18TH AUGUST 2025: DAILY CATHOLIC MASS READINGS TODAY: Monday of the 20th Week in Ordinary Time

Hello brothers and sisters, On August 18, 2025, the Church celebrates Monday of the 20th Week in Ordinary Time (Year I). The readings today remind us of God’s faithfulness and the call to live generously, trusting in His providence. The first reading (Judges 2:11–19) describes how the Israelites turned away from God to worship false idols after Joshua’s death. As a result, they fell into oppression. Yet whenever they repented, God raised up judges to rescue them. This cycle shows God’s mercy and patience, even when His people faltered again and again. It is a reminder that, no matter how many times we fall, God is always ready to call us back and deliver us. The responsorial psalm (Psalm 106) confesses Israel’s sins but praises God’s saving mercy: “Remember us, O Lord, as you favor your people.” It emphasizes that even when we are unfaithful, God’s covenant love remains constant. The Gospel (Matthew 19:16–22) presents the encounter between Jesus and the rich young man. The young man sincerely seeks eternal life and has observed the commandments, but Jesus invites him further: “If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” Sadly, the man goes away sorrowful, for he has many possessions. This passage challenges us to examine what holds us back from fully following Christ. Are there attachments, comforts, or securities we cling to more than Him?