Easter

Sunday, May 7th Readings

Fifth Sunday of Easter

Opening Prayer

Jesus

Open the scripture to me

          so I may not neglect to see

                   the good God created.

Bring to life in me

          the spirit of compassion and mercy

                   to continue the work you began.

AMEN!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 6:1-7

  • Who in your community is neglected? What can you do for them to help them?
  • Saint Peter tells the disciples to devote themselves to prayer; what is the purpose of this? What could happen if you devoted yourself to prayer?
  • What do you think the definition of “reputable men” is at the time the scripture was written? How does the definition change to be relevant in today’s society?

1Peter 2:4-9

  • Scripture says a stone will make you stumble and a rock will make you fall.  Share an example of a stone or a rock in the world today or in your own life. What tripped you up? What helped build your faith back up?
  • How does this scripture passage help you feel “chosen and precious”? Be specific.
  • Is your relationship with God the cornerstone of your life?

John 14:1-12

  • What do you think Philip was thinking when Jesus said, “I am in the Father and the Father is in me”? The mystery of the Trinity was not known to the disciples at this time.  How could Philip make sense of what Jesus was telling him?
  • Jesus knew He was going to have to leave but the disciples didn’t understand. Share a time when you had to leave someone in your life. How is it similar to different to Jesus’ leaving?
  • Explain how Jesus is the way the truth and the life. How do you live your life witnessing to this truth?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Brainstorm examples of people in your community who feel neglect. Where can they find help? 
  • Do you belong to a community of faith? How does this community help to build you up?
  • Where do you see the good works of the community in action? What do you do to help the cause?
  • How does it make you feel when you see a need in the community not being met? Are you empathetic? Sympathetic? Do you feel the need is too big or is out of control? Do you feel helpless and unprepared to be able to change the situation? Seek God’s wisdom to help you find out what you should do to help.
  • How is God’s love shown to you through these readings? Are there examples of this type of love in your life today? Where do you see God’s love at work in your community?
  • How do you deal with loss? What is your reaction to death? What helps you to carry on? How can you practice hope in your faith?
  • What do you do to help grow faith in yourself? 
  • What do you do to grow faith in others?
  • What does it mean to you to be obedient in faith? Is it different for everyone? Why or why not?
  • What did you pray for last week? Are you asking God into your prayer or telling God what you want?
  • Where do you get your value? Who or what gives you value?
  • When do you feel the most valued? 
  • What makes you valuable?
  • What sacrifices did you make this week? Did you make them joyfully or complain?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Go!

ALL:  Spread the Good News of the Gospel!

Leader:  Go!

ALL:  Comfort someone who needs comfort!

Leader:  Go!

ALL:  Teach through your words and your actions!

Leader:  Go!

ALL:  Build bridges, not walls!

Leader:  Go!

ALL:  Serve others through love!

Leader:  Go!

ALL:  You have been chosen!

Challenge for the Week:  When Peter says you are a “chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation”, what is he really saying?  What are these words supposed to inspire you to do or to be?  In the Catholic Church, these words are a part of the ritual prayers prayed at Baptism.  Each person, infant thru adult, are baptized into the faith as priest, prophet and king, making it clear to each individual person, you are one in Christ.  How do you live your baptism today?  Do you live your life knowing you are chosen?  How does living in Christ make you royalty?  Is there something you could do to help make the world, the community, your family, more holy?  These are not just words, they are your mission!

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, April 30th Readings

Fourth Sunday of Easter

Opening Prayer

Shepherd

You give me what I need each day

          May I be grateful and have my fill.

You lead me on the path of goodness

          May I accept your mercy and follow.

You call my name to come to you

          May I listen to only Your voice in my life.

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 2:14a, 36-41

  • What emotions do you feel as you read these words? Imagine being there. How do your emotions change?
  • Peter’s advice is to repent. Knowing Peter’s story, how do these words impact you coming from him?
  • Peter is calling everyone to action. What do you feel called to do after hearing his words?
  • Define conversion. How does conversion work? Is it a onetime thing or a lifelong thing? What does it mean when applied to your life? Have you undergone a conversion of some kind? What was the result of it? Do you need to undergo another conversion? Why or why not? 

