Sunday, September 10th Readings

23rd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Father

How can I care for others

          like you care for me?

Help me to see more like you,

          so I might be more giving.

Give me a heart like you,

          so I can love and show mercy.

Open my ears and my arms,

          to hear the cry and give comfort.

You ask nothing more than for us

          to love you and love others;

Let us pray together and heal the world!

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

Ezekiel 33:7-9

  • Who has God appointed you watchman over? What are your responsibilities as watchman? 
  • How will God hold us accountable for our sins? How will He hold us accountable for the sins of others?

Romans 13:8-10

  • God asks nothing but to love one another; how well do you show love to others?
  • What obstacles hold you back from giving and showing love to your neighbor?
  • How do you define neighbor? Is it the same way God defines neighbor?

Matthew 18:15-20

  • What does this scripture tell you about the power of prayer? What does it tell you about the power of community? Share a personal experience when you saw this power firsthand.
  • How have you testified/How can you testify to the power of prayer?
  • When have you seen/heard someone testify to the power of prayer?

General Questions for Journaling

  • When do you feel safe? Where are you? Who is with you?
  • Share a time when you did not feel safe. What caused you to feel this way? How did you overcome the feeling?
  • Are there places, people or situations you avoid because you fear them?
  • How do you think those who are put into the position of “watchman” in the community or world do in their role? Find a good example.
  • Who watches over you? How do they watch over you? Share an example.
  • Do you believe there are prophets today? Who do you identify as present-day prophet? What tells you they are a prophet?
  • How does your life bear witness to the goodness of God?
  • If you could give yourself a grade for how well you keep the commandments, what would your grade card say?
  • Make a list of the things you love about yourself. Is it easy or difficult to come up with 10 things?
  • Jesus said to love one another even when it is difficult. Are you shutting yourself off from a relationship or relationships for fear of getting hurt?
  • Is there a relationship you need to give some attention to this week? Something in need of repair?
  • Is it easy or difficult to take responsibility for your actions?
  • Share a time when you refused to listen to the thoughts of another person. What was the circumstance? Did you ever end up hearing their opinion?
  • How are you an advocate of your faith? In your family? In your workplace?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord you are present in all things

ALL:  May I not ignore the gentle nudges of my heart.

Leader:  Lord you are present in all things

ALL:  May I not ignore the gentle whisper in my soul.

Leader:  Lord you are present in all things

ALL:  May I not ignore the gentle invitation of faith.

Challenge for the Week:  This week, look up the 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman.  He has determined humans show love in five different ways.  Read through these and determine if you relate to one or more of them.  Do you agree with his assessment, or do you think there are more or less ways to express love?  Which would you say is your preferred way to express love to others?  Which would you say is your preferred way to receive love from others?  How does God show love to you?  Does it fit into one of these five ways?  When you look at the way God loves and compare it to the way you love others, what can you do to love more like God? 

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the Weekly Scripture Journal email list by contacting heather@makingscripturerelevant.com.

Discipleship 5K: A Physical and Spiritual Journey to the Cross by Heather Neds, author of the Weekly Scripture Journal is more than a book, it is a guide to becoming a stronger disciple.  Grab a copy and start the journey!

Sunday, September 3rd Readings

22nd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Jesus,

You came to find the lost.

You came to rescue the imprisoned.

You came to save the sinner.

I am lost, imprisoned and a sinner.

May I allow myself to be found.

May I allow myself to be rescued.

May I allow myself to be saved.

I am found, rescued and saved.

Thank you Jesus, you are my Savior!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Jeremiah 20:7-9

  • Can you imagine being “duped” by God? What would (did) it look like? What was the purpose? 
  • Do you believe God wants us to be “duped”?
  • Describe what it feels like to feel something in your bones? Have you ever felt something so deep? Share the experience.

Romans 12:1-2

  • How does the study of scripture help you to transform your mind? How does this transformation change your words and actions; be specific.
  • What does Saint Paul mean when he says, “don’t conform yourself to this age?” How does this specifically speak to you?

