Easter

Sunday, May 1st Readings

3rd Sunday of Easter

Opening Prayer

Savior God

I cry out Lord, Lord

and you answer my plea.

In my darkest hour,

YOU come to me

YOU give me comfort

because YOU know what it feels like to suffer.

May I sing YOUR praises forevermore

My Lord, my Deliverer, my Redeemer!

Amen!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 5:27-32, 40b-41

  • Have you ever been confronted about a wrongdoing? What was the situation and how was it resolved?
  • How does it feel to be accused of something whether you did it or didn’t do it? Are the feelings similar or different? Explain.

Revelation 5:11-14

  • Describe how the universe cries out to give God glory.
  • What can you do to show glory and give honor to God today? Be specific.

John 21:1-19 or 21:1-14

  • Are you seeking Jesus? Where do you look? Is your search easy or difficult?
  • John recognized Jesus on the shore; where do you see Jesus today?
  • Jesus cooks breakfast on the shore for His friends; how can you express your love to your family and friends without expectation?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Are there teachings in the church which you don’t talk about because you don’t understand them? What keeps you from learning about these things?
  • What is your favorite thing about your faith? How do you know it is your favorite?
  • Where do you feel most comfortable sharing your faith? With whom do you share it? How can you stretch your reach a little this week?
  • When have you gone against the law? Why did you? Did you get caught?  Were there consequences suffered? Would you do it again?
  • Do you have a “pain plan” on how to deal with suffering or loss in your life? These experiences are inevitable, how can you prepare yourself to be able to get through the hard times?
  • How could you being prepared to deal with your pain help others?
  • What are you doing to keep Easter alive in your life right now?
  • Where is God calling you to care for others? How are you called to care for others?
  • Have you missed your call or are you already living it out and need to be renewed in your passion?

Closing Prayer

Leader: Lord, you await me on the seashore

ALL:  to welcome me onto solid ground!

Leader:  Lord, you await me on the seashore

ALL:  to give me a warm embrace!

Leader:  Lord, you await me on the seashore

ALL:  to help satisfy my needs!

Leader:  Lord, you await me on the seashore

ALL:  to share with me our daily bread!

Leader:  Lord, you await me on the seashore

ALL: to remind me of my call!

Leader:  Lord, you await me on the seashore

ALL:  to restore my faith!

Challenge for the Week:  Each and every person suffers at one time or another. At some time or another, you will make sacrifices for another person, for your job or for your health.  These sacrifices of time or money, for the sake of another person can become a point of contention for some people and they make sure everyone knows that they made this or these sacrifices either for your sake or for the sake of someone else.  It can be worn as a badge of honor or a brought up as a reminder to show power.  Sometimes the sacrifices made just sound like complaints or regrets.

Consider if Jesus took this same attitude of complaining or regretting the sacrifice He made when dying on the cross. It is something to reflect upon, to make sure that the sacrifices you make on behalf of another person are not used as leverage in your relationship, rather the sacrifices are made out of love. You never hear of Jesus complaining about His suffering or how sacrificing His life for the good of all people was a mistake. 

Instead, you see Jesus modeling what to do when you are suffering or sacrificing yourself, and that is to turn towards God in the midst of His suffering.  God cannot remove the pain, but He will sit there with you through it. The pain Jesus had to go through and His sacrificing Himself had to happen so that the resurrection could happen!  It is an example of how good can come from sacrifice.  How might your life be different if Jesus didn’t go through the pain of Good Friday in order to restore humanity by raising from the dead at Easter?

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 of Divine Mercy – 2nd Sunday of Easter

Sunday, April 24th Readings

Opening Prayer

Lord Jesus

I know the wounds are real

when I look at people suffering.

I feel the pain of injustice

when I see malnourishment.

The scars aren’t always visible

but I know they are there.

Move me to be the hands, feet and heart

…that bring comfort

…that bring justice

…that bring peace

May the joy of the resurrection

bring healing to a hurting world!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 5:12-16

  • Do you know someone who needs to be healed? How can you bring them comfort?
  • How does God’s message heal you?

Revelation 1:9-11a, 12-13, 17-19

  • When have you needed strength to overcome? Where did the strength come from?  Who gave it to you?
  • Why are people afraid of the unknown? What makes it scary?

