Sunday, July 18th Readings

16^th Sunday Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Savior,

I wander aimlessly

Let me hear your voice more clearly

Your deepest desire is for me to be with you

Allow me to empty space

So you can fill me

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

Jeremiah 23:1-6

What do you believe makes a “bad shepherd”? What does God say will be done to those who mislead or do not care for the flock?
Where can you be a “good shepherd” to help aid and lead others to safety? Identify three things specifically you can do.

Ephesians 2:13-18

Reflect on some of the walls which divide people today. Which ones are evident in your life, your family, your community? What can be done to start to break down the walls that divide those around you?
Recall a story from the news or from your own life where you witnessed a dividing wall tumbling down. Share that story of restoration with three people this week.
What does this scripture offer in the form of advice?

Mark 6:30-34

Jesus was moved with pity for the crowds gathered…why? Can you think of an example from today where Jesus would also be moved with pity for those gathered?
How would you react if you were in this Gospel reading? Imagine having just come back from a long trip and you are taking a break to regain your energy. However, just as you are about to really relax, you are faced with having to go out again. What would you do? Could you show mercy for these people and give them what they need and sacrifice what you need? Would you instead ask them for mercy to allow you to get the rest you need? How often are you asked to give more than you have for the benefit of others?
Jesus calls his disciples who work for him to take time for themselves. How do you take time for yourself?

General Questions for Journaling

How would you explain that God is just? What helps you to know God is just? Are there examples?
Are there moments in your life when you look back and wonder where God was? Have you ever experienced a time when God wasn’t with you?
Where are modern day shepherds? Are they easy or hard to identify and find?
Who are the shepherds in your life? What makes them voices you listen to and follow?
Can you be a shepherd and be a sheep as well? How is this possible? Identify situations where you are one or the other or both.
What is it about shepherds that God values? What are some of the characteristics needed to make a good shepherd?
Where do you see injustice happening in the world today? Who are the “shepherds” leading the flock?
Where do you see an abundance of compassion in the world? What can you do to increase the work being done already?
Would you say fear is a major cause or contributor to injustice? Why or why not?
Is there someone in your life whom you feel sorry for? What is the situation? What do or can you do for them?
So many people live without purpose; what can you do to help lead them to the shepherd?
What does the symbol of the cross mean to you? Has it changed over the years or does it remain the same as you always remember?

Closing Prayer