Matthew 16:21-27

  • What cross are you called to pick up today? Are you able to pick it up? Is your cross light or heavy? Explain.
  • If God does not think the way that humans do, how is it you are able to understand what God wants for you?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Does oppression happen in this world? Who do you know is oppressed?  How do you know? What do you do about it? Do you suffer from oppression?
  • How do you know God is driving your actions or if you are following your own desire? How can you tell which way God is calling you to go?
  • How does it feel to lose something? Describe the process of letting go.
  • How do you feel when you find something? How would you describe the process of finding a place for the thing you found?
  • Are there injustices in the world which break your heart? Are there injustices which occur that cause your gut to ache? Is the Holy Spirit calling you to do something about it?
  • What was the last exciting news you shared and with whom did you share it? What was your purpose for sharing? Was it your news to share?
  • What was the last disappointing news you shared and with whom did you share it? What was your purpose for sharing? Was it your news to share?
  • Have you ever risked being made fun of to stand up for what you believe? Share the experience.
  • How can you give strength to another who is standing up for what they believe in, even if you don’t agree?
  • Have you ever been thankful for suffering? What was the circumstance?  Why were you thankful?
  • What does it mean to “lose your life” according to God? What does it mean to “lose your life” according to the world?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord fill me…

ALL:  with reckless desire for you!

Leader:  Lord fill me…

ALL:  with unending compassion for others!

Leader:  Lord fill me…

ALL:  with raging fire for justice!

Leader:  Lord fill me

ALL:  with determination to do your will!

Leader:  Lord fill me

ALL:  with the ability to surrender,

Leader:  so I can be

ALL:   more like you each day!

Challenge for the Week:  In your life, you have positive and negative influences.  How do you determine which are the good ones and which are the bad ones?  They are not always clear.  There are times when there is a positive influence that you ignore because you are not in a good place yourself and other times when you are too close to a situation to see you are being influenced in a negative way.  How can you know?  When you turn to God for help and clarity, He can bring to light what is good and what is evil but are you willing to listen?  Spend time this week looking at the things which influence your life and prayerfully consider how the people and things you allow into our daily life affect you in a positive or negative way.  Summer is about to end and with the change of the season; you too should take time to change. 

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the Weekly Scripture Journal email list by contacting heather@makingscripturerelevant.com.

Discipleship 5K: A Physical and Spiritual Journey to the Cross by Heather Neds, author of the Weekly Scripture Journal is more than a book, it is a guide to becoming a stronger disciple.  Grab a copy and start the journey!

Sunday, August 27th Readings

21st Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Father

Vast is Your love for me,

          let me see it each day!

Endless are the gifts You give,

          let me show gratitude!

Abundant is the mercy You grant,

          let me share it with others!

You surround me with what I need

          and guide me through,     

                   my ups and downs.

Forever You are with me; 

          You are my all in all!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 22:19-23                            

  • Imagine yourself as Eliakim. How does it feel to be called God’s servant? Can you see yourself being given a place of honor in God’ house? 
  • How does God show His authority in this reading? How can you allow God to have authority over your life? Who has authority now?

Romans 11:33-36

  • Describe what “riches” Saint Paul is referring to in this scripture. 
  • How might you seek to know what God is thinking? How does one “know God’s mind”?

Matthew 16:13-20

  • Explain why the disciples and others would compare Jesus to Jeremiah, Elijah and John the Baptist? 
  • Who do you say Jesus is? Do you tell him? Do you tell others?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Where do God’s blessings come from? Are they given on purpose or by accident? How do you know?
  • How does God inhabit your life?  Be specific.
  • What are the things you don’t understand about God? What are the things that you DO understand about God? How does the knowledge of these things affect your faith?
  • What experience(s) have taught you about the meaning of the words, eternal, everlasting, forever?  What have you learned?
  • How can faith help you to let go of past hurts, worries or tragedy?
  • Do you see God’s plan for you? What makes you know for sure this is the path God intends for you?
  • Is the work you do or the job you have one you choose or one you “fell into”? Could this have any bearing on your attitude toward it? 
  • Do you feel you are using the gifts God gave you to complete the tasks required of your job?
  • Are you fulfilling your vocation in the position you hold? Do you feel as though God choose you to do the work you do?
  • How does Jesus reveal himself to you?  Where are you?  What is the situation?  How do you carry the experience with you?
  • How is it that Jesus makes Peter the “ROCK” on which to build His church but Peter denies knowing Jesus three times? How does this make you feel?
  • What qualities of Peter make him the perfect example of a disciple?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  I am humbly in Your presence…

ALL:  when I allow the silence to take over.

