Twenty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time
Also Read: Mass Readings for 03 September 2023 Homily for 03 September 2023 – Sunday
First Reading: Jeremiah 20: 7-9
9 If I say, “I will not mention him, or speak any more in his name,” then within me there is something like a burning fire shut up in my bones; I am weary with holding it in, and I cannot.
In a world that is rapidly communicating and not necessarily about facts; we may find ourselves in a lonely position when we voice the truth. Nevertheless, we must stand our ground. Being disciples of Christ, we must always stand for him and the values he has entrusted us with.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 63: 2-6, 8-9
3 Because your steadfast love is better than life, my lips will praise you. 4 So I will bless you as long as I live; I will lift up my hands and call on your name.
Amen!
Second Reading: Romans 12: 1-2
2 Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your minds, so that you may discern what is the will of God—what is good and acceptable and perfect.
We may live here on the earth but we are not to be of this world. It is a challenging time for us right now but we must persevere in our path. Through Jesus, we have the victory.
Amen!
Gospel: Matthew 16: 21-27
26 For what will it profit them if they gain the whole world but forfeit their life? Or what will they give in return for their life?
Christ tells us that living as a disciple is not an easy task. We are to live in vigilant preparedness as we wage an ongoing battle in our minds, hearts, souls, and spirit. There is an expected opposition to our way of functioning but we are not to lose heart. We can be encouraged through the Holy Eucharist, the Word of God, and prayer.
In Jesus’ name, Amen!
