Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Also Read: Mass Readings for 01 February 2026
First Reading: Zephaniah 2: 3; Zephaniah 3: 12-13
In the First Reading, the prophet Zephaniah calls the people to seek the Lord with humility and righteousness. God invites the meek of the earth to turn to Him, to live justly, and to trust in His mercy, especially in times of trial and judgment.
The Lord promises to preserve a remnant that is poor and lowly, a people who place their hope not in power or deceit, but in the name of the Lord. This humble remnant lives without fear, walking in truth and integrity, resting securely in God’s care. Through them, God reveals that true strength is found in humility and trust in Him.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 146: 6-10
The Psalm proclaims the faithfulness and compassion of the Lord, who upholds truth forever and brings justice to those who are oppressed. God cares tenderly for the hungry, the imprisoned, the blind, and those who are bowed down.
The refrain, “Blessed are the poor in spirit; the kingdom of heaven is theirs,” echoes the heart of today’s message. God reigns forever, defending the vulnerable and lifting up the lowly, revealing His kingdom as one built on mercy, justice, and love.
Second Reading: First Corinthians 1: 26-31
Saint Paul reminds us that God’s ways are not the ways of the world. Not many are chosen because of human wisdom, strength, or status. Instead, God chooses what appears weak and foolish, so that no one may boast before Him.
In Christ Jesus, God becomes our wisdom, justice, sanctification, and redemption. Our only true glory is found in the Lord. This teaching calls us to humility and gratitude, recognizing that everything we have is a gift from God.
Gospel: Matthew 5: 1-12a
In the Gospel, Jesus ascends the mountain and proclaims the Beatitudes, revealing the heart of the Kingdom of Heaven. He declares blessed the poor in spirit, the meek, the merciful, the clean of heart, and those who hunger for justice.
These words overturn worldly values and reveal God’s vision of holiness. True happiness is found not in power or wealth, but in humility, mercy, purity of heart, and faithfulness, even in the midst of suffering and persecution for the sake of righteousness.
As we reflect on today’s readings, we are invited to shape our lives according to the Beatitudes. May we seek the Lord with humble hearts, place our trust in Him alone, and live as citizens of His Kingdom, rejoicing in the promise that our reward is great in heaven. Amen. Alleluia!
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