Deacon Randy Kiel joins guest host Sam Halligan for the Thursday Scripture preview of the Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, unpacking the First Reading from Second Kings and the Second Reading from Romans. He reveals how the prophet Elisha and a generous Shunammite woman point forward to Mary, teaching that true influence is rooted in generosity and grace rather than wealth. The reflection ties Saint Paul's teaching on Baptism — dying to sin and rising to new life in Christ — to the Catholic call to let the Holy Spirit have dominion over every heart.
This Sunday's Readings Deacon Randy Kiel previews the readings for the Thirteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year A — Sunday, June 28, 2026: First Reading, 2 Kings 4:8-11, 14-16a; Second Reading, Romans 6:3-4, 8-11. Read along at USCCB.org.
A Woman of Influence — and Generosity The Shunammite woman is wealthy and influential, but she is known for her generosity, welcoming Elisha with an "upper room" complete with a bed, table, chair, and lamp — the very elements of a sanctuary. Deacon Randy draws out the Hebrew sense that true influence flows from a generosity of grace: receiving God's goodwill and pouring it out for others.
Foreshadowing Mary When the childless woman is promised a son within the year, the story echoes Abraham and Sarah — grace given through generosity made manifest in the gift of a child. Deacon Randy connects this to Mary, who came from a "barren land" and did not merely reflect God's grace but gave birth to Grace itself.
Baptized into Christ Turning to Romans, Saint Paul reminds us we were baptized into Christ's death so we might walk in newness of life. Deacon Randy unpacks the meaning of being plunged into the waters of Baptism — drowning sin so the Holy Spirit can reign — and prays that the Word of God would not return empty but accomplish its purpose in every listener.
Listen Live Catch the Sunday readings preview with Deacon Randy Kiel every Thursday on The Catholic Morning Show, weekdays at 7:00 AM Central. Stream at IowaCatholicRadio.com or on the Iowa Catholic Radio app.
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