27th Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year C - Faith, The Size of a Mustard Seed & “Miserere Mei, Deus”

Friends, the first reading from the prophet Habakkuk may sound bleak, but it feels very current. He speaks of oppression, injustice, outrage, violence, and discord—words that still describe much of our world today. Like the prophet, we can feel discouraged when these problems persist or worsen. But Habakkuk reminds us that God hears our prayers. Even if the answer seems delayed, it “…will surely come, it will not fail.” God is present, even in the waiting.

The second reading shifts the focus to the gift of faith. Paul urges Timothy to “…fan into flame” the Spirit he received—a call we all share. We are invited to deepen our faith and live it out boldly, even when Gospel values clash with those of the world. In doing so, we become witnesses to a better way—Christ’s way.

In the Gospel, the apostles ask Jesus to increase their faith. His response is striking: even faith as small as a mustard seed can achieve great things. Faith doesn’t need to be huge—it just needs to be real and active. Jesus then tells a parable about a servant doing his duty without expecting praise. It may sound harsh to us, but it reminds us that as disciples, our service is not for recognition, but a response to love. Serving God is not a burden—it’s a privilege. Elsewhere, Jesus tells a similar story, but with a twist: the master returns and serves the faithful servants. This is the heart of the Gospel and what we celebrate in the Eucharist—Christ serving us.

A final thought: in daily life, we meet many who serve—shop workers, nurses, drivers, teachers. While they may simply be doing their jobs, a word of thanks reminds them—and us—that they are valued. That’s something Jesus would certainly do.

We’re honored to share our latest video, 'Miserere Mei, Deus', a timeless choral masterpiece that has moved listeners for centuries. This lyric video presents both the original Latin text and its English translation, allowing you to follow the sacred words of Psalm 51 as the harmonies unfold.

Composed in the 1630s for the Sistine Chapel, Allegri’s Miserere was long considered one of the Vatican’s most guarded musical treasures. It was traditionally sung during Holy Week at Tenebrae services, creating an atmosphere of deep penitence and awe. For over a century, its performance was restricted to the Papal Choir alone—until, as legend tells, a 14-year-old Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart transcribed it perfectly from memory after hearing it once in Rome.

Video can be watched by clicking here or by clicking on the thumbnail below.