Leader:  I am humbly in Your presence…

ALL:  as I pause to give thanks before a meal.

Leader:  I am humbly in Your presence…

ALL:  when I look into the eyes of an innocent child.

Leader:  I am humbly in Your presence…

ALL:  as hear the rumble of thunder and crack of lightning.

Leader:  I am humbly in Your presence…

ALL:  when I see a couple holding hands.

Leader:  I am humbly in Your presence…

ALL:   as I open my heart and mind to the wisdom of your Spirit!

Challenge for the Week:  Growing up in the church, I’ve heard the phrase, “clothed in Christ”.  As a child I would imagine literally wearing a white robe like the one we see Jesus wearing in many of the pictures of him.  Now as an adult, this phrase takes on much more meaning since it is really a figurative phrase.  What are specific ways a person can be “clothed in Christ”?  Spend time this week reflecting on these ways and then focus on yourself, discerning how you too are “clothed in Christ.  In your prayer time, ask God to help you move your thinking so you can take ownership of this phrase and believe it when you say, “I am clothed in Christ!”

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the Weekly Scripture Journal email list by contacting heather@makingscripturerelevant.com.

Discipleship 5K: A Physical and Spiritual Journey to the Cross by Heather Neds, author of the Weekly Scripture Journal is more than a book, it is a guide to becoming a stronger disciple.  Grab a copy and start the journey!

Sunday, August 20th Readings

20th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Holy Father,

May I walk in the house of Lord,

          all of my days!

May I find a comfortable place

          to lay my head!

May I hear your voice clearly,

          despite the noise!

May I show gratitude to you,

          for the gifts you give!

Praise your name forever!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 56:1,6-7                            

  • How do you show mercy in your life? To whom do you show mercy? How does it compare to God’s boundless mercy?
  • How might the world be different if we truly lived life knowing God’s grace and mercy were endless?
  • Is it possible to not give God enough praise or thanks? Can you give God too much? Explain.

Romans 11:13-15,29-32

  • What makes you feel accepted by God? What do you think makes you unworthy of God’s blessing?
  • In what ways do you disobey God? How does the Sacrament of Reconciliation help you feel accepted?

Matthew 15:2-28

  • What surprises you about this scripture passage? How does this fall in line with or go against who you know Jesus to be?
  • What does the phrase, “even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from the table of their masters” mean? What exactly was the woman saying?
  • When has Jesus shown you the same mercy as he shows the Canaanite woman?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Share examples of ways people honor God.
  • What feelings or emotions do you feel knowing God will never stop loving you? 
  • Has there ever been an occasion when you felt excluded within your faith community? What was it that made you feel separated? How might the scriptures this week help you heal?
  • Describe the power of mercy. What does it offer? How do we receive it? Where does it come from? Who can have it?
  • How do you receive your messages from God? Do you have voicemail or do God’s messages get right through?
  • How would you judge a woman begging at the feet of Jesus? Have you ever done the same thing?
  • Where in your life should you be more persistent? In prayer? Good works? Self-discipline? Encouragement?
  • Does your love have limits? Explain. How can the scriptures help you overcome the things that limit your love? Be specific.
  • Where does mercy come from? What are some examples of mercy? 

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, I am blessed

ALL:  Let it show on my face!

Leader:  Lord, I am blessed

ALL:  Let it be heard in my words!

Leader:  Lord, I am blessed

ALL:  Let it be seen by my actions!

Leader:  Lord, I am blessed

ALL:  Let it be felt through my compassion!

Leader:  Lord, I am blessed

ALL:  Let it be acknowledged in my prayers!

Leader:  Lord, I am blessed

ALL:   Let it be shared with others!   

