Podcasts about ninth week

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Latest podcast episodes about ninth week

St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology
Saturday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time - Dr. John Bergsma

St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2026 13:28


The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Saturday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. John Bergsma. Ordinary Weekday/ Optional Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary/ Norbert, Bishop, Religious Founder First Reading: Second Timothy 4: 1-8 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 71: 8-9, 14-15ab, 16-17, 22 Alleluia: Matthew 5: 3 Gospel: Mark 12: 38-44   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at www.stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Daily Rosary
June 6, 2026, Holy Rosary (Joyful Mysteries)

Daily Rosary

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2026 30:36


Friends of the Rosary,Today, the Feast day of St. Norbert, Bishop, Saturday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time, and the eve of the Solemnity of the Corpus Christi, we see in the Gospel (Mark 12:38-44), the contrast between the religious show and the hidden, total self-gift of the poor widow who gives everything by love.“Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in morethan all the other contributors to the treasury.For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth,but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had,her whole livelihood.”St. Ambrose said, "No one gives more than she who has left nothing for herself."St. John Chrysostom, "Almsgiving is that of the Widow who emptied out all her living."St. Bede, "God does not weigh the property but the conscience of those who offer."Ave Maria!Come, Holy Spirit, come!To Jesus through Mary!Here I am, Lord; I come to do your will.Please give us the grace to respond with joy!+ Mikel Amigot w/ María Blanca | RosaryNetwork.com, New YorkEnhance your faith with the new Holy Rosary University app:Apple iOS | New! Android Google Play• June 6, 2026, Today's Rosary on YouTube | Daily broadcast at 7:30 pm ET

Father Daniel's Homilies
Saturday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time

Father Daniel's Homilies

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2026 15:00


The Good Word
Saturday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time: June 6 (Fr. John Olenick, C.Ss.R.)

The Good Word

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2026 3:21


The Catholic Word Podcast
Saturday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time

The Catholic Word Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2026 34:44


ROSARY - JOYFUL MYSTERIES today.  DIVINE MERCY CHAPLET for Saturday.

Letters From Home
Saturday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time - Dr. John Bergsma

Letters From Home

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2026 13:28


The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Saturday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. John Bergsma. Ordinary Weekday/ Optional Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary/ Norbert, Bishop, Religious Founder First Reading: Second Timothy 4: 1-8 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 71: 8-9, 14-15ab, 16-17, 22 Alleluia: Matthew 5: 3 Gospel: Mark 12: 38-44   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at www.stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Daily Reflections with Fr. John
Saturday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time

Daily Reflections with Fr. John

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 6, 2026 3:38


God does not measure gifts the way the world does.

St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology
Friday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time - Dr. John Bergsma

St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 5:50


The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Friday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. John Bergsma. Boniface, Bishop, Martyr Obligatory Memorial First Reading: Second Timothy 3: 10-17 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 119: 157, 160, 161, 165, 166, 168 Alleluia: John 14: 23 Gospel: Mark 12: 35-37   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at www.stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Catholic Daily Reflections
Saturday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time - Radical Generosity

Catholic Daily Reflections

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 7:39


Read Online“Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the other contributors to the treasury. For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had, her whole livelihood.” Mark 12:43–44How generous are you? This is a challenging question, yet one worth considering. Does your generosity reflect God's boundless generosity? Do you struggle with selfishness and greed, failing to live out the Gospel call to poverty, detachment, and charity? Most people likely fall short of this ideal. Acknowledging this, though difficult, is an act of honesty and humility. Such humility disposes us to receive an outpouring of heavenly riches, which far surpass any earthly possessions or attachments we may cling to or desire.In today's Gospel, set just days before His Passion, Jesus warns the people about the scribes. In a previous discourse, He had highlighted their limited understanding of His divine identity and their overly legalistic approach to Scripture. Today, He condemns them for their excessive attachment to external displays of piety—such as “long robes” and public honors—as well as their greed, neglect of the poor, and hypocritical religiosity. He concludes His warning with a sobering statement: “They will receive a very severe condemnation” (cf. Mark 12:38–40).The scribes likely thought highly of themselves and sought to outdo one another in outward show. They fasted, meticulously followed the Law as they interpreted it, recited lengthy prayers in public, and cultivated a religious culture that held them in high esteem. Yet Jesus' harsh condemnation of them was spoken out of love. They, more than anyone in the Temple area, needed to hear His words and repent. Perhaps some were convicted by His rebuke, but for most, His words only hardened their hearts—ultimately leading to their plot to crucify Him.That same day, Jesus taught the people—and the scribes who were listening—that the Law's fulfillment is found in love, not in multiplying empty displays of piety. When asked by a scribe which commandment in the Law was the greatest, He proclaimed: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength…. You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:30–31).In today's discourse, Jesus provided the people and the scribes who were listening with a concrete, visual example of His teaching. He pointed to a poor widow who placed two small coins in the Temple treasury, declaring that she had “put in more” than all the others. The coins she gave were called lepta (sometimes referred to as “mites”), the smallest denomination in circulation at the time. A single lepton was worth approximately 1/128 of a denarius, the standard daily wage for a laborer. In modern terms, if a daily wage were $170 USD, her two coins would amount to roughly $2.66—a seemingly insignificant sum, yet one of immense spiritual value in God's eyes.When God looks at your generosity, He looks into your heart and judges according to what He sees. He is not impressed by wealth or poverty, nor does He measure generosity by the size of a gift. Rather, He looks at your willingness to put love into action—loving “with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.” This love is first directed to God and then expressed through an unwavering love of neighbor. How much should we give to God and others? Like the poor widow, we must give our “whole livelihood,” meaning the totality of who you are and what you can do. That is what Jesus praised, and it is what He expects of us.Reflect today on the radical generosity to which we are all called. As finite beings, we cannot meet every need in the world—but that is not our duty. Our duty is to offer all that we are and have to God in service of His will. Though such generosity may feel difficult, the pain we experience does not come from giving but from the remnants of selfishness resisting detachment. Pray for the grace to be so generous that it purges all selfishness from your heart, soul, mind, and strength. When that happens, God will see your goodness and bless you abundantly.Most generous Lord, You have given me everything and invite me to offer all in return, out of love for You and my neighbor. Fill my heart with the grace of radical generosity, that I may give my time, energy, and resources without hesitation, offering my whole self in Your service. Help me to see the wisdom in such self-giving, trusting that Your goodness is never outdone in generosity. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: The widow's mite By João Zeferino da CostaSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Today's Catholic Mass Readings
Today's Catholic Mass Readings Saturday, June 06, 2026