John 20:19-31

  • Jesus breathes the Holy Spirit unto the disciples and they are moved into action, how does the Holy Spirit move you into action? How long has it been since you let the Holy Spirit move you?
  • What makes you believe in the resurrection? Does Thomas’ testimony help you believe?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Where do you see signs that God is alive today?
  • Have you ever witnessed a miracle? Explain/Describe.
  • How many times in a day, week, month, or year do you believe a miracle happens?
  • Define love. Make a list of all the things you love.
  • Is there only one type of love or many? How many types of love can you identify? What are the characteristics of each kind of love?
  • Can good come from suffering? Can you share an example?
  • Is suffering necessary? Why or why not?
  • What causes you fear?
  • Have you ever been paralyzed by fear? What was the circumstance?
  • How is fear overcome? What do you do to conquer your fear? What advice do you give to others on how to overcome their own fears, ex. a child and the monster in the closet?
  • Do you think people fear forgiveness? Why or why not?
  • Where is peace found? How does someone find it?

Closing Prayer

Leader: Lord, in my weakness

ALL:  YOU are strong!

Leader:  Lord, in my questioning

ALL:  YOU are the answer!

Leader:  Lord, in my sin

ALL:  YOU are forgiveness!

Leader:  Lord, in my struggle

ALL:  YOU are calm!

Leader:  Lord, in my confusion

ALL: YOU are clarity!

Leader:  Lord, in mt life

ALL:  YOU are the WAY!

Challenge for the Week:  Easter is the biggest Christian celebration and sign of our faith.  It is so important it lasts for 50 days which is longer than Advent (4 weeks before Christmas) and Lent (40 days before Easter).  How can you continue to live the Easter message for the next 50 days?  What message do you feel God is calling you to send?  Is there an injustice you can serve by volunteering your time?  Is there a person in need of support or company?  Where can you bring resurrection or new life?  Take this Easter season as seriously as you do your Lenten sacrifice and spread the Good News that Jesus is alive!!!

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

Holy Saturday Prayer Guide

Easter Vigil/Holy Saturday

Opening Prayer

Lord

I am confident, yet afraid.

I put my trust in You, my soul rests.

I shall sing Your praises all my days.

You have overcome the darkness

          and bring me new life! Alleluia!

Reflection Questions

1st Reading – Genesis 1:1 – 2:2

  • The story of creation is often thought of to be a children’s story, but it is even more for adults.  What did you hear this year which you have not heard before?  Sometimes when you know a story so well, you don’t listen as closely.  Listen again for the message God wants you to hear today.
  • Create your own creation scene, draw and color while you meditate on the gifts each day of creation brings and give thanks to the Creator!

2nd Reading – Genesis 22:1-18

  • On a scale from 1-10, how confident are you to respond, “Here I am, Lord” when God calls you?
  • How do you think God celebrates when you listen and obey his commands?

3rd Reading – Exodus 14:15 – 15:1

  • What does this scripture story mean to you?  What does it tell you about God and His relationship with the Israelite’s?
  • How does God use Moses?  Do you believe He can use you in a similar way?  Explain.

4th Reading – Isaiah 54:5-14

  • Does this scripture bring you comfort and confidence or does it leave you concerned and in doubt?  Explain the difference and be specific.  What other words would you use to describe how this scripture makes you feel?
  • What is the ultimate message God’s trying to communicate through this scripture?

5th Reading – Isaiah 55:1-11

  • Share one way God has provided for you in the past week.  Was it something you asked for and received or was it something God did without you even acknowledging it?
  • What keeps you from having 100% confidence in God providing your needs?  Is it because his timing is different than your own or is it something else?

6th Reading – Baruch 3:9-15,32 – 4:4

  • Identify where you see God’s splendor.  What do these places/things say to you when you are in their presence?
  • Describe the feelings you get when you listen to or read the words of this scripture.  What do you imagine?  Can you put it into words?

7th Reading – Ezekiel 36:16-17a,18-28

  • Where does the myth that ‘people who follow God do not suffer’ come from? Even God’s people in the Old Testament had to suffer loss, devastation and hardships.  How does this make you feel?
  • What is the purpose of God giving us a ‘new heart’, what does this mean?