1Peter 2:20b-25

  • How does this reading remind you to seek God’s grace instead of revenge? How can this be applied to a situation in your life right now?
  • What do you learn about God’s love in this passage? How does it make you feel? How can you help others see this type of love in your life?
  • Jesus had no sin but suffered death to take sin away; write a prayer of thanksgiving to Jesus that your sin is wiped away through his death.
  • Jesus already suffered for your sin, what sin(s) do you hold onto because you think you still need to suffer guilt and shame?

John 10:1-10

  • Who in your life provides the shelter and protection the Shepherd shows to the sheep in this passage? Who do you provide this depth of security for in your life?
  • Are there people you know who need some type of shelter (physical, emotional, spiritual) which you can help lead them to the shepherd?
  • When you see Jesus face to face, do you think you’d have the patience to wait for the gate to be opened or would you want to jump the fence?
  • If Jesus is the gate which you must enter, how does a person pass through? Give examples.

General Questions for Journaling

  • What “cuts you to the heart”? Are there things that hurt so deeply you are called to do something? When was the last time you were called to action because you were “cut to the heart”?
  • Where in your community do you see a need for a change? Is there something you can do to help make a change?
  • Where do you see corruption in the world? In your community? Within yourself?
  • Share a time when you felt convicted of a wrongdoing.
  • Think of a time when you tried to do the right/just thing and your efforts were not rewarded in a positive way. Why do you think good people suffer? Consider some of the reasons a person might have to go through suffering in order to bring about good.
  • Describe a suffering Christian. Do you know anyone who fits the description?
  • When confronted with violence, is violence ever the right response? How does your anger get in the way of following Jesus’ example not to retaliate?
  • Who are the people in your life whom you go to for shelter?  Advice? Counsel? Do they know the Shepherd?
  • What changes in the language when one says they “were” baptized and they “are” baptized? Which are you?
  • When did you last testify to your faith? How did you? Explain how you felt and how others reacted.
  • What qualities does a shepherd have which you want?  How will you develop these qualities?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, you refresh my soul

ALL:  and give me all that I need.

Leader:  Lord, you guide my path

ALL:  and give me all that I need.

Leader:  Lord, you walk beside me

ALL:  and give me all that I need.

Leader:  Lord, you protect me from harm

ALL:  and give me all that I need.

Leader:  Lord, you wrap me in mercy

ALL:  and give me all that I need.

Leader:  Lord, you are my Shepherd

ALL:  and you give me all that I need.

Challenge for the Week:  I invite you to go into deep meditation with the words and phrases of this Gospel.  Take time, perhaps one per day, to take the phrase and sit with it; carry it with you as your daily mantra to mull over. How do these words affect you, what do they tell you, where can they help you make a conversion in your life?  The Good Shepherd:  Calling by Name; Recognition of Voice; Following the Shepherd; Not Following Strangers; Shepherd as Gate. God’s Word can change your life!

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, April 23rd Readings

Third Sunday of Easter

Opening Prayer

It is through Jesus’ birth

you are given hope.

It is through Jesus’ miracles

the world receives healing.

It is through Jesus’ sacrifice

that you are nourished.

It is through Jesus’ resurrection

that you have life everlasting.

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 2:14,22-23

  • Peter speaks to the disciples with such conviction. Where do you believe his strength comes from? Remember, it was only days before when Peter denied Jesus three times. What can you take away from this knowledge and how can it apply to a situation you are dealing with in your life right now?
  • What evidence is there that Jesus rose? How does Peter verify the resurrection?

1Peter 1:17-21

  • Why might this reading be called the Sermon of hope? What gives you hope as you read it, listen to it or meditate on it?
  • Jesus died in order to save. He gave His life in order for generations upon generations could live. How do you live your life to show gratitude for the ransom paid?

Luke 24:13-35

  • What does it mean to have your heart burn within you? Have you ever experienced this feeling? Revisit the memory. Does reminiscing about the experience ignite the flame within you?
  • Identify a person or people you are on the “road” with on your faith journey.
  • What do you think Jesus was thinking as He walked along listening to the conversation? Do you think it made Him mad they didn’t recognize Him?

