1st Reading – 1 Kings 19:9a, 11-13a

At the mountain of God, Horeb,
Elijah came to a cave where he took shelter.
Then the LORD said to him,
“Go outside and stand on the mountain before the LORD;
the LORD will be passing by.”
A strong and heavy wind was rending the mountains
and crushing rocks before the LORD—
but the LORD was not in the wind.
After the wind there was an earthquake—
but the LORD was not in the earthquake.
After the earthquake there was fire—
but the LORD was not in the fire.
After the fire there was a tiny whispering sound.
When he heard this,
Elijah hid his face in his cloak
and went and stood at the entrance of the cave.

The 19th chapter of 1st Kings is the story of Elijah, who was a prophet during the reign of King Ahab (869-850 BC). Ahab was married to Jezebel, who worshipped Baal. Ahab also worshipped Baal and even erected an altar to Baal.

Today’s reading joins Elijah as he is fleeing for his life. Jezebel is seeking to kill him in retaliation for destroying the false prophets of Baal (1 Kings 18:40).

Continue reading “Aug 13, 2023: 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time (A)” →