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)
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.
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?
No comments:
Post a Comment