General Questions for Journaling

  • How does the resurrection of Jesus change your life, your faith, your attitude, your actions?
  • What is the path of life? Is it the same or different for everyone? Explain.
  • What opportunities do you have to break bread with Jesus?
  • What in these readings give you a deeper understanding of Jesus’ existence BEFORE He walked on the earth?
  • Is there anything that confuses you? Who, what or where do you turn in order to set yourself straight?
  • Are there people in your life with whom you love to spend time with? How do you feel when you have to leave them?
  • Where can be Jesus be found in your relationships? With your spouse? Your children? Your peers? A stranger? 
  • What do you hope for? What do you have hope in? Do you have anything in which you have lost hope?
  • How do you feel when you run into an old friend you haven’t seen for a while? Is there someone you should reach out to?
  • What does the cross say to you? What emotions are attached to the cross?
  • What obstacles of faith do you see in the world? What obstacles do you encounter? What do/can you do?
  • Share an “ah-ha” moment when you went from not seeing Jesus in a situation and then suddenly saw Him. This could also be a moment when you saw a truth revealed about Jesus that you didn’t know or your perspective changed.

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Draw me near

ALL:  to listen for Your voice.

Leader:  Draw me near

ALL:  to follow Your call.

Leader:  Draw me near

ALL:  to the acceptance of Your embrace.

Leader:  Draw me near

ALL:  to the promises of Your love.

Leader:  Draw me near

ALL:  to Your joyful presence.

Leader:  Draw me near

ALL:  to an intimate relationship with YOU!

Challenge for the Week:  The disciples didn’t recognize Jesus as He was walking and talking with them.  How often do we pass Jesus by without recognizing Him in our own lives?  This week, as you get ready for bed, spend time reflecting on your day and where Jesus was present.  Sometimes we can see Him working in others toward us or through us toward others.  As you reflect, really pay attention to the multiple things you saw, heard or felt throughout the day.  Dig deeper to find God not only on the surface but in the little things…God spends a lot of time on the small details!

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, April 16th Readings

Second Sunday of Easter/Sunday of Divine Mercy

Opening Prayer (Psalm 118)

Alleluia!  Alleluia!

Give thanks and praise to God!

For he is good and his love is everlasting!

Rejoice and be glad for our Savior lives!

Alleluia!  Alleluia!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 2:42-47

  • What do you think is the “secret ingredient” in this scripture passage that makes it sound like utopia?
  • The scripture passage says twice, “they devoted themselves to…”, is there something in your life right now which needs your devotion?  How can devoting your time and attention to that project/person/situation bring peace and/or contentment?

1Peter 1:3-9

  • Share and example of how you know this scripture is true. 
  • This scripture are the words of Saint Peter, he who denied Jesus thrice before the crucifixion.  How does this knowledge open up the scripture even more?  Choose one phrase of the scripture that most shouts of Peters new found confidence.

John 20:19-31

  • Can you relate to Thomas?  Would you need to see and feel the nail marks in Jesus’ hands to believe?  What helps you believe today?
  • Jesus brings peace and the Holy Spirit to the disciples.  Identify where Jesus brings you peace and the Holy Spirit today.
  • Jesus breathes on the disciples…where have you heard this before in the scripture?  What do the passages have in common?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Do you see signs and wonders in the world today?  How do they point to God?
  • Where do you see people working together?  How does it inspire you and is there something you can do to support it?
  • Describe what it feels like to have “favor” on someone or something from your own perspective.  Then describe what is it like for someone to have “favor” or show “favor” to/on you.
  • How do you know someone is acting out of sincerity? 
  • How do you feel safeguarded by God? 
  • Name a specific example of how Jesus’ resurrection affects your life right now.
  • What do you love about Jesus?  Be specific.  Can you name more than three things?
  • What does ‘genuine’ faith look like?  Do you know when you are being genuine in your faith vs. being fake?
  • Are there things in your life right now which you find hard to believe because you haven’t see them?  Does this unbelief cause division with your family or co-workers?
  • How do you know when Jesus is in your midst?  Describe the feeling.  How can you reproduce this feeling to last all day?  Is it possible?  Explain
  • The “great commission” is said to happen at our baptism (MT 28:19-20) but these scripture readings have the same kind of commissioning feel.  Choose one thing from the scriptures this week to take on as your task.