Today's Catholic Mass Readings

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 Transcription Available


Full Text of Readings Saturday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 358 The Saint of the day is Saint Norbert Saint Norbert's Story In the 12th century in the French region of Premontre, Saint Norbert founded a religious Order known as the Praemonstratensians or the Norbertines. His founding of the Order was a monumental tasks: combating rampant heresies—particularly regarding the Blessed Sacrament, revitalizing many of the faithful who had grown indifferent and dissolute, plus effecting peace and reconciliation among enemies. Saint Norbert entertained no pretensions about his own ability to accomplish this multiple task. Even with the aid of a goodly number of men who joined his Order, he realized that nothing could be effectively done without God's power. Finding this help especially in devotion to the Blessed Sacrament, he and his Norbertines praised God for success in converting heretics, reconciling numerous enemies, and rebuilding faith in indifferent believers. Many of them lived in central houses during the week and served in parishes on weekends. Reluctantly, Saint Norbert became archbishop of Magdeburg in central Germany, a territory half pagan and half Christian. In this position he zealously and courageously continued his work for the Church until his death on June 6, 1134. Reflection A different world cannot be built by indifferent people. The same is true in regard to the Church. The indifference of vast numbers of nominal faithful to ecclesiastical authority and essential doctrines of the faith weakens the Church's witness. Unswerving loyalty to the Church and fervent devotion to the Eucharist, as practiced by Saint Norbert, will continue immeasurably toward maintaining the people of God in accord with the heart of Christ.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Rooted in the Really Real
Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time- Fr. Steve Homily

Rooted in the Really Real

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 5:06


Listen to Fr. Steve's homily from 6/4/26.Thanks for listening! Please leave us a rating and/or review, and share on social media or with a friend! You can email ashley@rootedinthereallyreal.com with any questions or suggestions. God bless.

god homily ninth week ordinary time fr
Rooted in the Really Real
Friday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time- Fr. Steve Homily

Rooted in the Really Real

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 6:17


Listen to Fr. Steve's homily from 6/5/26.Thanks for listening! Please leave us a rating and/or review, and share on social media or with a friend! You can email ashley@rootedinthereallyreal.com with any questions or suggestions. God bless.

god homily ninth week ordinary time fr
Daybreak
Daybreak for June 5, 2026

Daybreak

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 51:26


Friday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time Memorial of St. Boniface, 680-754; sent by Pope Gregory to consolidate the missions in Germany; he became a bishop, and later papal legate. at almost 80, he resigned his positions and retired to Frisia as a missionary, where he was martyred while reading a book Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 6/5/26 Gospel: Mark 12:35-37

Letters From Home
Friday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time - Dr. John Bergsma

Letters From Home

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 5:50


The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Friday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. John Bergsma. Boniface, Bishop, Martyr Obligatory Memorial First Reading: Second Timothy 3: 10-17 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 119: 157, 160, 161, 165, 166, 168 Alleluia: John 14: 23 Gospel: Mark 12: 35-37   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at www.stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Homilies by Fr. Len MacMillan
06-04-26 - Weekday Mass, Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time

Homilies by Fr. Len MacMillan

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 5, 2026 7:52


Homily from the Mass offered Thursday, June 4th - 1st Reading: 2 Timothy 2:8-15- Gospel Reading: Mark 12:28-34 - To support the podcast financially, click here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://stpiuscda.org/online-giving⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology
Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time - Ms. Joan Watson

St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 7:39


The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time by Ms. Joan Watson. Ordinary Weekday First Reading: Second Timothy 2: 8-15 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 25: 4-5ab, 8-9, 10 and 14 Alleluia: Second Timothy 1: 10 Gospel: Mark 12: 28-34   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at www.stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Catholic Daily Reflections
Friday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time - Understanding “with Delight”