Epistle – Romans 6:3-11

  • What images and/or feelings come to mind when you hear the word BAPTISM.
  • How do you plan to continue to live out your baptism?  Does the renewal of baptismal promises give you a boost of energy and purpose, why or why not?

Gospel Reading – Matthew 28:1-10

  • Are there people in your life whom you cannot celebrate the glory of the resurrection with because of unbelief or difference of beliefs?  How can you still bring the glory of the resurrection to those you love without judgment or shame?
  • How do you anticipate you will react when you see Jesus face to face?  Can you imagine the scenario?  Describe in detail what happens.

Closing Prayer

Leader:  God’s mercy endures forever…

ALL:  Alleluia!

Leader:  What wondrous deeds God has done..

ALL:  Alleluia!

Leader:  Give thanks for God is good…

ALL:  Alleluia!

Leader:  You shall not die, but live forever…

ALL:  Alleluia!

Challenge for Good Friday:  You think you have had a tough week; what about Jesus, Mary and the Disciples!  In the Church, Holy Week is one of the most important times of ritual and tradition. It is a series of ups and downs, back to back to back to back. Each day, beginning with Holy Thursday has specific elements which need to be present in order to make the celebration meaningful. 

Planning for these four days and potentially five, six or seven separate services, begins almost immediately after the Christmas Season comes to an end. Those who work in the church basically go directly from planning the celebration of Jesus’ birth to getting things prepared for his death. The planning and preparation to make the celebration of the Triduum stand out validates their importance in the Church and for those who follow Jesus.

These three days impact deeply the relationship you have with God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Through the celebrations, the journey of Jesus is brought to life for all the faithful to experience with their whole heart, soul and mind. Even if you only attend the Easter Sunday service, the power and beauty of God’s love is revealed for each and every person there. The goal being to inspire all.  

Whether you gather in a community for these celebrations in person or virtually, the goal for all is to connect with God more deeply. The celebration of each day of the Triduum brings deeper understanding of not only God but of yourself and your relationship with others. When you dive into them, you are more likely to feel the joy of the resurrection and be inspired by it. Although the scripts of each day do not change, you are a different person each year you hear the stories. You may hear something new or hear it in a different way, coming to understand more clearly God’s plan for you. What do you hear God saying to you now? How has the Triduum inspired you this year?

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, April 17th Readings

EASTER SUNDAY

Opening Prayer

Savior

Each new day brings

new promise

Even when it is dark

and cold and rugged

The path to YOU

is filled with opportunity

To walk with YOU

is a great adventure!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 10:34, 37-43

  • How is your life a witness to all God has accomplished through Jesus’ birth, teachings, miracles, parables, suffering, death, and resurrection? Reflect and see if you can come up with an example of how each experience has been lived out in your life. Allow God to speak to you through each reflection.
  • Identify your source of strength when you witness (testify) to God’s love, mercy, forgiveness, etc.

Colossians 3:1-4

  • How have you died to allow God to live?
  • What about heaven do you most long for? Describe what you will see, feel, hear, touch and smell.

John 20:1-9

  • Can you relate to the fear the women and the disciples had when they saw the tomb open? Share a specific experience and how it affects your perspective.
  • What makes you believe in Jesus’ resurrection? How do you believe in what you have not seen?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Reflect on your Lent. What is one theme or similar reoccurrence that happened; what can you learn from the experience? What might God want you to learn? Could God have made you witness to these situations in order to communicate with you? What message are you called to carry through Easter?
  • What is it about Jesus that you love? Be specific and explain your answer.
  • Where do you turn when you are seeking an answer to a decision or facing a hard choice? Where is Jesus in the decision-making process?
  • How do you hide your faith from others? Who are those whom you hide your faith from and why? Are the people whom you hide your faith the ones who most need to hear the message?
  • Draw a picture of your heart. What does it look like? What does it contain? Use your imagination to create an image of the condition of your heart.
  • Where do you see compassion lived out in the world, your community, your family? From your view is compassion in a draught season or a harvest season? Give an example.
  • Does compassion come easy for you or is it something you work hard to share? What is the difference?
  • Where have you experienced compassion this Lent? Did this experience bring you closer to God? Why or why not?
  • Describe what it means to be at peace.
  • How has your Lenten experience helped you prepare for the Triduum?
  • What fear has kept you from experiencing Lent fully? Be specific.
  • How did what you gave up or took on this Lent help you to grow in relationship with Jesus? How did it help you to grow in relationship with others? How has it changed you?

