Readings for Sunday, October 23 — 30th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Sirach 35:12-14,16-18; Psalm 34:2-3, 17-19, 23; 2 Timothy 4:6, 16-18; Luke 18:9-14

Suggested Reflection Questions:

• The reading from the Wisdom of Ben Sira assures us that “the prayer of the lowly pierces the clouds” and it remains before the Lord until it is answered. If the cries of the poor, oppressed, and vulnerable will always be heard and answered by God, how are we to respond to them?

• At the end of his second letter to Timothy, Paul is coming to terms with his imminent martyrdom. He likens himself to an athlete who competed well and will receive a crown as his prize. In what ways are we called to be like athletes in our life of faith? What does it mean to “compete well?”

• Jesus tells a parable illustrating how we should pray. Why does he choose a tax collector as an example of righteousness in prayer? Why do we need to practice humility in prayer?