026 — Daily Mass Readings

Tuesday, Second Week in Ordinary Time

First Reading
1 Samuel 16:1–13
The Lord said to Samuel: “Fill your horn with oil and go; I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem.” When Samuel saw Eliab, he thought he must be God’s anointed, but the Lord said, “Do not judge by appearance; the Lord sees the heart.”Seven of Jesse’s sons were presented, but none were chosen until the youngest, David, tending the sheep, was summoned and anointed.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 89:20–22, 27–28
I have found David my servant.
The psalm proclaims God’s faithful choice and strength given to David, highlighting divine care grounded in covenant love.

Gospel
Mark 2:23–28
As Jesus and his disciples walked through grainfields on the Sabbath, the disciples plucked ears of corn. The Pharisees objected; Jesus replied that the Sabbath was made for people, not people for the Sabbath. He concludes, “So the Son of Man is lord even of the Sabbath.”

Reflection

Today’s readings speak to how God discerns value and how Christ reorients human expectations.

In the First Reading, God repeatedly redirects Samuel’s attention from surface qualities to the deeper calling within a person’s heart. The anointing of David — chosen not for stature or appearance, but for his interior disposition — reminds us that God’s wisdom discerns far beneath outward measures of success or worth.

In the Gospel, Jesus reframes the purpose of the Sabbath. Rather than a rigid set of rules, the Sabbath — like all sacred practice — is intended to support human flourishing in God’s presence. Jesus’ teaching invites disciples to see law not as constraint, but as servant to love and mercy.

Taken together, these readings call us to root our lives not in appearances, tradition-for-its-own-sake, or rigid compliance, but in hearts attuned to the living God. God looks deeply; Jesus shows the way forward into a life shaped by mercy, genuine freedom, and care for others.

A moment of pause
Where might God be inviting you today to see beyond surface — and to open your heart to his correction and mercy?

Monday, January 19, 2026

19 January 2026 — Daily Mass Readings

Monday, Second Week in Ordinary Time

First Reading
1 Samuel 15:16–23
Samuel said to Saul, “Stop! Let me tell you what the Lord said to me last night.” Samuel reminded Saul of his anointing and mission. God commanded the destruction of the Amalekites, yet Saul spared the best of the spoil, offering it in sacrifice. Samuel declared, “To obey is better than sacrifice… rebellion is like the sin of divination.”

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 50:8–9, 16bc–17, 21, 23
To the upright I will show the saving power of God.
The psalmist proclaims that God desires not empty ritual, but a heart that responds with integrity and obedience.

Gospel
Mark 2:18–22
People asked Jesus why his disciples did not fast like John’s disciples and the Pharisees. Jesus replied that the wedding guests cannot fast while the bridegroom is with them. He then spoke of the incompatibility of putting new wine into old wineskins, emphasising the fresh life his presence brings.

Reflection

Today’s readings challenge us to reflect on what it means to listen and respond to God with sincerity.

In the First Reading, Saul’s failure is not simply a lapse in ritual; it is a heart that has drifted from God’s instruction. Rebellion and stubbornness do not honour God even if external actions appear devout. The ancient prophets continually remind us that obedience rooted in trust matters more than ritual correctness.

In the Gospel, Jesus points to a new reality his coming inaugurates. The image of new wine and fresh wineskins presents a dynamic invitation: Christ’s life is not meant to be squeezed into old patterns that resist change, but to expand and renew our hearts.

Taken together, these readings invite us beyond performance, toward a faith that listens and adapts — a faith that embraces the new life Christ offers, not as a burden, but as freedom. Our discipleship grows when the heart of obedience meets the heart of Christ’s invitation. We are invited to let go of what binds us and to receive the new wine of his Spirit.

A moment of pause
Where in your life might God be inviting you to let go of old patterns and trust him with a new way forward?

Sunday, January 18, 2026

18 January 2026 — Daily Mass Readings

Second Sunday in Ordinary Time

First Reading
Isaiah 49:3, 5–6
The Lord speaks to his servant, calling him not only to restore Israel but to be a light to the nations, so that salvation may reach to the ends of the earth.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 40:2, 4, 7–8, 8–9, 10
Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will.
The psalm expresses readiness, trust, and a willingness to respond to God’s call.

Second Reading
1 Corinthians 1:1–3
Paul greets the Church in Corinth, reminding them that they are sanctified in Christ Jesus and called to be holy, receiving grace and peace from God.

Gospel
John 1:29–34
John the Baptist sees Jesus coming toward him and declares him to be the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. He bears witness to the Spirit descending and remaining on Jesus, confirming him as the Son of God.

Reflection

Today’s readings invite us to reflect on recognition before action.