Closing Prayer

Leader: May I surrender myself

ALL:  for the sake of the Gospel.

Leader:  May I pursue justice

ALL:  for the sake of the Gospel.

Leader:  May I seek and give reconciliation

ALL:  for the sake of the Gospel.

Leader:  May I turn away from sin

ALL:  for the sake of the Gospel.

Leader:  May I relinquish my own will

ALL:  for the sake of the Gospel.

Leader:  May I open the tomb within

ALL:  and live out the Gospel!

Challenge for the Week:  This week try to keep count of the positive things you witness and use your words and actions to encourage those who displayed the behavior. Then try to use the examples you “witnessed” to be a “witness” (testify) to the good you saw in others. It could be something as simple as sharing how you saw someone open and hold the door for another, witnessed a simple act of kindness or charity, or were witness to an act of mercy or forgiveness. It is easy to get complacent after surviving Lent and Holy Week. This challenge can help you keep your focus on the goodness of God and not be tempted by evils in the world and slide into thinking of yourself first. Remember, the disciples didn’t stand still once they discovered the tomb was open. They went out and began to spread the Good News, being witness of all Jesus came to share. This Easter, allow Jesus’ light to shine through your words and actions!

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 16th Readings

Ascension Sunday

Opening Prayer

Lord

You know my thoughts and you still love me;

       may my thoughts be good and true!

You know my actions and you still call me your own;

       may my actions be loving and forgiving!

Make my thoughts and actions more like you

       so I may go out and speak the Gospel!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 1:1-11

  • Share a time when you had Jesus in your midst.
  • Does the message the men in white had for the disciples ring true for you today?
  • How do you know the Holy Spirit is with you? Where does it come from?

Ephesians 1:17-23

  • What do you hope for? What gives hope? Where does it come from? How does it change one’s perspective when they have it?
  • How do you know if the Spirit is near? Is with you?
  • What name do you give God? Jesus? Holy Spirit? Do they respond when you call them by name? Share an example.

Mark 16:15-20

  • What does it mean to you to be a Baptized Christian? Do you identify yourself as being baptized or having been baptized? Is there a difference?
  • Do you believe there is power in Jesus’ name? When have you experienced power in the name of Jesus? What happened? How were you changed?
  • How do you think it felt for the disciples to lose Jesus a second time? How was this time different? How was this time the same?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Describe the Holy Spirit.
  • What does your baptism have to do with the Holy Spirit? How does the Holy Spirit affect your baptism?
  • How does knowing the Holy Spirit change your perspective on life? Situations? Struggles? Blessings?
  • How do you know the Spirit is near? Is with you?
  • Where do you look for God? In the sky? In the blessings? How does this limit God’s power?
  • Do you believe in heaven? Why or why not? Do you believe this is where God/Jesus can be found? Explain.
  • Explain why God is exalted? What does this mean?
  • Give an example of someone who has grown in faith? What are the symptoms/signs that your faith has grown?
  • What characteristics does a person who is “full of faith” have? By your definition, how do you compare?
  • How does God call you to share the Good News?
  • What message are you here to share? All of the Gospel or just a piece of it?
  • What signs or miracles do you see today? 
  • Have you been a witness of a modern day miracle? Explain. 
  • Where do you believe God is most present?
  • Where do you believe God in needed most?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  May my heart be filled with compassion;

ALL:  Fill me O, Lord!

Leader:  May my eyes be filled with acceptance;

ALL:  Fill me O, Lord!

Leader:  May my hands be filled with help;

ALL:  Fill me O, Lord!

Leader:  May my minds be filled with non-judgment;

ALL:  Fill me O, Lord!

Leader:  May my spirit be filled with generosity;

ALL:  Fill me O, Lord!

Challenge for the Week:  Consider the qualifications of a person who follows God.  What would be the job description of a Disciple?  Would the description be different from the time the Apostles walked with Jesus vs today?  Why or why not?  Do you need to work for the church, be a priest or pastor in order to be closer to God or to be a Disciple?  Do you need to spend hours in prayer and reading scripture?  Must you do good works and deeds and help those who are marginalized in order to be considered as a Disciple?  Spend time this week really considering what a person in society today has that makes them a Disciple of God. 