Catholic Daily Reflections

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 6:54


Read OnlineAs Jesus was teaching in the temple area he said, “How do the scribes claim that the Christ is the son of David? David himself, inspired by the Holy Spirit, said: The Lord said to my lord, ‘Sit at my right hand until I place your enemies under your feet.' David himself calls him ‘lord'; so how is he his son?” The great crowd heard this with delight. Mark 12:35–37Today's Gospel presents us with one of Jesus' many teachings in the Temple area just days before His Passion. Just prior to this Gospel, Jesus praised one of the scribes for his understanding of Scripture, saying to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God” (Mark 12:34). He then turned His attention to a large crowd and revealed the limited understanding that many of the scribes and teachers of the Law had about the Messiah.Though the scribes rightly understood from Scripture that the Messiah would be born of King David's lineage, their understanding of the Messiah was incomplete. Many believed that, as David's descendant, the Messiah would be a great king who would lead the Jewish nation militarily and free them from Roman oppression. What they failed to understand was that the Messiah was not only a “Son of David” but also divine.Jesus quotes Psalm 110:1, one of the most frequently cited Old Testament passages in the New Testament: “The LORD says to my lord: ‘Sit at my right hand while I make your enemies your footstool.'” King David, who was inspired by the Holy Spirit, refers to the Messiah as his lord or master, expressing that the Messiah would not only be his descendant but also greater than David. Furthermore, David reveals that the LORD—the Father in Heaven—would exalt the Messiah to a position of divine authority.To “sit at my right hand” was a favor granted only to one who was divine; not even David could sit at God's right hand. To “make your enemies your footstool” was a reference to the ancient practice by which a victorious king would have his enemies lay prostrate before him, placing his foot upon them as a symbol of absolute dominion. However, Jesus' kingship is not merely earthly but spiritual and eternal. The true enemies placed under His feet are sin, death, and the demons (1 Corinthians 15:25–26, Colossians 2:15).Though we understand Jesus' identity as the Son of David, the Messiah, and God Himself, it is important to humbly recognize that, like the scribes, we, too, struggle to fully grasp the mysteries of faith. In Heaven, when we see God face to face in the Beatific Vision, we will receive a full and immediate understanding of Him in His essence, far greater than anything we can comprehend today. Though this full revelation will be given to us at that time, we must continuously strive for greater clarity now.The first and most important foundational step toward that end is to prayerfully reflect on the Scriptures. This is more than merely acquiring intellectual knowledge of Scripture, as the scribes did. Study is a human effort, and while valuable, the only way to arrive at true understanding of Scripture—and of God, Whom Scripture reveals—is through the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Here and now, we must be open to illumination that comes only from God.Many of the scribes criticized Jesus because they relied solely on their own interpretation of Scripture. Most of them failed to be open to the guidance of the Holy Spirit in their study. Perhaps the one scribe who spoke to Jesus with understanding and was “not far from the kingdom of God” stirred Jesus' Sacred Heart with a longing that all scribes—and all of us—would approach His Word with the same openness.Reflect today on the scribes and see yourself in them. Pray for the gift of divine illumination as you spend time in God's Word, seeking to follow the example of the one scribe who understood. Invite the Holy Spirit to guide your understanding so that, like those listening to Jesus in the Temple, you, too, may understand His Word “with delight.”My revealing Lord, I pray that one day I may be blessed with the Beatific Vision, beholding You face to face and comprehending all mysteries in the fullness of Your divine gift. Until that day, open my mind to understand and my heart to respond to You. Reveal Yourself and Your Truth to me, that I may delight in You now and forevermore. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: Christ the Universal King by Lawrence OP, license CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.Source: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Slaking Thirsts
Thursday Ninth Week in Ordinary Time - Gospel = Person - Fr. Ryan Mann

Slaking Thirsts

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 6:05


Fr. Ryan preached this homily on June 4, 2026. The readings are from 2 Timothy 2:8-15, Psalm 25:4-5ab, 8-9, 10 and 14, Mark 12:28-34 (Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time) Connect with us! Website: https://slakingthirsts.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@SlakingThirsts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slakingthirsts/

Slaking Thirsts
Thursday Ninth Week in Ordinary Time - How Do You Love God ~ Fr. Patrick Schultz

Slaking Thirsts

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 9:20


Fr. Patrick preached this homily on June 4, 2026. The readings are from 2 Timothy 2:8-15, Psalm 25:4-5ab, 8-9, 10 and 14, Mark 12:28-34 (Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time) Connect with us! Website: https://slakingthirsts.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@SlakingThirsts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slakingthirsts/

Joe In Black Ministries Podcast
1354. Fr Joe homily:Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time | June 4. 2026

Joe In Black Ministries Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 3:24


Send us Fan MailCheck out the JIBM Web site at:  https://www.joeinblackministries.com/To submit comments or questions, please email: joeinblackministries@gmail.comPlease use the following link if you would like to financially support Church of the Holy Family: https://pushpay.com/g/hfgrandblanc?sr…Support the show

Daily Catholic Mass
Readings and Homily: Bishop Louis Tylka, DD

Daily Catholic Mass

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 11:21


Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time

Daily Homily with Father Kevin Drew
Daily Homily - 060426

Daily Homily with Father Kevin Drew

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 8:00


Join Father Kevin Drew as he preaches on this Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time. Today's readings First Reading: 2 Timothy 2:8-15 Psalm: Psalm 25:4-5ab, 8-9, 10 and 14 Gospel: Mark 12:28-34 Catholic Radio Network

Father Daniel's Homilies
Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time

Father Daniel's Homilies

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 12:09


The Good Word
Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time: June 4 (Fr. John Kingsbury, C.Ss.R.)