Challenge for the Week:  You can learn so much from this Canaanite woman.  She doesn’t back down, she remains calm and she kneels before Jesus and asks for help.  How often do you just nonchalantly ask Jesus to help you with something in prayer?  Are the things you pray for simply a list of wants and needs or are they true desires?  Do you pray with persistence and fervor?  When you attend Mass or Sunday Worship listen intently to the prayers of the faithful, the petitions of the community.  Set your mind to faithfully listen and put emotion and feeling into the prayer intentions so that you pray them with your whole being. 

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the Weekly Scripture Journal email list by contacting heather@makingscripturerelevant.com.

Discipleship 5K: A Physical and Spiritual Journey to the Cross by Heather Neds, author of the Weekly Scripture Journal is more than a book, it is a guide to becoming a stronger disciple.  Grab a copy and start the journey!

Sunday, August 13th Readings

19th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Father,

Before me are many paths to choose;

Some are worn, some hard to navigate.

Many leave me feeling pain, sorrow or regret.

Others fill me with great joy and satisfaction.

Sharpen my senses to seek YOU on the path ahead.

Then even when the waves crash against me,

YOU are there when I reach out. 

May I seek YOU in each new dawn,

in each raindrop and in every shining star.

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

1Kings 19:9a, 11-13a

  • Identify a “great wind” or an “earthquake” in your life. How was God present in this moment?
  • When have you stood at the opening of a cave in your life? What kept you from going in? What motivated you to run into the darkness?
  • What causes you to want to hide your face from God?

Romans 9:1-5

  • Are there some in your family whom cause you “great sorrow” or “constant anguish” because of their belief or unbelief? What can you learn from St Paul in this scripture that might help?
  • Are there some people whom you need to separate or be “cut off” from in order to be a better follower of Christ? How can you relate to St Paul in this scripture? 

Matthew 14:22-33

  • Is your faith on a solid rock or on sinking sand? What can you learn from Peter to help you stay steady? How does this look in your everyday life?
  • How does Jesus’ example motivate you to reach out to others?

General Questions for Journaling

  • How do you feel when you are cut off from someone? Do you try to re-connect? Do you let it go?
  • What keeps you connected to God? Is it a good connection? Have you ever been cut-off?
  • What causes you to sink in your faith? Name some of the weights that drag you down.
  • What obstacles hinder you from reaching out to God fully?
  • Can God calm your fears or worries like He calm’s the sea? When have you experienced God’s calming power?
  • Would you describe your faith as strong? Would you be able to stand back up like Peter?
  • Jesus went up the mountain to pray. Do you have a sacred place where you like to go to pray? What makes it sacred?
  • How does God invite you to step out of the boat?
  • Are you able to distinguish when God is in the wind, the fire and the earthquake and when He is not? How close do you think you need to be in order to know the difference?
  • What forces work against you in building your faith? What do you struggle with in order to keep the faith?
  • Share an example in your life which shows how you trust Jesus.
  • Are there times in your life when you find it easier to listen to God?
  • Are there times in your life when it is difficult to listen to God?
  • What happens to God’s promises when you walk away from worship? How can you carry the feeling of security with you?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  When I am feeling lost and alone…

ALL:  Fix my eyes on Jesus!

Leader:  When I don’t know which way to turn…

ALL:  Fix my eyes on Jesus!

Leader:  When I stumble and fall and sink…

ALL:  Fix my eyes on Jesus!

Leader:  When I am so full of joy I overflow…

ALL:  Fix my eyes on Jesus!

Leader:  When I feel fulfilled and satisfied…

ALL:  Fix my eyes on Jesus!

Leader:  When I stand up for what I believe…

ALL:  Fix my eyes on Jesus!

Challenge for the Week:  Many people live in the “in between” of faith.  It’s a place where they believe but don’t practice their beliefs with intention OR they practice so hard they are frustrated with the results.  It can be difficult to find a healthy balance of living out and practicing those beliefs.  When scripture says love your neighbor and pray for your enemies, it sounds beautiful and practical.  However, how many believers actually put the words into practice?  Do you love everyone, even those who hurt you or those you love?  When a tragedy happens do you immediately begin to pray for the victims and not the perpetrators?  Consider where your faith and your beliefs intersect.  