Sunday, May 9th Readings

Sixth Sunday of Easter

Opening Prayer

Oh, Comforter

YOU reach out to us when we are lost and alone

YOU reach us when we are deep down and sinking

YOU save us from our afflictions and hurts

YOU save us even we don’t think we deserve it

Lord, come wrap us up in your love!!!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 10:25-26, 34-35, 44-48

  • What does it feel like to have the Holy Spirit poured upon you? How is it different or the same as having the Holy Spirit within you?
  • Have you ever been in the presence of someone whom you thought deserved honor and respect? How did you act? How did you show honor?
  • How does it make you feel that God’s love and the Holy Spirit is there for everyone?

1John 4:7-10

  • What did the world know about God before Jesus came? How is it the same and/or different from what you knew after Jesus lived on earth? How is it the same and/or different from what you experience now living with the Holy Spirit?
  • Does knowing God already died for your sin cause you to try to avoid sin or make you feel it is okay to sin?
  • When you think of God’s love, how does it feel? Describe it.

John 15:9-17

  • What challenges are presented when you try to love your neighbor as God commands?
  • Loving God with all your heart, mind and soul is poetic but challenging. How would you rate yourself in loving God in each of these areas?
  • What is the greatest thing you have learned from God???

General Questions for Journaling

  • Where does the Holy Spirit reside in your faith life?
  • How do you acknowledge or communicate with the Holy Spirit?
  • When considering your relationship with God, Jesus and the Holy Spirit, how do you divide your time with each person of the trinity? Is there one whom you rely more? Is there one whom you confide in or call out to more? Is there one you listen or follow the advice of more?
  • Are there people whom you know that you are surprised they are Christian? What makes this so?
  • Are there people whom you know that you are surprised they are NOT Christian? What makes this so?
  • Where do you find grace? Is it something you seek or something that comes to you?
  • When you love someone, do you always like them or the choices they make?  Does your love for them still exist in these situations?
  • What do you learn about God through Jesus?
  • What do you learn about God through the Holy Spirit?
  • How do you reveal God’s love for others? Is it on purpose?
  • Do you believe the gifts you have been given by God help you fulfill the purpose God has called you to? Why or why not?
  • How do the commandments affect your relationship with God?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Creator God, you have given me all I need…

ALL:  May my love for you deepen through nature

Leader:  Savior Jesus, your life shows me there will be times of trouble…

ALL:  May my love for you deepen through conflict

Leader:  Holy Spirit, with you I am complete…

ALL:  May my love for you deepen through relationship

Leader:  Mighty Trinity, you are in all things, at all times…

ALL:  May my love for you deepen throughout my life

Challenge for the Week:   When you chose someone to spend time with someone, what qualities do you look for in that person?  Are there people in the world which you admire and believe you would be great friends?  Are there people whom you’d prefer not to spend time?  In the Gospel, Jesus says he is your friend and that he chose you.  There must be some great things about you if Jesus is willing to die so He can continue to have a relationship with you!  Even further, those people whom you avoid spending time with have also been chosen by Jesus.  What can you do to be more welcoming and open to others? 

Sunday, May 2nd Readings

Fifth Sunday of Easter

Opening Prayer

Savior

The sacrifice YOU made on the cross

        is one sacrifice for all.

May the life I live reflect my gratitude

        for all YOU have done for me.

Fill me with YOUR Spirit so when I speak,

        all will understand that I am YOUR disciple!

Give me the words to boldly proclaim YOU are God alone,

        for I know with my whole heart I need nothing else!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 9:26-31

  • What made the disciples hesitant to accept Saul as Paul? Have you ever had a hard time accepting someone into your life?
  • What does it mean to walk in the fear of the Lord? How would you explain this to a non-believer?
  • Have you ever experienced a change like Saul/Paul?

1 John 3:18-24

  • How does God communicate to you so you know you are following his commandments and you are beloved?
  • Explain why a person’s actions speak louder than their words. How can you teach this lesson to another person?
  • Does it bring comfort or fear to know God knows your heart?