The Good Word

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 4:10


This reflection was originally published in 2022. While the Redemptorist's title, location, and the specific days and dates mentioned may no longer align, the reading and reflection remain just as relevant today!

Daybreak
Daybreak for June 4, 2026

Daybreak

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 51:26


Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time Saint of the Day: St. Petroc; Sixth Century son of a Welsh king; he became a monk, and went with some friends to Ireland to study; they went to Cornwall, in England, and spent thirty years there; Petroc then made a pilgrimage to Rome and Jerusalem, at which time he is also reputed to have reached the Indian ocean where he lived for some time as a hermit on an island; he returned to Cornwall, established a community of his followers, and then became a hermit; he was known for his miracles, and died in 564 while visiting some of his disciples Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 6/4/26 Gospel: Mark 12:28-34

The Catholic Word Podcast
Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time

The Catholic Word Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 33:00


ROSARY - LUMINOUS MYSTERIES today.  DIVINE MERCY CHAPLET for Thursday.

Letters From Home
Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time - Ms. Joan Watson

Letters From Home

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 7:39


The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time by Ms. Joan Watson. Ordinary Weekday First Reading: Second Timothy 2: 8-15 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 25: 4-5ab, 8-9, 10 and 14 Alleluia: Second Timothy 1: 10 Gospel: Mark 12: 28-34   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at www.stpaulcenter.com/memberships

theWord
Son of David?

theWord

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 5:15


For 5 June 2026, Friday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time, based on Mark 12:35-37, sent in from Hyde Park, Johannesburg, ZA.

Daily Reflections with Fr. John
Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time

Daily Reflections with Fr. John

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 4, 2026 4:27


Ask the Lord for the grace not simply to know the commandments, but to live them with a heart transformed by love.

St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology
Wednesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time - Dr. John Bergsma

St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2026 9:21


The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Wednesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. John Bergsma. Charles Lwanga and Companions, Martyrs Obligatory Memorial First Reading: Second Timothy 1: 1-3, 6-12 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 123: 1b-2ab, 2cdef Alleluia: John 11: 25a, 26 Gospel: Mark 12: 18-27   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at www.stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Catholic Daily Reflections
Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time - The Law Fulfilled in Love

Catholic Daily Reflections

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2026 6:50


Read OnlineOne of the scribes came to Jesus and asked him, “Which is the first of all the commandments?” Mark 12:28We continue to read about Jesus' various interactions, teachings, and prophetic actions in the Temple area during Passover, just days before He would be arrested and killed. During the week, Jesus cleansed the Temple of moneychangers and merchants and was confronted with hostility by various religious and political factions.First, a group of chief priests, scribes, and elders challenged His authority to cleanse the Temple and then unsuccessfully conspired with some Pharisees and Herodians to trap Him in a legal dilemma. Next, some Sadducees confronted Him, but Jesus' answer exposed their misunderstanding of the Scriptures and the power of God. In today's Gospel, after witnessing that exchange, a scribe—impressed by Jesus' answer—came forward. Rather than trying to trap Him, he asks a sincere question: “Which is the first of all the commandments?”At that time, the scribe's question reflected a common rabbinical discussion about the hierarchy of the Law. Perhaps because of the widespread disagreements among the various religious factions—priests, scribes, Pharisees, Sadducees—scholars often sought to determine a guiding principle for what had been identified in Jewish tradition as 613 commandments within the Torah. Some commandments, like the prohibition of idolatry, seemed weightier, while others, like dietary laws, were considered less important.Jesus' response does not simply rank the commandments; it reveals their true purpose by uniting them in a way that fulfills the entire Law. Instead of engaging in legalistic debates, He elevates the discussion by going directly to the heart of the Law with a twofold summary: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength” and “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:30–31). By doing so, Jesus shows that love—of God first and of neighbor as an extension of that law—is the foundation and fulfillment of every commandment.The scribe's response—“Well said, teacher”—demonstrates both humility and wisdom, and Jesus affirms his understanding: “You are not far from the Kingdom of God.” This interaction contrasts with the previous confrontations between Jesus and the religious leaders. Rather than trying to trap or discredit Jesus, the scribe listens attentively and responds with sincerity, and “No one dared to ask him any more questions” (Mark 12:32, 34).Many in the crowd had likely been following Jesus' encounters with the various religious and political factions throughout the week. At first, they may have been uneasy, seeing the repeated attempts to discredit Him. But as Jesus responded with authority and truth, they witnessed the growing contrast between those who sought to manipulate the Law for their own purposes and those who, like this scribe, genuinely desired to understand it.Our own lives are sometimes burdened with controversy and division. Whether in politics, religion, academics, or daily life, disagreements arise that can easily lead to contention. When unchecked, these conflicts can foster division, hostility, and even obsessions that steal our peace. Jesus' interaction with this scribe offers us a path forward: the way of humble inquiry, sincere dialogue, and the pursuit of Truth grounded in love. When we approach discussions with a heart open to God rather than with a desire to win an argument, we draw closer to His Kingdom. Reflect today on the witness of this scribe. Though Jesus' teaching on love of God and neighbor is of paramount importance, so is the example this scribe set in pursuit of the Truth. Consider your own approach to God's Truth by examining your daily interactions with others. Do you struggle with being combative, resort to trickery, or obsess over being right and getting your way? Or do you seek the Truth that brings understanding and unity? Seek to imitate this scribe in humility and sincerity, and you, too, will not be far from the Kingdom of God.Lord of Perfect Love, the fulfillment of Your Law is found in the pure and holy love of charity. Help me to love You above all things, and from that love, to see and treat others as You do. May my love for You transform me into an instrument of Your divine charity, that through me, Your love may bring healing, unity, and peace. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: The Scribe Stood to Tempt Jesus By James TissotSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Slaking Thirsts
Wednesday Ninth Week in Ordinary Time - Trust and Love ~ Fr. Ryan Mann