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Jesus, the doors were locked

ALL:  but you broke through!

Leader:  Jesus, you died and were buried

ALL:  but you broke through!

Leader:  Jesus, you were nailed to a cross

ALL:  but you broke through!

Leader:  Jesus, you were beaten and bleeding

ALL:  but you broke through!

Leader:  Jesus, you were a Carpenter’s son 

ALL:  but you broke through!

Leader:  Jesus, you were born in a manger

ALL:  but you broke through!

Challenge for the Week:  Saint Peter in the second reading says “you rejoice with indescribable and glorious joy, as you attain the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.” (1PT1:9)  Take time this week to map out the goal of your faith.  What are your goals?  Write them down so you can see them and then set out to achieve them.  Do you want to know Jesus more (not just know of him, but really know him).  Do you want to have a prayer space in your home?  Do you wish to learn more about the Saints?  Do you want to read more spiritual literature?  God doesn’t say we have to do anything to earn his love, grace or mercy but if you are like me, when someone does something unbelievably kind, I want to give back to them to show my gratitude!

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!

Holy Thursday

Opening Prayer

I will call upon the Lord

          and He shall answer!

I shall give thanks and praise

          for all the Lord has done!

Alleluia!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Exodus 12:1-8,11-14

  • Do you hide Christ in your life?  In your conversations?  In your home?  What can you do to reveal him?
  • How do others know you are a Christian?

1Corinthians 11:23-26

  • When you hear these words at prayed during the Eucharistic Celebration of Mass, who do you invite to the table with you?
  • What do the words, “do this in remembrance of me” mean to you?

John 13:1-15

  • Jesus says, “Do you know what I have done for you?”  He isn’t only speaking to the disciples when he says to go and do what he has taught us…identify 2-3 things you will do this Easter Season to follow Jesus’ example.
  • Jesus knows his disciples will scatter in fear, what do you think allows him to stay and celebrate the Passover meal with his friends and wash their feet?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Shown in hospitality;

ALL:  love as I have loved.

Leader:  Shown in compassion;

ALL:  love as I have loved.

Leader:  Shown in sacrifice;

ALL:  love as I have loved.

Leader:  Jesus…

ALL:  you have shown us how to love!

Challenge for the Week:  It is common practice for Jesus to be placed at the altar at the end of Holy Thursday’s Mass for the faithful to stay and participate in what in the Catholic Church is called Adoration.  This time is set aside specifically for us to practice in real time “staying awake” for Jesus while he is in the Garden of Gethsemane praying before he is arrested.  Regular practice is for this to last until Midnight and then Jesus is removed to imitate how he had been taken into custody; no longer at our side.  This Thursday, set aside an hour to be with Jesus.  You choose how you will spend the time, for example, in silence or by praying the Rosary or by lighting candles or writing prayer or drawing a mandala; it is your choice how to spend this specific hour with your Savior. 

Sunday, April 9th Readings

Easter Sunday

Opening Prayer

Jesus

You died to bring me live

You became nothing

          So I could become whole

May I die to the sin

          that keeps me away from you

So I might live

          in the fullness You promised!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 10:34a, 37-43

  • How has your baptism and the renewal of your baptismal promises brought good news to others?
  • Who in your life inspires or helps to ignite your faith?

Colossians 3:1-4

  • How do you rise like Christ this Easter season? 
  • Are there things you have shed through your Lenten sacrifice of which you are free?

John 20:1-9

  • What does this scripture reveal about Jesus?  About his disciples?
  • What do you take away from this scripture?  What do you feel?  What do you imagine this looks like?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Has the journey of Lent helped to strengthen your faith?  How?
  • Did you gain a new perspective on a problem or struggle you have in your life right now through prayer, almsgiving and/or fasting?  Share.
  • What have you heard this Lent in the scriptures or through discussion with others which you have shared with another person?
  • What has inspired you to bear witness to your faith over the past six weeks? 
  • Is there anything you are looking forward to during the Easter season? 
  • How can you make the joy of Easter last longer than one day?
  • Are there things you can continue to work on (using prayer, almsgiving and fasting as your guide) for the next six weeks? Why do these Lenten practices have to only be practiced during Lent?
  • Is there a problem or struggle you are dealing with which you need to step away from? Perhaps find a new perspective or revisit a solution which had been previously rejected?
  • Are you carrying around “dead weight” such as hurt feelings or a burden that is not yours to carry? 
  • Do you hide Christ in your life? In your conversations? In your home?  What can you do to reveal him?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  What was hidden;

ALL:  has been revealed!