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the Weekly Scripture Journal email list by contacting heather@makingscripturerelevant.com.

Discipleship 5K: A Physical and Spiritual Journey to the Cross by Heather Neds, author of the Weekly Scripture Journal is more than a book, it is a guide to becoming a stronger disciple.  Grab a copy and start the journey!

Sunday, August 6th Readings

18th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Creator God

You gave me a hunger and a thirst

          only YOU can satisfy.

May I come to understand

how YOUR Word is what I need.

Fill me with YOUR mercy and grace;

          complete me and make me whole.

My searching is over!

AMEN!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 55:1-3

  • What picture does this scripture paint? What images show abundance?
  • When have you felt satisfied? Describe the feeling.

Romans 8:35,37-39

  • What keeps you away from God? How do you support the relationship? How do you hurt the relationship?
  • How do you remain close to those you love? Those on earth? Those in heaven?

Matthew 14:13-21

  • Where is God in this scripture? In what ways?
  • How are you called to be like the crowd? What do you have to share with others?

General Questions for Journaling

  • What do you thirst for? What do you hunger for? 
  • What does your soul ache for? Have you ever felt so strongly about something or needed something so much you ached?
  • God satisfies. How many ways can you list?
  • What is your definition of riches? How does God provide you with riches in your life?
  • Describe the most satisfying meal you’ve ever eaten. What made it satisfying?  Explain.
  • How do you communicate with God? How does God communicate back? 
  • How does working on your relationship with God differ from your other relationships? How is it similar?
  • Make a list of at least 10 ways you can show love to God.
  • Make a list of at least 10 ways you can show love to others.
  • Can you have too much of a good thing? Why or why not?
  • What is your definition of the promises of Christ?
  • Identify moments in your life when you felt full, not from food. Is there a common thread in these experiences?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Let all who thirst…

ALL:  come to the Lord!

Leader:  Let all who hunger…

ALL:  come to the Lord!

Leader:  Let all who have nothing…

ALL:  come to the Lord!

Leader:  Let all who seek…

ALL:  come to the Lord!

Leader:  Let all who are weary…

ALL:  come to the Lord!

Leader:  Let all who need rest…

ALL:  come to the Lord!

Leader:  Let all who are burdened…

ALL:  come to the Lord!

Leader:  For the Lord is near…

ALL:  all who call upon him!

Challenge for the Week:  In the summer, many of us are guests or host a potluck or picnic where everyone brings something to contribute to the meal.  Part of the fun of a potluck is to see what others bring, make a favorite dish or to have the chance to try out a new recipe.  Even if there are several types of salads or duplicate dishes, there is always plenty of food and no one is left hungry.  There are also always plenty of leftovers.  Imagine how this is similar to the feeding of the 5,000.  They weren’t invited to a potluck but they attended one.  We hear the story of the boy with some fish and bread who was generous enough to step forward with the little he had to share with the crowd but I believe it was because of his example others contributed what they had too.  We must realize that even though we think what we have to give is not enough, when we allow God into our lives and have the courage to step out in faith, He satisfies and completes us.  Show generosity in some way this week by sharing with someone what you have to give.  Bring more than simply a food dish with you to the next potluck, bring a generous heart full of the love of Jesus and see what miracles happen!

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the Weekly Scripture Journal email list by contacting heather@makingscripturerelevant.com.

Discipleship 5K: A Physical and Spiritual Journey to the Cross by Heather Neds, author of the Weekly Scripture Journal is more than a book, it is a guide to becoming a stronger disciple.  Grab a copy and start the journey!

Sunday, July 30th Readings

17th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Heavenly Father

Guide me and teach me

to know what it means to be a treasure

Open my eyes

to the treasures You have given to me each day

Lead me to seek

the treasures You have waiting for me in Your Word;

a heart of gold,

an attitude lined with silver

and infinite wealth.

AMEN!

Journal/Reflection Questions

1Kings 3:5,7-12

  • The word understanding in Hebrew means obedient. What are your definitions of the words understanding and obedient? How do they differ? How are they similar?
  • How does this scripture passage model prayer for us? Does Solomon do all of the talking? How does God respond? How is this similar or different to how you pray? 
  • King Solomon is noted as being a very wise person. How does his wisdom show through this scripture?