Slaking Thirsts

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2026 6:23


Fr. Ryan preached this homily on June 3, 2026. The readings are from 2 Timothy 1:1-3, 6-12, Psalm 123:1b-2ab, 2cdef, Mark 12:18-27 (Memorial of Saint Charles Lwanga and Companions, Martyrs) Connect with us! Website: https://slakingthirsts.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@SlakingThirsts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slakingthirsts/

Slaking Thirsts
Wednesday Ninth Week in Ordinary Time - THIS is Holiness ~ Fr. Patrick Schultz

Slaking Thirsts

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2026 7:07


Fr. Patrick preached this homily on June 3, 2026. The readings are from 2 Timothy 1:1-3, 6-12, Psalm 123:1b-2ab, 2cdef, Mark 12:18-27 (Memorial of Saint Charles Lwanga and Companions, Martyrs) Connect with us! Website: https://slakingthirsts.com/ YouTube: www.youtube.com/@SlakingThirsts Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slakingthirsts/

Today's Catholic Mass Readings
Today's Catholic Mass Readings Thursday, June 04, 2026

Today's Catholic Mass Readings

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2026 Transcription Available


Full Text of Readings Thursday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 356 The Saint of the day is Blessed Angelina of Marsciano Blessed Angelina of Marsciano's Story Blessed Angelina of Marsciano founded the first community of Franciscan women other than Poor Clares to receive papal approval. Angelina of Marsciano was born to the Duke of Marsciano near Orvieto. She was 12 when her mother died. Three years later, the young woman made a vow of perpetual chastity. That same year, however, she yielded to her father's decision that she marry the Duke of Civitella. Her husband agreed to respect her previous vow. When he died two years later, Angelina of Marsciano joined the Secular Franciscans and with several other women dedicated herself to caring for the sick, the poor, widows and orphans. When many other young women were attracted to Angelina's community, some people accused her of condemning the married vocation. Legend has it that when she came before the King of Naples to answer these charges, she had burning coals hidden in the folds of her cloak. When she proclaimed her innocence and showed the king that these coals had not harmed her, he dropped the case. Angelina of Marsciano and her companions later went to Foligno, where her community of Third Order sisters received papal approval in 1397. She soon established 15 similar communities of women in other Italian cities. Angelina of Marsciano died on July 14, 1435, and was beatified in 1825. Her liturgical feast is celebrated on July 13. Reflection Priests, sisters and brothers cannot be signs of God's love for the human family if they belittle the vocation of marriage. Angelina respected marriage, but felt called to another way of living out the gospel. Her choice was life-giving in its own way.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Daybreak
Daybreak for June 3, 2026

Daybreak

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2026 51:26


Wednesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time Memorial of St. Charles Lwanga and companions; Charles was born in 1860, and he became a page in the royal court of Mwanga, the king of the Baganda in the south of what is now Uganda; the king was hostile to Christians, and when Joseph Mkasa, master of the pages and a Catholic, tried to protect the young pages, he was beheaded; Charles was appointed to succeed him; the king demanded that all remaining pages renounce their Christian faith, and when they refused, they were burned to death in 1886 Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 6/3/26 Gospel: Mark 12:18-27

Letters From Home
Wednesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time - Dr. John Bergsma

Letters From Home

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2026 9:21


The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Wednesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. John Bergsma. Charles Lwanga and Companions, Martyrs Obligatory Memorial First Reading: Second Timothy 1: 1-3, 6-12 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 123: 1b-2ab, 2cdef Alleluia: John 11: 25a, 26 Gospel: Mark 12: 18-27   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at www.stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Homilies by Fr. Len MacMillan
06-02-26 - Weekday Mass, Tuesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time

Homilies by Fr. Len MacMillan

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 3, 2026 8:20


Homily from the Mass offered Tuesday, June 2nd - 1st Reading: 2 Peter 3:12-15a, 17-18- Gospel Reading: Mark 12:13-17 - To support the podcast financially, click here: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://stpiuscda.org/online-giving⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology
Tuesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time - Dr. Shane Owens