Leader:  What was broken;

ALL:  has been healed!

Leader:  What was lost;

ALL:  has been found!

Leader:  What was sin;

ALL:  has been forgiven!

Leader:  What was buried; 

ALL:  has come to life!

Leader:  What was crucified;

ALL:  has been resurrected!

Challenge for the Week:  Jesus was believed to be dead.  The disciples buried him in a tomb.  After three days his broken body was healed and he was radiant.  Imagine you could go away for three days and get away from any pressures, stress and obligations.  What would you do?  How would you spend your time?  How would you pamper yourself to relieve stress?  What conversations would you have with God about your life?  Take time for a mini retreat, even if it is only for 5 minutes to step away from your life and let the joy of Easter and Jesus’ resurrection spark a renewal within!

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, May 29th Readings

7th Sunday of Easter

Opening Prayer

Open my heart Lord

        so it may be filled with love for my neighbors

Open my lips Lord

        so they may speak the Good News to others

Open my arms Lord

        so they may reach out to those who need YOU!

Open my heart, lips and arms

        to be at witness of YOUR WORD!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 7 :55-60

  • How is what happened to Stephen in this scripture like what Jesus experienced?
  • When have you seen this type of behavior happen in the world today?  What was the situation?

Revelation 22:12-14,16-17,20

  • Draw a picture to represent the image in this scripture.
  • How does this scripture make you feel?  How does it affect your faith?  What does it tell you about God?

John 17:20-26

  • How is God speaking to you in this scripture? What simple message does it speak to all believers?
  • Does something stir inside as you read this scripture? How are you being lead to move? What is God asking you to do?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Are rules, laws and guidelines necessary? Why or why not?
  • How do you achieve peace of mind? Is it possible to find peace of mind?  Describe.
  • How open are you to speaking about your faith? Whom do you speak freely with and with whom do you withhold?
  • What would be the reaction of coworkers, family, or friends if you stood up to witness your belief in Jesus?
  • Do those you spend the most time with know the depth of your faith? Do you know theirs? Why or why not?
  • Have you ever sacrificed something in your life for your faith? What was it? Did you ever regain it or did you leave it behind for good?
  • Identify how your faith fills you or satisfies you? How can you share this feeling with others who don’t understand faith?
  • Where did you first learn about the faith? When did you understand God’s love? Who shared it with you? How do you continue to pass these lessons onto others to enjoy?
  • If you drew a picture of yourself and colored in the amount of you Jesus lives in, how much of you would be colored? Would it be all the same color or shades of colors? What resides in the space(s) Jesus doesn’t?
  • Identify the moment(s) when you have felt the most “full” of Christ? What did/does it feel like?
  • Describe how God is the beginning and the end, the alpha and the omega, the first and the last.
  • How do you pray for others? Are they prayers for deeper faith? Who needs these types of prayers? Write a prayer for them.
  • How do you live in God and God live in you? Be specific.
  • What does Jesus promise? How is it fulfilled?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lift my eyes to heaven

ALL:  to see the beauty of each new day

Leader:  Lift my eyes to heaven

ALL:  to find calm even in the storm

Leader:  Lift my eyes to heaven

ALL:  to seek you in those I encounter

Leader:  Lift my eyes to heaven

ALL:  to receive the gifts I need

Leader:  Lift my eyes to heaven

ALL:  to be a witness of all You came to give!

Challenge for the Week:  Pay attention this week to the conversations going on in the world and make a list of the people witnessing to the truth they believe.  Use this list to really look at what is being said and how you are influenced by it.  How much of what you hear around you is positive? Negative? Actual facts or fabricated and twisted to fit a specific argument?  Make a conscious effort to look to heaven as you hear these witnesses to help determine or confirm the words are true.  When you look to heaven, you gain a clearer sense of who you are and what your purpose is in the world.  Look up!