Romans 8:28-30

  • Have there been experiences in your life where able to relate to this adage of “all things work together for good?” Can you see where God was/is in the experience?
  • Does this scripture mean that when bad things happen, God is not there? How would you explain what this scripture means to some who has experienced darkness, abandonment, or loss in their life?

Matthew 13:44-52

  • What does the phrase “kingdom of God” mean to you?
  • How do you hear God speaking to you in your life? Is it a whisper? A shout? How do you respond?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Do you listen to your dreams? What do they tell you?
  • How do you feel about your enemies? Do you have enemies?
  • How do your instincts differ from what God wants?
  • What kind of “wisdom” comes from age?
  • Do you believe that “youth” is an age or a frame of mind? Explain.
  • What obstacles do you believe you have that keep you from being the best you can be?
  • What are the blessings you want from God?  Be specific.
  • Make a list of good things God has provided for you.
  • Make a list of bad things that have happed because your love God.
  • Is there a situation in your life right now which you need to let God shed some light on? Do you believe it will make a difference?
  • Do you sometimes feel like you are playing hide and seek with God? Who is hiding? Where do you hide?
  • How do see heaven? What do you believe it is?
  • Where do you find security? Is it real? How do you know?
  • What confirmation do you have that you are living the life God calls you to live?

Closing Prayer

Solomon’s Prayer

ALL:  Therefore give to Your servant

an understanding heart to judge Your people,

that I may discern between good and evil. 

Challenge for the Week:  Spend time this week breaking down each request in this prayer.  How can you put this prayer into practice, so it isn’t just a bunch of words you pray?  As you are discerning the actions you should take to bring this prayer to life, pray it each morning, each noontime and before you go to bed.  It is short enough that you might be able to memorize it quickly and add it to your daily prayers from now on.

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the Weekly Scripture Journal email list by contacting heather@makingscripturerelevant.com.

Discipleship 5K: A Physical and Spiritual Journey to the Cross by Heather Neds, author of the Weekly Scripture Journal is more than a book, it is a guide to becoming a stronger disciple.  Grab a copy and start the journey!

Sunday, July 23rd Readings

16th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

God of great patience!

May we learn from Your Word

          how to be more tolerant of our failings

                   and the faults of others!

Your Word tells us that when we seek You,

          the Holy Spirit fills us with what we lack

                   so we can be better examples of You!

Lord, make us whole in YOU!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Wisdom 12:13, 16-19

  • Where do you see your sin in this scripture? Do you condemn others? Are you unjust? Do you seek power? Do you “lord” over others? Do you hold others prisoner with rules and regulations?
  • Is there someone you know who is need of justice or mercy? How does this scripture encourage you to act out to help them find it?

Romans 8:26-27

  • What does this scripture tell you about the nature of the Spirit?
  • Can you recall a time when the Holy Spirit came to your aid? What was the situation? How did you know it was the Holy Spirit who helped you?

Matthew 13:24-43

  • How does this scripture challenge or affirm your understanding of love?
  • Share an example of how removing weeds from a person’s life, it could cause more harm to them than good?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Share an example of God’s humility.
  • What do you have hope for right now?
  • Do you believe the world is basically good or basically bad? Why?
  • Do you identify yourself by your actions or by your emotions? What words would you use to identify yourself (not by your role or job but as a person)?
  • Where can you see kindness right now? Is it difficult or easy to find?
  • What does it mean to repent? How can you repent? Is there a limit?
  • Is there someone whom you need to seek forgiveness because you have been unkind or unjust to them? 
  • When did you first learn how to pray?
  • How has your prayer life developed over time? What has changed over the years? Create a timeline to show the progress of your prayer life.
  • When have you stood up for someone who couldn’t stand up for themselves? What was the situation and what inspired you to step in?
  • Are there people in your life or in the community who need you to stand up for / with them? What is a specific action step you can take to do so?
  • How are the mustard seed and yeast similar? How are they different?
  • A mustard seed and yeast are described as a metaphor for heaven. What other relatable image(s) would you use to describe heaven?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Father, search my heart…

ALL:  for goodness and kindness.

