The Twentieth Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Let us give thanks

for the feast you have laid before us.

We are filled

with your generosity and love.

Lord, you provide for our every need

every moment of everyday.

May we be open to accepting

all you have to offer.

Journal/Reflection Questions

Proverbs 9:1-6

• What do you learn about hospitality from this reading?
• How might you advance in the way of understanding?

 

Ephesians 5:15-20

• Do you know a wise person? Does wisdom come naturally or is it something learned?
• How can you address others with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs without being thought of as a bit crazy?

John 6:51-58

• What can you do to remain in God?
• What does Jesus mean by “eat my flesh and drink my blood”? How do you “feed” on Jesus?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• God created us with a hunger. How do you fill your hunger?
• What is your favorite meal? How often do you eat it?  Who makes it?  Why is it your favorite?
• What emotions do you have when you gather for a meal with family and friends? How does it compare to the feast you have when you come to communion?
• Describe a time when you acted foolish. What were the circumstances?
• When was the last time you prepared a meal/feast for someone? What were the circumstances?  How did you feel?  Did you take your time and pay attention to detail?
• What does it mean to you to have “fullness of life”?
• Make a list of as many ways as you can think of to “eat the bread” which Jesus provides.

Closing Prayer

Leader:  When we are baptized in water and Spirit…

ALL:  You call us to the FEAST!

Leader:  When we gather as community…

ALL:  You call us to the FEAST!

Leader:  When we share a meal…

ALL:  You call us to the FEAST!

Leader:  When we come together to celebrate…

ALL:  You call us to the FEAST!

Leader:  Jesus, YOUR death is our invitation;

ALL:  to the eternal FEAST!

Leader:  Praise to YOU, Lord Jesus Christ!

ALL:  AMEN!

 

Challenge for the Week:   God says to give thanks always, in all ways and in everything give thanks.  However, there are so many bad things that happen in our lives and we sometimes find ourselves blaming God for those things.  When we start blaming God for things that make us mad, irritate us or cause us pain, we distance ourselves from Him.  We separate ourselves from accepting the nourishment God lays out in front of us…we push it aside, stomp on it and let it rot…but He continues to provide.  This week, acknowledge God in everything…good and bad, comfortable and uncomfortable…let Him know you are grateful for what He gives to you in your life, even the tough stuff.  Tell God THANK YOU!!!