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

Sunday, May 22nd Readings

6th Sunday of Easter

Opening Prayer

Holy Spirit

Come

Stir up the dust

Ignite our faith

Remain

Holy Spirit

Amen!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 15:1-2, 22-29

  • Are rules, laws and guidelines necessary? Why or why not?
  • How do you achieve peace of mind? Is it possible to find peace of mind?

Revelation 21:10-14, 22-23

  • Draw a picture to represent the image in this scripture.
  • How does this scripture make you feel? How does it affect your faith?  What does it tell you about God?

John 14:23-29

  • How is God speaking to you in this scripture? What simple message does it speak to all believers?
  • Does something stir inside as you read this scripture? How are you being lead to move?  What is God asking you to do?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Why is it important for people to question?
  • What good comes from debate? What bad?
  • How do you determine when to share your opinion and when to hold back?
  • On a scale from 1-10, how open are you to others opinions? Do you allow people to take over and do what they want or do you stick to what you know is right and work to expand their view?
  • Would you say you are a good listener? Share at least one example of how you were a good listener this week.
  • Where have you seen “light” today? Was it a single ray of light or blinding light?
  • How have you allowed the Holy Spirit to direct your decisions today?
  • How important is peace in relationship with faith? What is the relationship?
  • Do you always seek advice or do you go alone? What is the value of advice? How is it determined to be good or bad advice?
  • Can you tell if someone is being led by the Holy Spirit? How?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Dwell in me

ALL:  so I might have understanding

Leader:  Dwell in me

ALL:  so I might have wisdom

Leader:  Dwell in me

ALL:  so I might have right judgment

Leader:  Dwell in me

ALL:  so I might have courage

Leader:  Dwell in me

ALL:  so I might have knowledge

Leader:  Dwell in me

ALL:  so I might have reverence

Leader:  Dwell in me

ALL:  so I might be in awe of YOU and all you have created!

Challenge for the Week:  Today, when you hear the word the debate, you might give it a negative value because it is equated to the public political debates where the candidates spend too much time boosting up their good traits and pointing out their opponents’ negative qualities.  So often when people enter into a debate, they are closed off to another idea or opinion when the very definition of a debate is a formal discussion of different opinions.  This week, reflect on the relationships in your life and determine if there is anyone with whom you are in conflict because of differing opinions.  Are you closed off to their opinion?  Do you believe you are right, beyond measure?  Consider if it is pride which keeps you from being open to another opinion and if it is, how would a little bit of humility change the situation?

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

Sunday, May 15th Readings

5th Sunday of Easter

Opening Prayer

Generous Lord,

There is no limit to your love!

You come to me

and lead me to safety when I encounter danger.

You embrace me

and give me comfort when I stumble and fall.

You open the gate

and usher me through even when I turn away.

May I learn from YOUR generosity

and be more generous in my own life!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 14:21-27

  • Paul and Barnabas opened doors of faith to others; what doors do you open?
  • Who are the gentiles in the world today who need to hear God’s Word from you?

Revelation 21:1-5a

  • Describe how God has made things new in your experiences? What specifically was done?
  • What does it mean that “God’s dwelling is with the human race”? How is this lived out in the world?

John 13:31-33a, 34-35

  • How do you let God work through you? Do you believe you can work a miracle?
  • Where have you shared God’s love? Where have you received it?

General Questions for Journaling

  • How is faith expressed in your home? Is it the same or different than how you express your faith personally?
  • What traditions do you have in your family which flow from your faith?
  • Are there traditions you have in your family which you could tweak to add an element of faith?
  • How does your faith carry with you when you travel? Is it something you pack with you or do you leave it behind?
  • What are some of the things that make loving your neighbor so difficult? What stands in the way? How can you work to break down the obstacle(s)?
  • Where do you see examples of God’s selfless love? How has it been modelled for you?
  • When was the last time you did something with expectation? Where do you share God’s selfless love?
  • Where can you inspire positive change? How much effort would it take? Are there others who can help you?
  • How do you define the human race? What is human? Why race? Where is God in the definition?
  • Does God need to increase or decrease in your life? How does this happen?
  • Faith is like a bumper sticker on your soul. What does your bumper sticker say?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, may I proclaim Your love

ALL:  to each person I meet!