Leader:  Father, search my heart…

ALL:  for a sense of longing.

Leader:  Father, search my heart…

ALL:  for acceptance and mercy.

Leader:  Father, search my heart…

ALL:  for compassion for others.

Leader:  Father, search my heart…

ALL:  for love and forgiveness.

Leader:  Father, search my heart…

ALL:  for the strength to endure.

Leader:  Father, search my heart…

ALL:  and find it full of you!

Challenge for the Week:  This scripture suggests you “try and try again.”  When you fail, you turn to God to repent and then continue to press on.  This is difficult to do when you are faced with adversity.  Good athletes practice for hours to perfect their skills to become better.  Take a lesson from them and choose a new practice to help you get rid of the weeds in your life and be diligent about it.  Make a decision to create a new/good habit.  Don’t focus on trying to get of a bad one, simply plant a good one and cultivate it.  Put all of your focus on the new habit.  Don’t feel guilty if you mess up or skip a day, repent and try again!  Keep putting forth the effort to grow and in time consistent attention will form the new habit so much that it will weed out the bad one!

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the Weekly Scripture Journal email list by contacting heather@makingscripturerelevant.com.

Discipleship 5K: A Physical and Spiritual Journey to the Cross by Heather Neds, author of the Weekly Scripture Journal is more than a book, it is a guide to becoming a stronger disciple.  Grab a copy and start the journey!

Sunday, July 16th Readings

15th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

God of all creation;

Make me good rich soil for planting

        so Your Word may settle in and grow!

May I find You in each experience

        even when I must face rocky ground or thorny bushes!

Help me reach and stretch each new day

        to put forth great fruit, worthy of the kingdom!

AMEN!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 55:10-11

  • What is the purpose of fertile ground? What elements are needed in order to make the ground fertile?
  • Explain how this scripture can be a metaphor for God’s purpose for you.

Romans 8:18-23

  • Share an example of how good can come from suffering.
  • How do you live in expectation of God? What can you do to be more open to the present instead of the past or the future?

Matthew 13:1-23

  • Who are you in the parable? The flower? The sun? The rain? The one who tramples? The one who chokes? The one who scorches? The birds? The thorn? The rocks? The one who blocks the roots? The one who plants the seed? The fruit? (Consider reflecting on when you’ve been all of them)
  • Are there things in your life right now which choke or prick at you, causing you to not grow? Are there rocks on the path, which you are unable to navigate around? Where do you see weeds pop up in your life?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Have you ever contemplated the changing of the seasons? What never ceases to astonish you each time a new season passes into another?
  • Compare the cycle of rain to the cycle of life. How do they differ? How are they similar?
  • Share a time when you experienced the feeling of freedom in the beauty of nature.
  • Is it possible to avoid suffering and pain? What are the benefits of avoiding it? What are the benefits of living through it?
  • Where do you see growing pains in the world?
  • Is it possible to prepare for pain? Why or why not?
  • How do you cultivate the goals in your life? How do you fertilize them?
  • What is the significance of rain, sun, soil for the success of a seed? How does this compare to the success of your own life?
  • If your heart was a garden, what would it look like? What would be growing there? Consider the types of flowers, bushes, trees, fruit, vegetables that your heart would grow and why.
  • When was the last time you listened to your heart? What does it sound like? How do you know what your heart desires?
  • Do you think God is concerned about quality or quantity? Give a reason for your answer.

Closing Prayer

Leader:  God of heaven…

ALL:  conquer my fears.

Leader:  God of earth…

ALL:  make straight the path.

Leader:  Jesus, human…

ALL:  teach me to love.

Leader:  Jesus, divine…

ALL:  wash away my sins.

Leader:  Spirit of life…

ALL:  bring comfort and strength.

Leader:  Almighty Spirit…

ALL:  tend to my weary soul.

Leader:  Holy Trinity…

ALL:  be mine forevermore!

Challenge for the Week:  God put so much thought into the changing of the season and perfected the dying and rising of each element of nature.  Spend time this week meditating on Summer, Fall, Winter and Spring; they are very different but also very similar.  How do you relate to each of the seasons and why?  What emotions does each season evoke in you and why?  What significance do the seasons have in your life?  Do you identify with one season more than another?  Which one and why?  What do you think God intended for us to learn from the seasons?  What can they teach you about God?