St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2026 9:34


The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Tuesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. Shane Owens. Ordinary Weekday/ Marcellinus and Peter, Martyrs First Reading: Second Peter 3: 12-15a, 17-18 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 90: 2, 3-4, 10, 14 and 16 Alleluia: Ephesians 1: 17-18 Gospel: Mark 12: 13-17   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at www.stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Catholic Daily Reflections
Wednesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time - Turning Our Eyes to Eternity

Catholic Daily Reflections

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2026 6:58


Read OnlineSome Sadducees, who say there is no resurrection, came to Jesus and put this question to him, saying, “Teacher, Moses wrote for us, ‘If someone's brother dies, leaving a wife but no child, his brother must take the wife and raise up descendants for his brother.' Now there were seven brothers…” Mark 12:18–20The Sadducees were a Jewish sect composed mainly of the Temple leaders, including many priests. They held theological and political views that differed significantly from those of the Pharisees. The Sadducees accepted only the Torah (the first five books of the Old Testament) as authoritative, whereas the Pharisees recognized the entire Hebrew Scriptures, including the Prophets, historical books, and Wisdom literature, and upheld a highly developed oral tradition based on centuries of rabbinic interpretation. This led to tension and theological disagreements.The Sadducees denied the resurrection of the dead, the immortality of the soul, and the existence of angels—all of which were central to Pharisaic belief—because they believed those truths were not found in the Torah. They believed that God's blessings were given for this life and that when one died, the soul perished with the body.Despite their theological disputes with the Pharisees, both groups found common ground in opposing Jesus. Today's Gospel illustrates the Sadducees' failed attempt to trap Jesus in a legalistic theological dilemma, using the law of Levirate marriage (cf. Deuteronomy 25:5–10) to challenge the doctrine of the resurrection.The Sadducees took their turn to trap Jesus not only to prove Jesus wrong but also to justify their beliefs before the Pharisees. They pose an extreme hypothetical scenario, in which seven brothers successively marry the same woman, each dying childless and ask: “At the resurrection when they arise, whose wife will she be? For all seven had been married to her” (Mark 12:23). Their intent is not to seek truth, but to mock the very idea of life after death.Jesus responds, not with complicated legal reasoning, but with divine wisdom that lifts their minds beyond earthly concerns. He begins by rebuking their limited understanding: “You do not know the Scriptures or the power of God” (Mark 12:24). Then, He offers a twofold response (cf. Mark 12:24–27).First, Jesus addresses the question of marriage after the resurrection: “When they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but they are like the angels in heaven.” After the resurrection of the dead, human existence will be radically transformed. Earthly institutions such as marriage—good and holy as they are—belong to this world, not the next. In the life to come, every soul will find its perfect fulfillment in the Beatific Vision. Second, Jesus refutes their denial of the resurrection of the dead using the Torah: “As for the dead being raised, have you not read in the Book of Moses, in the passage about the bush, how God told him, ‘I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob'? He is not God of the dead but of the living.”Though the Sadducees had built their entire theology on the Torah, they failed to recognize the implication of God's words to Moses. If God is “the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob,” then these patriarchs must still be alive in His presence. God did not say, “I was the God of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob,” but “I AM.” With this statement, Jesus shatters their disbelief and unveils the reality of eternal life. Perhaps even the Pharisees enjoyed His answer. Reflect today on the central truth Jesus revealed to the Sadducees: The soul is immortal, and those who die in God's grace will rise again to live eternally in His presence, in perfect communion with all the angels and saints. This truth must always be our focal point in life. Too often, we live as the Sadducees did—as if this life is an end in itself. By turning our eyes toward eternity, we not only better our lives here and now, but we also live in the hope of Heaven, knowing that all we do now must be for the sake of eternal treasure in the life to come.My eternal Lord, I believe in the promise of Heaven and the coming of the New Heavens and Earth, when all souls will rise and receive their eternal reward or judgment. As I journey through this life, keep my eyes fixed on eternity, and let my hope be firmly rooted in the resurrection to come. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: The Sermon on the Mount By Guillaume FouaceSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Daily Catholic Mass
Readings and Homily: Fr. Leonard

Daily Catholic Mass

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2026 15:51


Tuesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time

Rooted in the Really Real
Tuesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time- Fr. Steve Homily

Rooted in the Really Real

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2026 4:53


Listen to Fr. Steve's homily from 6/2/26.Thanks for listening! Please leave us a rating and/or review, and share on social media or with a friend! You can email ashley@rootedinthereallyreal.com with any questions or suggestions. God bless.

god homily ninth week ordinary time fr
Father Daniel's Homilies
Tuesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time

Father Daniel's Homilies

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2026 13:39


The Good Word
Tuesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time: June 2 (Fr. Denis Sweeney, C.Ss.R.)

