Third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Also Read: Mass Readings for 25 January 2026
First Reading: Isaiah 8: 23 – 9: 3
In the First Reading, the prophet Isaiah proclaims a message of hope to a people living in darkness. The regions of Zabulon and Nephthali, once humbled and afflicted, are promised a new beginning. Upon those who walked in darkness, a great light has shone, and joy is restored like the joy of harvest and victory.
This light is God’s saving presence, breaking the yoke of oppression and freeing His people from fear and bondage. The prophecy points forward to the coming of Christ, through whom God brings true liberation and joy to all who live in the shadow of sin and suffering.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 27: 1, 4, 13-14
The Psalm proclaims with confidence: “The Lord is my light and my salvation.” In the presence of the Lord, fear has no place, for He is the protector and strength of His people.
The psalmist longs to dwell in the house of the Lord, to gaze upon His beauty and to trust patiently in His goodness. This prayer teaches us to wait courageously for the Lord, confident that we shall see His goodness in the land of the living.
Second Reading: First Corinthians 1: 10-13, 17
Saint Paul urgently calls the Church to unity. He appeals to the believers to be of one mind and one heart, warning against divisions and rivalries within the community.
Christ cannot be divided, for it is He alone who was crucified for our salvation. Paul reminds us that the heart of our faith is not human wisdom or personalities, but the cross of Christ, through which God’s power and mercy are revealed.
Gospel: Matthew 4: 12-23 or Matthew 4: 12-17
In the Gospel, Jesus begins His public ministry in Galilee, fulfilling the prophecy of Isaiah. He brings light to those living in darkness and proclaims the urgent call: “Do penance, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”
Jesus calls ordinary fishermen to follow Him, and they respond immediately, leaving behind their nets and their former way of life. He invites them to become fishers of men, sharing in His mission of bringing the Good News to all.
As Jesus travels through Galilee, He teaches, proclaims the Gospel of the kingdom, and heals every sickness and infirmity, revealing God’s compassion and saving power at work among the people.
As we reflect on today’s readings, we are invited to step out of darkness and walk in the light of Christ. Let us respond generously to His call, turn our hearts toward God in repentance, and follow Jesus with faith and unity, becoming witnesses of His light in the world. Amen. Alleluia!
Leave a Reply