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the Weekly Scripture Journal email list by contacting heather@makingscripturerelevant.com.

Discipleship 5K: A Physical and Spiritual Journey to the Cross by Heather Neds, author of the Weekly Scripture Journal is more than a book, it is a guide to becoming a stronger disciple.  Grab a copy and start the journey!

Sunday, July 9th Readings

14th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Christ within me,

How I struggle!

I move forward but leave you behind.

I trip and fall, then cry out to you.

My heart knows you are with me.

My will says I can do it alone.

It is a constant battle!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Zechariah 9:9-10

  • The scripture describes a king riding in on a donkey…how do these things go together (King and Donkey)? Where do you see these together in the New Testament?  Share how the two passages are similar and different?
  • Share a time when God won a victory for you. What was the battle?  What did you struggle with and how did God help you overcome the obstacle?

Romans 8:9,11-13

  • What burdens/benefits come from being human vs. divine?
  • If the Holy Spirit dwells in you, how does this change your perspective of yourself? What about if it dwells in others?  Does it affect your perception of them?  How and why?

Matthew 11:25-30

  • What does it mean that God’s yoke is easy?
  • Describe what it feels like to ‘rest’ in God. What does it look like, smell like, taste like, sound like?

General Questions for Journaling

  • How did Jesus show humility? Share specific examples for us to follow.
  • Is humility a leadership quality? Why or why not?
  • Do your actions towards others show your love for God? Share a recent example.
  • How can you tell if the Holy Spirit dwells in you? In others?
  • When might it be necessary to ‘banish’ someone from your life? What actions could be taken to do this?
  • Have your actions ever caused division between you and another person? How did your relationship with God help or hinder the situation?
  • What actions can be taken to overcome the temptations of the flesh? Have you experienced the rewards described in scriptures for doing so?
  • When have you felt the most burdened? How do you overcome it?  What helps to lighten the load?
  • What characteristics of the ‘flesh’ do you wish to shed?
  • What characteristics of the ‘spirit’ do you wish to take on?
  • Imagine a time when you were exhausted and didn’t have any strength to continue. Describe this feeling.  Where did you find strength to carry on?
  • What burdens do you carry? Are there burdens you allow others to carry for you?  Are there burdens you carry which are the responsibility of others?
  • Explain how the Father, Son and Spirit work together.

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Come, dwell in me…

ALL:  let me know meekness.

Leader:  Come, dwell in me…

ALL:  let me know humility.

Leader:  Come, dwell in me…

ALL:  let me know weakness.

Leader:  Come, dwell in me…

ALL:  let me know burdens.

Leader:  Come, dwell in me…

ALL:  let me know hunger and thirst.

Leader:  Come, dwell in me…

ALL:  let me know hurt.

Leader:  Come, dwell in me…

ALL:  so I may find rest!

Challenge for the Week:  Come to me all who are burdened and worried, I will give them rest.  Imagine a parent saying this to a child whose bedtime is quickly approaching and is showing signs of restlessness and weariness.  These words call out to the child just like they call out to you in order to soothe your spirit.  The restlessness melts away when the child is swept up into the secure arms of their parent; they know they are safe, taken care of and loved.  This is what Jesus wants for you too.  God wants you to let go and relinquish the stress and strain of the day so you can fall into His arms and let Him minister to you.  Identify the things in your life which keep you from experiencing this peace of resting in God.  What can you do to move the obstacles which stand in the way of this kind of rest?

“O Jesus!  Yoke us to yourself.  When we too hunger, give us food.  When we too thirst, or tire, or falsely witness, just let us learn to find you and to find ourselves in you!” – from a sermon by St. Augustine

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the Weekly Scripture Journal email list by contacting heather@makingscripturerelevant.com.

Discipleship 5K: A Physical and Spiritual Journey to the Cross by Heather Neds, author of the Weekly Scripture Journal is more than a book, it is a guide to becoming a stronger disciple.  Grab a copy and start the journey!