The Good Word

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2026 3:42


Daybreak
Daybreak for June 2, 2026

Daybreak

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2026 51:26


Tuesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time Optional Memorial of Saints Marcellinus and Peter; martyrs under Diocletian's persecution in the early Fourth Century; holding to their faith, they converted the prison keeper, Artemius, and his wife and daughter to Christianity; they were martyred, and later honored by Constantine the Great, who built a basilica in their honor; they are mentioned in the Canon of the Mass Office of Readings and Morning Prayer for 6/2/26 Gospel: Mark 12:1-12

The Catholic Word Podcast
Tuesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time

The Catholic Word Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 2, 2026 33:56


ROSARY - SORROWFUL MYSTERIES today.  DIVINE MERCY CHAPLET for Tuesday.

St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology
Monday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time - Dr. Scott Hahn

St. Paul Center for Biblical Theology

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2026 10:46


The St. Paul Center's daily scripture reflections from the Mass for Monday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time by Dr. Scott Hahn. Justin, Martyr Obligatory Memorial (Ninth Week in Ordinary Time) First Reading: Second Peter 1: 2-7 Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 91: 1-2, 14-15b, 15c-16 Alleluia: Revelation 1: 5ab Gospel: Mark 12: 1-12   Learn more about the Mass at www.stpaulcenter.com To encounter Christ in Scripture and share Him with others. Join us at www.stpaulcenter.com/memberships

Catholic Daily Reflections
Tuesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time - The Path to True Unity

Catholic Daily Reflections

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2026 6:53


Read OnlineSome Pharisees and Herodians were sent to Jesus to ensnare him in his speech. They came and said to him, “Teacher, we know that you are a truthful man and that you are not concerned with anyone's opinion. You do not regard a person's status but teach the way of God in accordance with the truth. Is it lawful to pay the census tax to Caesar or not? Should we pay or should we not pay?” Mark 12:13–14Just prior to today's Gospel, the chief priests, scribes, and elders confronted Jesus in the Temple area while He taught, challenging His authority to drive out the moneychangers and merchants. Though they withdrew out of fear of opposition from the crowds, they sent the Pharisees and Herodians to trap Him (cf. Mark 11:27–33). The alliance of these five groups, who were often opposed to one another—especially the Pharisees and the Herodians—well illustrates the old adage: “The enemy of my enemy is my friend.”The Pharisees were known for their strict adherence to oral traditions derived from the Mosaic Law. They frequently clashed with the chief priests and elders, who focused on Temple worship and ceremonial rites.The Herodians were despised by both the Pharisees and the other leaders for their support of Herod and Roman occupation. Their allegiance to Rome enabled them to maintain political influence under Herod's rule. Despite their usual animosity, these groups united in their shared opposition to Jesus. His ongoing influence among the people, His teachings that exposed their hypocrisy, and His actions in the Temple all threatened their authority and control.Though all five of these groups are less than inspirational, we can learn from them. They depict fallen human tendencies—such as pride, fear, and self-interest—that we all struggle with. First, true unity only comes from aligning ourselves with God and His Truth, which fosters humility, charity, and a desire to seek God's will above our own interests. By contrast, the “unity” shared by this coalition of factions was grounded in malice. Hatred can so blind us that we turn from our core values and seek ways to fuel our resentment. This is precisely what these normally divided groups did: Their mutual hatred for Jesus and fear of losing influence over the community drove them to unite in a shared mission of opposition—something we, too, can fall into if we let malice guide us.In today's Gospel, we can also learn from the questioning of the Pharisees and Herodians. They begin with flattery, which is always deceptive and manipulative. Their insincere praise was not meant to honor Jesus but to disarm Him and lure Him into their trap. Perhaps they failed to recall the wisdom found in Proverbs: “Those who speak flattery to their neighbor cast a net at their feet” (29:5) or “Charm is deceptive…” (31:30). Flattery not only deceives others but often ensnares those who use it, leading them into sin, as seen in today's Gospel.Second, the question they ask is a carefully constructed trap. If Jesus said, “Yes, it is lawful to pay the census tax to Caesar,” the Pharisees could accuse Him of disregarding Jewish law and collaborating with Roman oppressors. If He said, “No,” the Herodians could report Him to Herod as a revolutionary opposing Roman authority. Their malice was cunning, but Jesus' wisdom transcends theirs, and He escapes their trap. His response not only avoids their deceit but also exposes their hypocrisy, turning their malicious scheme into an opportunity to teach eternal truths.Reflect today on these fallen human tendencies vividly illustrated by these five groups who were aligned in their opposition to our Lord. When you look at your own “alliances,” what is it that unites you? Shared hate and resentment? A common fear or opposition to something? Bonds formed over shared negativity or resentment are fleeting and destructive. True and lasting unity is found only in aligning ourselves with the Truth of the Word of God, striving together for holiness, and building relationships grounded in Christ. Reflect on whether your relationships draw you closer to Christ or distract you from Him, and seek to realign them with His Truth.Lord of all Wisdom, at times I form bonds, like the Pharisees and Herodians, that are grounded in sin and negative emotions rather than in Your charity and truth. Free me, I pray, from these oppressive sins, and make me honest, pure of heart, and a seeker of the unity found only in You. Jesus, I trust in You.Image: The Tribute Money By Leopold LayerSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.

