Catholic Mass - Third Sunday in Ordinary Time 22 January 2023 - LIVESTREAM

January 22, 2023 Third Sunday in Ordinary Time GOD’S LOVING CARE Two readings today refer to the northeast region of ancient Israel: “the land of Zebulun and the land of Naphtali.” Upon hearing these names, some of us might consult maps and determine exactly where these regions lie. Others might let the unfamiliar names drift by unnoticed. If no maps are handy—but we don’t want to ignore the references completely—consider this: we might not know the latitude and longitude of Zebulun and Naphtali, but God does. We praise God for watching over every inch of land and sea, caring perfectly for each creature on the planet. While Isaiah celebrates the depth of God’s care with “abundant joy and great rejoicing,” Saint Paul begs us to remember how the Lord shows this loving care: through the cross. In today’s Gospel, Jesus calls Peter, James, and John to follow him. We follow too, confident that God accompanies us, wherever we are. Copyright © J. S. Paluch Co., Inc. TODAY’S READINGS First Reading — The burdens that were once laid upon the people have been vanquished (Isaiah 8:23 — 9:3). Psalm — The Lord guides and saves me (Psalm 27). Second Reading — Paul exhorts the believers at Corinth: As there is one Christ, so too must there be no divisions among you. (1 Corinthians 1:10-13, 17). Gospel — After calling his first disciples, Jesus goes throughout Galilee teaching, proclaiming the gospel, and curing the people (Matthew 4:12-23 [12-17]).