John 15:1-8

  • Give an example of what it means to “bear fruit” and explain how pruning can produce more fruit as it pertains to human relationships.
  • Draw a branch with leaves or a vine with grapes, imagine you are the branch or vine and the people whom you influence are the leaves or grapes.
  • In what condition are the leaves or the grapes? Are those relationships thriving or simply surviving?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Name three things in your life which you feel strongly enough about that you will stand up and defend?
  • Have you ever made a change in your life which was not accepted by those in your life?  Share.
  • On a scale from 1-10, how much do you trust the 5 most important people in your life?
  • On a scale from 1-10, how much do you trust the 5 most unimportant people in your life?
  • What are random acts of kindness?  Have you ever been a witness of one?
  • Have you ever told someone not to do something and then you do it?  Is there harm in doing this?  Why or why not?
  • Are there relationships you have which you should get separation from for good?  What makes these relationships harmful?
  • Are there relationships you should nurture more?  What makes these relationships you want to keep?
  • Share an example of how you know God/Jesus/Holy Spirit lives within you.
  • Share an example of a time when you saw God/Jesus/Holy Spirit within another person.

Closing Prayer

Leader:  It is YOU who gives us breath to breathe…

ALL:  YOU are the Vine; WE are the Branches!

Leader:  It is YOU who gives us sight to see…

ALL:  YOU are the Vine; WE are the Branches!

Leader:  It is YOU who unties us when we are bound…

ALL:  YOU are the Vine; WE are the Branches!

Leader:  It is YOU who takes our burdens when we are too weak…

ALL:  YOU are the Vine; WE are the Branches!

Leader:  It is YOU who give us life to live out the Gospel message…

ALL:  YOU are the Vine; WE are the Branches!

Challenge for the Week:  The story in the first reading is a situation many of us have encountered.  We have either been like Paul, someone who has made some change and are not accepted by those around us, either because they don’t believe we have changed or they are not comfortable with the change we have made.  Or we are the ones not welcoming someone or believing someone who has made a change.  This week reflect on the situation and determine how it might have had a different outcome, what are some of the things that could have happened differently?  We cannot go back and change the past but we can learn from it; learn from our mistakes and our successes so we know how to handle a similar situation in the future.  Take time to open your eyes to seeing in new ways!

Sunday, April 25th Readings

Fourth Sunday of Easter

Opening Prayer

Abba Father

I hear your voice

        and I follow.

I am comforted by

        the sound.

It is clear.

Lord, YOU are with me!

AMEN!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 4:8-12

  • Peter explains the significance of Jesus in this scripture.  In your own words, explain the significance of Jesus in your life or in the world.
  • Is Jesus the cornerstone of your life?  Give examples.

1 John 3:1-2

  • Compare and contrast your relationship with God as a father and a child.  Is this easy or difficult to do?  Explain.
  • Has Jesus revealed anything to you?  How will you/do you know when Jesus reveals a message to you?

John 10:11-18

  • What makes Jesus the “good” shepherd?  Can you list 5 things?  10?
  • For what are you willing to lay down your life?  A person?  A cause? 
  • In what way do you relate to the good shepherd?  Be specific.
  • Why is there only one shepherd?  What consequences or difficulties could arise if there were more than one?

General Questions for Journaling

  • When did you go out of your way to do a good thing for another person?  What was the occasion?
  • Does doing good for others come naturally for you or do you find yourself needing to work at it? 
  • What do you think causes kindness to others to come naturally or not?
  • Name some of the obstacles in your life right now.  What are you doing to overcome them or are you waiting for God or someone else to remove the obstacles or make it easier for you to overcome?
  • Do you know someone who doesn’t believe in Jesus?  What is their reason for not believing?  It is because they don’t know Him or is it something else?
  • What might be some reasons someone would not believe if Jesus?  If the elders of his time tried to discredit him, what are some things people today could say to try to discredit Jesus?
  • Have you ever been given responsibility for someone else’s possessions?  Did you care for them as though they were your own?  Why or why not?
  • How do you define love?  Is there one type of love or several?  If there is more than one, what are they types of love?
  • Describe the feeling of knowing you are loved.  What adjectives do you use to describe love?  Is your description the same as others?
  • Share a story of a time when you felt safe.  Describe the surroundings, the smells, what you saw and what you heard.

