Today’s Catholic Mass readings for Thursday, August 13, 2026, remind us about obedience to God and the importance of forgiving others from the heart. In the first reading, God asks the prophet Ezekiel to become a sign to the people. In the Gospel, Jesus teaches that forgiveness should have no limit.
First Reading: Ezekiel 12:1–12
The first reading comes from the Book of Ezekiel. God tells Ezekiel to prepare his belongings and act as someone going into exile.
Ezekiel carries out God’s instructions in the sight of the people. Through this unusual action, God gives the people a warning about what is going to happen to Jerusalem and its people.
The reading shows that God sometimes uses signs to get our attention. His message may challenge us, but it is always meant to lead us back to Him.
Reflection:
Are there areas of your life where God is asking you to change? Like Ezekiel, we are called to listen to God’s word and respond with obedience.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 78:56–57, 58–59, 61–62
Response: Never forget the deeds of the Lord.
The psalm recalls how God’s people turned away from Him despite all He had done for them. They became unfaithful and provoked Him by following other gods.
The response reminds us not to forget God’s goodness. When we remember what God has done for us, we are encouraged to remain faithful even during difficult times.
Gospel Acclamation: Psalm 119:135
Alleluia, alleluia.
The Gospel acclamation asks God to let His face shine upon His servant and to teach us His ways.
It is a simple prayer for God’s guidance. We need His wisdom to understand His word and live according to His will.
Gospel: Matthew 18:21–19:1
In today’s Gospel, Peter asks Jesus how many times he should forgive someone who sins against him. Peter suggests seven times.
Jesus responds by teaching that forgiveness should not be limited to a particular number.
He then tells the parable of the unforgiving servant. A servant receives mercy from his master because he cannot repay a huge debt. However, after receiving forgiveness, the same servant refuses to show mercy to another person who owes him much less.
Jesus uses the story to teach an important lesson about God’s mercy.
If God forgives us, we must also learn to forgive others. Christian forgiveness is not simply about saying that someone did nothing wrong. It means choosing not to remain trapped in anger and resentment.
What Today’s Gospel Teaches Us
Forgiveness can be difficult, especially when someone has deeply hurt us. However, Jesus calls us to forgive from the heart.
This does not mean that we should ignore wrongdoing or allow people to continue hurting us. It means that we should surrender our desire for revenge to God and ask Him for the grace to forgive.
Sometimes forgiveness is a process. We may need time to heal, pray and regain peace. Still, we can begin by asking God to help us release bitterness.
Reflection for Today
Today’s readings invite us to listen to God, remember His goodness and forgive others.
Ezekiel teaches us the importance of obedience. The psalm reminds us not to forget God’s works. Jesus then brings the message into our relationships by teaching us to show others the same mercy we receive from God.
As you begin this day, ask yourself:
Who do I need to forgive?
Perhaps there is someone whose name immediately comes to mind. Bring that person before God in prayer. You do not have to pretend that the hurt did not happen. Simply ask God to heal your heart and give you the grace to forgive.
Prayer for Today
Lord God,
help me to listen to Your word and follow Your ways.
Thank You for Your mercy and for all You have done for me.
Give me the grace to forgive those who have hurt me.
Remove anger, bitterness and resentment from my heart.
Help me to remember Your mercy whenever I struggle to show mercy to others.
May Your word guide my thoughts, words and actions today.
Through Christ our Lord.
Amen.
Today’s Readings at a Glance
| Reading | Bible Reference |
|---|---|
| First Reading | Ezekiel 12:1–12 |
| Responsorial Psalm | Psalm 78:56–57, 58–59, 61–62 |
| Gospel Acclamation | Psalm 119:135 |
| Gospel | Matthew 18:21–19:1 |