26th Sunday of Ordinary Time

 

Opening Prayer

Father

Even when I make a mistake

YOU love me!

When I don’t follow your precepts

YOU forgive me!

Thank you for seeing the good in me

YOU fill my heart!

Let YOUR WORD give me

the ability to do this for others!

Amen

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Numbers 11:25-29

• What does this scripture tell you about the ability to speak about God? Do you live this out?  Give an example.
• What do you learn about the power of the Holy Spirit in this scripture? How has this same power provoked you?  Be specific.

 James 5:1-6

• Do believe your faith can become corrupted? Why or why not?  What causes your faith to become distorted or off track?  What role does God play in all of this?
• Where do you see this scripture being played out in society? Where do you see yourself in the scenario?  Is there anything that can be done to change the outcome?

 Mark 9:38-43, 45, 47-48

• What is the message Jesus is trying to covey? Who do you know that needs to hear it?  How can you apply this message to your own life?
• Jesus again is saying it is better to die than to live without. How does this message apply to you?  How did it apply to Him?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• What was the last piece of good news you heard? Where did you hear it from and who did you tell?
• Are you more likely to share good news with others than bad news? Does it make a difference if the news is about you or someone else?
• Would you say you ALWAYS follow the rules or do what you are told? Are there exceptions?  Do you follow the rules to avoid negative consequences or for another reason?
• What keeps you from speaking about your faith to everyone you meet?
• What happens to your faith if you do not share it?
• What are some of the things you feel strongly about that you would stand up and fight for? Can you list at least five things?
• Is it better to stand back and not get involved or to fight for what you believe, even if it is against an opposition stronger than you?
• What is your favorite accessory? How do you feel when you wear it?  Is it your favorite because others compliment you when you wear it or because of whom gave it to you?
• Do you have a favorite bible verse or Gospel story about Jesus? Who else knows what it is?
• What is the minimum and/or maximum you need to bring to Jesus?

 

Closing Prayer

Leader:  When I am in silent prayer…

 ALL:  Holy Spirit, come dwell in me!

Leader:  When I need the courage to speak…

ALL:  Holy Spirit, come dwell in me!

Leader:  When I stand up for what is right…

 ALL:  Holy Spirit, come dwell in me!

Leader:  When I bring comfort to a stranger…

ALL:  Holy Spirit, come dwell in me!

Leader:  I am your servant…

ALL:  Holy Spirit, come dwell in me!

 

Challenge for the Week:  Have you ever considered that as a believer and follower, dare you say as a disciple of Christ, you are capable of performing a miracle?  Many would say this is too boastful but consider how believing this to be true is actually humility in action.  Think about the everyday miracles that happen, often times unnoticed, aren’t these moments full of God’s grace, love and mercy?  Isn’t that what constitutes a miracle in the first place?  Spend time this week thinking of the miracles that have occurred over the past few weeks and months.  The Spirit is alive and well, working among us, are you allowing it to work through you to perform a miracle???