Closing Prayer

Leader:  The Lord calls my name…

ALL:  and I listen.

Leader:  The Lord calls my name…

ALL:  and I wait.

Leader: The Lord calls my name…

ALL:  and I surrender.

Leader:  The Lord calls my name…

ALL:  and I respond.

Leader:  The Lord calls my name…

ALL:  and I rejoice.

Leader:  The Lord calls my name…

ALL:  and I am complete!

Challenge for the Week:  Have you ever considered what kind of parent God is?  While there are only four specific parenting styles, there are several articles which highlight a variety of different types of parenting.  To name a few, there is a “drill sergeant parent” who commands and directs the lives of children.  There is the “oblivious parent” whom is not aware of or concerned about what is happening with their children.  Another nickname for a type of parent is the “MIA parent” which is as you’d assume correctly is a parent whom is not present at all.  One of the more popular types is the “helicopter parent” whom is overprotective and discourages a child’s independence by being too involved in the child’s life and swoops in at any sign of challenge or discomfort.  Does one of these types fit God?  Do you believe God parents each one of us in the same way?  What type of parent would you say God is?  What type of parent do you want God to be?  Spend time this week in reflection on the Father, God and give thanks and praise for all God’s grace!

Sunday, April 18th Readings

Third Sunday of Easter

Opening Prayer

Jesus

You don’t just ignore my sin.

        You help me to correct it.

You don’t just tell me to do better,

        You teach me the right way.

Let me learn from you

        so I can be a better person.

Praise You Lord

        for believing in me!

AMEN!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 3:13-15, 17-19

  • Peter is letting the people know that they can be forgiven for turning away from Jesus and sentencing him to death. Are your sins worse than this? If they can be forgiven what keeps you from being forgiven?
  • How does ignorance force a wedge in a person’s relationship with God? 
  • How does ignorance in the world affect a person’s relationship with God?

1 John 2:1-5a

  • This scripture is saying our sin goes through Jesus, his death is what makes amends for our sin…even the sin we haven’t committed yet. Write a prayer to express how you feel about his fact.
  • What makes Jesus the best advocate for us to God?

Luke 24:35-48

  • Go back to Isaiah to read the scriptures which Jesus fulfilled. How do you feel when you read the scriptures?
  • How have you witnessed God’s work, Jesus’ miracles today? What evidence do you have that Holy Spirit is alive today?
  • Jesus’ disciples had a hard time recognizing Jesus, what can you do to recognize Jesus when he comes to you?

General Questions for Journaling

  • What makes forgiveness difficult? What makes forgiveness easier?
  • In what ways are the faithful today the same as the first disciples?
  • In what ways are we different from those left behind after Jesus died?
  • What do you believe happened when Jesus died? Do you believe it is the same or different for other people? Explain.
  • What does it mean to leave your sins at the foot of the cross? How would you explain this to another person of faith? How would you explain this to someone who doesn’t know Jesus?
  • The things of this world can tug and pull on us, sometimes away from God. What are these things in your life? What makes you fall victim to them? 
  • Where is peace prevalent today?
  • Is peace something everyone can find in the same place? Explain.
  • What does it mean to have an open mind or a closed mind? Do different people have different definitions? Why or why not?
  • Would you describe yourself as open minded or closed minded? Why?
  • What is it about Jesus that you most relate to? Be specific.
  • Have you had moments of remembrances of loved ones who have passed? Explain.
  • How does Jesus’ death help you cope with death? Your own and others?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Jesus is alive, let me rejoice…

ALL:  All of my sins are washed away!

Leader:  Jesus is alive, let me rejoice…

ALL:  My path has been restored!

Leader: Jesus is alive, let me rejoice…

ALL:  He loves me like no other!

Leader:  Jesus is alive, let me rejoice…

ALL:  the Holy Spirit lives in me!

Leader:  Jesus is alive, let me rejoice…

ALL:  death has no power!

Leader:  Jesus is alive, let me rejoice…

ALL:  AMAZING GRACE!