Leader:  Lord, may I proclaim Your patience

ALL:  to each person I meet!

Leader:  Lord, may I proclaim Your forgiveness

ALL:  to each person I meet!

Leader:  Lord, may I proclaim Your generosity

ALL:  to each person I meet!

Leader:  Lord, may I proclaim Your acceptance

ALL:  to each person I meet!

Leader:  Lord, may I proclaim the Good News

ALL:  to each person I meet!

Challenge for the Week:  The warmer weather opens the door to get outside and enjoy creation. However, schedules often get busier during the springtime too.  There are family gatherings and celebrations (Easter, First Communion, Confirmation, Mother’s Day, Graduation) and a rash of other commitments which keep your mind and body from slowing down and remembering that God is God and you are not.  It is easy to get sucked up into a tornado of bitterness and resentment forgetting what a gift each of these activities bring.  Psalm 145 is the perfect reminder that life has been dormant all winter (and through Lent), now is the time to step up and show God appreciation for all He has given!  Resist the temptation to fill each hour with activity and slow down to allow God to love you, be reminded of God’s goodness.  Imagine how a little bit of time with God to refresh your soul can change your attitude!  This week, spend time with Psalm 145, take it piece by piece, let it soak into you and allow the Words to become one with your flesh.  Then you will be ready to share God’s goodness with everyone you encounter!

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

Sunday, May 8th Readings

4th Sunday of Easter

Opening Prayer

Shepherd

Open my ears so I can clearly hear you when you call.

Let me follow you!

Open my eyes so I can clearly see you and come to save me when I am lost.

Let me follow you!

Open my heart so I can clearly know it is you who brings me comfort when I am weary.

Let me follow you!

Come, Good Shepherd, lead me on!

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 13:14, 43-52

  • Where do you go to “preach” the Word of God? How are you welcomed?
  • How do you bring “light” to others? Is it always welcome? Has it ever been rejected? Share the experience.

Revelation 7:9, 14b-17

  • Describe how God satisfies hunger. Has God satisfied a hunger in your life? Reflect on how this experience can help others.
  • Has God ever wiped away your tears? What was the circumstance? How do you know it was God?

John 10:27-30

  • What does God’s voice sound like? How is it different than other voices?
  • Is it easy to listen and follow God’s voice? Why or why not?

General Questions for Journaling

  • How do you act when you are faced with opposition? What do you think? How do you feel?
  • When faced with conflict, what is a good way to handle it and what is a not so good way? Think of actual situations when you were dealing with conflict and identify your actions as good and not so good.
  • Are there people or groups whom you reject because they have different views than you? Do you think it is possible to find common ground? What keeps you from finding a compromise?
  • Is there someone you know who needs comforting? What can you do to give them what they need?
  • Where do you see justice in the world? What do you to support it?
  • What do you hunger for? For what do you thirst? How do you search for satisfaction?
  • How is God leading you today? Have you stopped to listen for HIS voice?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, YOU are my Comforter

ALL:  YOU pick me up when I am down.

Leader:  Lord, YOU are my safety

ALL:  YOU protect me from harm.

Leader:  Lord, YOU are my strength

ALL:  YOU fill me with what I need.

Leader:  Lord, YOU are my healer

ALL:  YOU mend me when I am broken.

Leader:  Lord, YOU are my companion

ALL:  YOU are with me when I am alone.

Leader:  Lord, YOU are my Shepherd

ALL:  YOU lead me to my eternal home.

Challenge for the Week:  What are the qualities of a good leader?  What do you value in a leader, teacher, guide?  Are these qualities universally good or are they only what you value?  Make a list of the qualities you value in a leader and consider if there is anything missing?  Do you have any of these qualities?  Why does having these qualities make someone a good leader?  What can you do to nurture some of the good qualities in your life?  Are there people who look to you as a leader?  What do they see in you as good qualities to follow?

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