Over the past several Sundays, we heard Jesus’ teaching on how to be a disciple. Today, Jesus points out what is of true value for those who follow him.
The apostles said to the Lord, “Increase our faith.” The Lord replied, “If you have faith the size of a mustard seed, you would say to this mulberry tree, ‘be uprooted and planted in the seas,’ and it would obey you.”
Keep in mind that the mulberry tree is very large with an extensive root system. It would be difficult to not only uproot this tree but also to grow it in deep water. The point is that genuine faith, as tiny as a mustard seed, can bring about unexpected things.
Jesus then tells a parable about servants and their master. Luke inserts this parable here as a way of instructing the leaders of his Christian community that they are not worth anything in themselves or in their work for the Lord. The fact that disciples have done their duty does not empower them to lay a claim upon God or that they are worthy of God’s graciousness. That graciousness is and remains God’s gift.
In the Second Reading, from Saint Paul’s second Letter to Timothy, the apostle proclaims:
God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control. . . Take as your norm the sound words that you heard from me, in the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus. Guard this rich trust with the help of the Holy Spirit that dwells within us.
Faith is God’s gracious gift, unmerited by anything that we can say or do. We are merely servants, empowered by faith, to serve God and serve others. Faith will see us through any hardship or calamity, no matter how bleak. When we ask the Lord the increase our faith, he replies that if we truly believe, all we need is faith the size of a tiny mustard seed. Are we ready to do impossible and incredible things for God?
27th Sunday in Ordinary Time Entrance Antiphon Within Your Will, O Lord (Steve Angrisano, Sarah Hart and Curtis Stephan)
Let Us All Rejoice #178
Today’s Entrance Antiphon is another lengthy text, this time from the Book of Esther. It is a prayer of faith in the power of God. “Within your will, O Lord, all things are established, and there is none that can resist your will. For you have made all things, the heaven and the earth, and all that is held within the circle of heaven; you are Lord of all.”
Entrance Chant Tend the Ground (Curtis Stephan)
Breaking Bread #624
Curtis Stephan based his song on Laudato Sí, Pope Francis’ encyclical on environmental responsibility. The agrarian imagery in the lyrics complement well the teaching in today’s Gospel.
Responsorial Psalm If Today You Hear His Voice, Harden Not Your Hearts (Ben Walther)
Spirit & Psalm 2025: p. 328
Psalm 95 is an appropriate response to the First Reading’s proclamation from the prophet Habakkuk, who sought to inspire his people against the calamities of the world around them.
Gospel Acclamation Alleluia: Mass of Restoration (Josh Blakesley and Leland G. “Grae” McCullough, IV)
Spirit & Psalm 2025: p. 330
We joyfully sing praise to Jesus, the Word of God who remains with us forever.
Presentation and Preparation of the Gifts I Will Have Faith in You (Sarah Hart)
Never Too Young #246
Sarah’s thoughtful ballad of faith is a hidden gem in the OCP contemporary repertoire.
27th Sunday in Ordinary Time Communion Antiphon The Lord Is Good to Those Who Hope in Him [Option 1] (Steve Angrisano, Sarah Hart and Curtis Stephan)
Let Us All Rejoice #179
This antiphon text from the Book of Lamentations underscores the readings of the day.
Communion Chant Cornerstone (Jackie Francois)
Spirit & Song #282
This is another song of faith in God’s power. The second verse is appropriate for today as it speaks of the seed that will flourish and grow a hundred-fold.
Sending Forth Our God Is Good (Josh Blakesley and Cooper Ray)
Spirit & Song #227; Never Too Young #103
Josh and Cooper’s energetic song sends us forth from this liturgy to proclaim the Kingdom of God.
Liturgy Blog is a weekly liturgy planning resource for musicians, liturgists, homilists, youth groups, faith sharing groups, and all who look to the liturgical readings for inspiration and nourishment. Join Ken Canedo as he breaks open the Scripture and suggests tracks from the Spirit & Song contemporary repertoire.
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