Challenge for the Week:  In the Catholic Church Easter is not celebrated only on Easter Sunday, but for 50 days!  That is a lot of chocolate and marshmallows! Actually, it is not about the commercialized Easter as you may know, rather it’s about continuing to be in the presence of Jesus through the scriptures and special celebrations.  It is a time set aside by the Church, like Lent, for us to reflect on the life of Jesus, more specifically, life on earth after his death.  Spend time this next week reflecting on Jesus’ presence in your life and in the world.  How does Jesus impact your daily life?  Is the presence of Jesus a blessing or a curse?  How do you relate to the early Christians trying to decipher this new way of life without Jesus?  How are their struggles similar to different from those faced in the world today?  There is much to ponder…so Happy Easter!!!  Jesus has risen!!!

Sunday, April 11th Readings

Divine Mercy Sunday Readings

Opening Prayer

Heavenly Father,

You breathed into us at creation,

You sent YOUR Son to breathe with us,

You left YOUR Spirit to fill us with the breath of life.

May we show gratitude for this gift you have given

        so when we breathe in we are aware of you filling us!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 4:32-35

  • What specifically motivated the early Christians to act in this way?
  • Are there people you know who need something which you are unwilling to give? How can this scripture help you move towards giving?

1 John 5:1-6

  • Do you believe you love God in the same way God loves you? Why or why not?
  • The scripture says the commandments are not burdensome.  Do you agree or disagree?  How might one NOT find them burdensome?
  • Draw a picture of this scripture. How does this look to you? Is there a straight timeline of love or does it start with God in the middle and split off from there or is it a complete circle or something else entirely?

John 20:19-31

  • Are there sins (your own or others) which you are withholding forgiveness? What image or phrase from the scripture can you use to begin to let go of these sins you harbor?
  • What is the significance of Jesus breathing on the disciples and those gathered? How does this personally affect you and your life?
  • When have you, like Thomas doubted Jesus?  Perhaps it was doubt of His existence or doubt of His presence?

General Questions for Journaling

  • We can sometimes have a hard time sharing our possessions.  What lesson can we learn from those early Christians about our possessions?
  • Who are the needy around you?  Is there someone in need within your reach?  What can you do to help satisfy their need?
  • How does your life bear witness to Christ?
  • How does your church or place or worship bear witness to Christ?
  • How does/can your workplace/school bear witness to Christ?
  • How does your home/family bear witness to Christ?
  • How does love change?  Do you love a baby differently than a toddler or a teenager or an adult person?  Explain.
  • Does God’s love for us change based on our circumstances or actions?  Why or why not?  Does God ask for us to do anything to earn love from him?
  • Is there something about faith which you struggle with believing or agreeing? What action should you take to learn more about it? How can you come to a better understanding instead of accepting unbelief?
  • What does through the “water and spirit” mean to you? What is your personal story involving the “water and spirit”?
  • How does the “water and spirit” come alive in your life and help you witness Christ’s love?
  • Jesus died and conquered death, how does this truth affect your faith right now?
  • How can you carry the promises of Easter on throughout the Easter Season and the rest of the year?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  At birth God breathed life

ALL:  giving me a life line.

Leader:  Comfort found in a hug

ALL:  giving me a life line.

Leader: A friend who understands

ALL:  giving me a life line.

Leader:  Forgiveness of my sins

ALL:  giving me a life line.

Leader:  Peace within the chaos

ALL:  giving me a life line.

Leader:  Death births salvation

ALL:  giving me a life line.

Challenge for the Week:  Why is it that in the worst of times, the best of people is revealed?  Why do people feel drawn to help others more willingly when there is pain or suffering?  If you hear of a family who has experienced a tragic event, you send a card, make a phone call or organize people to provide meals; whatever you can to help ease the pain.  It can be a death in the family, a cancer diagnosis or even the loss of a job.  I remember the way it felt after the 9-11 attack; there was a common spirit throughout the country.  We had all experienced a traumatic loss and every person you walked past in the store or rode the elevator with shared that same desire to rise from the ashes of the devastating experience.  A nation united.  This is how I imagine the first Christians; everyone reaching out to help, to give what they can to provide comfort for those grieving and doing it without greed or thoughts of what they would receive in return.  They acted out of pure compassion and generosity.  So again I ask why is it that the worst of times, the best of people is revealed.  This Easter season, what can you do to create this atmosphere in your own life?  Imagine what could happen if you begin to sow the seeds of compassion and generosity within yourself, how it could grow to your family and others in your life!