In Isaiah, the servant is chosen for a mission that reaches beyond borders and expectations. God’s vision is expansive: light is meant to travel, not to be contained. This reading prepares us to see salvation not as something possessed, but something shared.

In the Gospel, John the Baptist shows us what faithful recognition looks like. He does not cling to influence or status. Instead, he points clearly to Christ and steps back. By naming Jesus as the Lamb of God, John reveals the heart of Christ’s mission — mercy that meets sin, and love that restores what is broken.

Our own calling follows this same pattern. Before we speak or act, we are invited to recognise who Christ is and what he is doing. When we do, our lives naturally become quieter witnesses — not drawing attention to ourselves, but reflecting the light we have received.

A moment of pause
Where in your life are you being invited to recognise Christ more clearly — and how might that recognition shape the way you live today?

Saturday, January 17, 2026

17 January 2026 — Daily Mass Readings

Saint Anthony, Abbot — Memorial

First Reading
1 Samuel 9:1–4, 17–19; 10:1
Among the men of Benjamin was a man named Kish; his son Saul was tall and handsome. When the family’s donkeys were lost, Saul set out to look for them. The search led him to Samuel. The Lord told Samuel: “There — that is the man I spoke to you about.” Samuel anointed Saul, placing him over God’s people.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 21:2–3, 4–5, 6–7
Lord, in your strength the king is glad.
The psalm reflects joy in God’s strength and blessing, celebrating trust in divine care and favour.

Gospel
Mark 2:13–17
Jesus went out by the sea; crowds gathered and he taught them. Passing by, he saw Levi at the tax post and said, “Follow me.” Levi rose and followed him. Later, Jesus ate with tax collectors and sinners, prompting criticism. Jesus said, “Those who are well do not need a physician, but the sick; I came not to call the righteous, but sinners.”

Reflection

Today’s readings invite us to consider the nature of God’s call and Christ’s mercy.

God chooses Saul from among ordinary beginnings — a young man looking for lost donkeys — and anoints him for leadership. God sees beyond surface appearances and casts his call into the ordinary textures of life. Saul does not seek the role; God gifts it. God’s call often surprises us, emerging where we least expect it.

In the Gospel, Jesus calls Levi — a tax collector excluded by society — simply and directly. Levi’s response is immediate: he rises and follows. Jesus does not hesitate to share community with those labelled sinners and outcasts. His mission is not to withhold presence from brokenness but to meet it with compassion. Jesus’ words make the purpose clear: he came not to call the self-satisfied, but those aware of their need for mercy.

In both readings, we see that God’s call and Christ’s mercy intersect in the everyday and the imperfect. God’s invitation is not limited to those who feel worthy; it reaches where we are — inviting us deeper into life transformed by grace.

A moment of pause
Where in your life today do you feel God’s invitation to follow — and what mercy of Christ do you need to receive before you can answer that call?

Friday, January 16, 2026

16 January 2026 — Daily Mass Readings

Friday, Week 1 in Ordinary Time

First Reading
1 Samuel 8:4–7, 10–22
Israel’s elders come to Samuel and say, “We want a king to judge us like other nations.” Samuel is displeased, and God explains: they are not rejecting Samuel, they are rejecting God as their king. God warns that a human king will take their sons for war, their daughters for service, a tenth of their produce, and their freedom. Yet the people refuse to listen and insist on having a king.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 89:16–19
For ever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.
The psalm acknowledges God’s steadfast goodness, strength, and protection — a contrast to the fragile security sought in human leadership.

Gospel
Mark 2:1–12
Jesus returns to Capernaum and a crowd gathers so tightly that four men carrying a paralytic cannot reach him. Determined, they break through the roof and lower the man before Jesus. Seeing their faith, Jesus first says, “Your sins are forgiven,” and then, to prove his authority, commands the man to stand, take his mat, and go home — and he does so immediately.

Reflection

Today’s readings place before us a choice between power that dominates and authority that heals.

The elders of Israel seek a human king so they can be “like other nations.” Their request reflects a deep human desire for visible symbols of security and power. Yet God’s response shows that human structures can become chains rather than freedom. When power is sought apart from God, it ends up taking from those it was meant to protect.

In contrast, the paralytic and his companions do not seek status or control. They persist in faith, overcoming barriers with creativity and love. Jesus’ response is profound: he first forgives the man’s sins — addressing the deeper brokenness of the human heart — and then restores his body. Jesus’ authority is not about domination; it is about restoration and reconciliation.

This Gospel invites us to consider where we look for authority and security. Do we trust in human systems and comparisons? Or do we turn to Christ, whose authority brings healing and wholeness? God’s mercy does not bypass reality; it meets our needs and restores life where it was broken.

A moment of pause
Where in your life are you tempted to rely on human power, and where might you instead choose Christ’s restoring mercy?