Daily Bread - Catholic Reflections
Share In the Divine Nature - Ninth Week In Ordinary Time - Monday, Jun 1, 2026

Daily Bread - Catholic Reflections

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2026 14:00


Father talks to us today about our gift from God to share in His Divine Nature.

Today's Catholic Mass Readings
Today's Catholic Mass Readings Tuesday, June 02, 2026

Today's Catholic Mass Readings

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 1, 2026 Transcription Available


Full Text of Readings Tuesday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time Lectionary: 354 The Saint of the day is Saints Marcellinus and Peter Saints Marcellinus and Peter's Story Marcellinus and Peter were prominent enough in the memory of the Church to be included among the saints of the Roman Canon. Mention of their names is optional in our present Eucharistic Prayer I. Marcellinus was a priest and Peter was an exorcist, that is, someone authorized by the Church to deal with cases of demonic possession. They were beheaded during the persecution of Emperor Diocletian. Pope Damasus wrote an epitaph apparently based on the report of their executioner, and Constantine erected a basilica over the crypt in which they were buried in Rome. Numerous legends sprang from an early account of their death. Reflection Why are these men included in our Eucharistic prayer, and given their own feast day, in spite of the fact that almost nothing is known about them? Probably because the Church respects its collective memory. They once sent an impulse of encouragement through the whole Church. They made the ultimate step of faith.Saint of the Day, Copyright Franciscan Media

Catholic Daily Reflections
Monday of the Ninth Week in Ordinary Time - Rejection Transformed

Catholic Daily Reflections

Play Episode Listen Later May 31, 2026 6:43


Read OnlineJesus began to speak to the chief priests, the scribes, and the elders in parables. “A man planted a vineyard, put a hedge around it, dug a wine press, and built a tower. Then he leased it to tenant farmers and left on a journey. At the proper time he sent a servant to the tenants to obtain from them some of the produce of the vineyard.” Mark 12:10–12Today's Gospel takes place during the Passover at the Temple in Jerusalem, just days before Jesus' Passion and Death. The chief priests, scribes, and elders of the people were outraged and wanted to put Jesus to death, but they feared the people who were hanging on His every word.In today's parable, the “vineyard” is a biblical metaphor for Israel. The Prophet Isaiah chastised the people of Israel for being like a fruitless vineyard, and Jesus' parable would have been immediately understood by His audience as a reference to that prophecy (cf. Isaiah 5:1–7). Fearlessly yet mercifully, Jesus brings this metaphor to life, applying it directly to Israel and the religious leaders who were present and plotting His death.Jesus' parable teaches that God is the owner of the vineyard and has provided everything necessary for it to flourish: the hedge for protection, the wine press for fruitfulness, and the tower for vigilance. These symbolize God's providence, blessings, and the spiritual resources given to His chosen people to bear fruit. The tenant farmers, to whom the vineyard is leased, represent Israel's leaders, who were entrusted with shepherding God's people.The servants sent by the owner symbolize the Old Testament prophets, whom God sent to call the people of Israel to repentance and fidelity. These prophets were often rejected, mistreated, or killed by Israel's leaders—a sobering reminder of humanity's resistance to God's call throughout history, and our resistance to His grace today.The beloved son represents Jesus Himself, sent by the Father in a final appeal for repentance. However, the tenants of Israel—now referring to the chief priests, scribes, and elders before Him—plot to kill the son, mistakenly believing they can maintain their control over the Jewish people. Their envy and pride blind them to their God-given responsibilities within the community and their duty to accept Jesus as the Messiah.Though tensions were high and anger filled the hearts of the religious leaders, Jesus spoke boldly. While the people were amazed at His authority and teaching, they were likely uncertain and fearful of what might happen next.Most people in Jesus' position, risking their lives as our Lord was, would quickly become worried for their own safety. Jesus was not. He knew the Father's will and the eternal value that would come from His Passion and Death. For that reason, He quotes Psalm 118:22–23: “The stone the builders rejected has become the cornerstone. By the LORD has this been done; it is wonderful in our eyes.”Jesus knew that He was about to be rejected: betrayed, falsely accused, arrested, tortured, and killed. Yet He also knew that He was the fulfillment of Psalm 118. He was the “stone” that, once rejected, would become the “cornerstone” of the Church and the New Covenant of grace. With this divine hope and mission in mind, Jesus didn't run and hide; He confronted rejection directly. He knew that His rejection would transform the worst—the murder of the Son of God—into the best—salvation for all who believe in Him and repent. Reflect today on Jesus' courage during that sermon as He foresaw all that would unfold that week. While we might expect such courage from the Son of God, He invites us to imitate Him. Every evil that befalls us has the potential, through grace, to become part of that cornerstone. As members of Christ's Body, the Church, we are called to courageously allow grace to transform our own rejections and sufferings in Christ. In doing so, the foundation of Christ's Church continues to be made manifest in our world today through us. My Lord, the Cornerstone of the Church, You willingly accepted and endured rejection, transforming it into the means of our eternal salvation. Grant me the courage to not only imitate You but to embrace and share in Your rejection. May my own experiences of rejection be transformed by grace into a foundation for faith in our world today. Jesus, I trust in You.  Image: Jan Rombouts I, CC0, via Wikimedia CommonsSource: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.