Holy Trinity

Sunday, September 10th Readings

23rd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Father

How can I care for others

          like you care for me?

Help me to see more like you,

          so I might be more giving.

Give me a heart like you,

          so I can love and show mercy.

Open my ears and my arms,

          to hear the cry and give comfort.

You ask nothing more than for us

          to love you and love others;

Let us pray together and heal the world!

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

Ezekiel 33:7-9

  • Who has God appointed you watchman over? What are your responsibilities as watchman? 
  • How will God hold us accountable for our sins? How will He hold us accountable for the sins of others?

Romans 13:8-10

  • God asks nothing but to love one another; how well do you show love to others?
  • What obstacles hold you back from giving and showing love to your neighbor?
  • How do you define neighbor? Is it the same way God defines neighbor?

Matthew 18:15-20

  • What does this scripture tell you about the power of prayer? What does it tell you about the power of community? Share a personal experience when you saw this power firsthand.
  • How have you testified/How can you testify to the power of prayer?
  • When have you seen/heard someone testify to the power of prayer?

General Questions for Journaling

  • When do you feel safe? Where are you? Who is with you?
  • Share a time when you did not feel safe. What caused you to feel this way? How did you overcome the feeling?
  • Are there places, people or situations you avoid because you fear them?
  • How do you think those who are put into the position of “watchman” in the community or world do in their role? Find a good example.
  • Who watches over you? How do they watch over you? Share an example.
  • Do you believe there are prophets today? Who do you identify as present-day prophet? What tells you they are a prophet?
  • How does your life bear witness to the goodness of God?
  • If you could give yourself a grade for how well you keep the commandments, what would your grade card say?
  • Make a list of the things you love about yourself. Is it easy or difficult to come up with 10 things?
  • Jesus said to love one another even when it is difficult. Are you shutting yourself off from a relationship or relationships for fear of getting hurt?
  • Is there a relationship you need to give some attention to this week? Something in need of repair?
  • Is it easy or difficult to take responsibility for your actions?
  • Share a time when you refused to listen to the thoughts of another person. What was the circumstance? Did you ever end up hearing their opinion?
  • How are you an advocate of your faith? In your family? In your workplace?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord you are present in all things

ALL:  May I not ignore the gentle nudges of my heart.

Leader:  Lord you are present in all things

ALL:  May I not ignore the gentle whisper in my soul.

Leader:  Lord you are present in all things

ALL:  May I not ignore the gentle invitation of faith.

Challenge for the Week:  This week, look up the 5 Love Languages by Gary Chapman.  He has determined humans show love in five different ways.  Read through these and determine if you relate to one or more of them.  Do you agree with his assessment, or do you think there are more or less ways to express love?  Which would you say is your preferred way to express love to others?  Which would you say is your preferred way to receive love from others?  How does God show love to you?  Does it fit into one of these five ways?  When you look at the way God loves and compare it to the way you love others, what can you do to love more like God? 

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, September 3rd Readings

22nd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Jesus,

You came to find the lost.

You came to rescue the imprisoned.

You came to save the sinner.

I am lost, imprisoned and a sinner.

May I allow myself to be found.

May I allow myself to be rescued.

May I allow myself to be saved.

I am found, rescued and saved.

Thank you Jesus, you are my Savior!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Jeremiah 20:7-9

  • Can you imagine being “duped” by God? What would (did) it look like? What was the purpose? 
  • Do you believe God wants us to be “duped”?
  • Describe what it feels like to feel something in your bones? Have you ever felt something so deep? Share the experience.

Romans 12:1-2

  • How does the study of scripture help you to transform your mind? How does this transformation change your words and actions; be specific.
  • What does Saint Paul mean when he says, “don’t conform yourself to this age?” How does this specifically speak to you?

Matthew 16:21-27

  • What cross are you called to pick up today? Are you able to pick it up? Is your cross light or heavy? Explain.
  • If God does not think the way that humans do, how is it you are able to understand what God wants for you?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Does oppression happen in this world? Who do you know is oppressed?  How do you know? What do you do about it? Do you suffer from oppression?
  • How do you know God is driving your actions or if you are following your own desire? How can you tell which way God is calling you to go?
  • How does it feel to lose something? Describe the process of letting go.
  • How do you feel when you find something? How would you describe the process of finding a place for the thing you found?
  • Are there injustices in the world which break your heart? Are there injustices which occur that cause your gut to ache? Is the Holy Spirit calling you to do something about it?
  • What was the last exciting news you shared and with whom did you share it? What was your purpose for sharing? Was it your news to share?
  • What was the last disappointing news you shared and with whom did you share it? What was your purpose for sharing? Was it your news to share?
  • Have you ever risked being made fun of to stand up for what you believe? Share the experience.
  • How can you give strength to another who is standing up for what they believe in, even if you don’t agree?
  • Have you ever been thankful for suffering? What was the circumstance?  Why were you thankful?
  • What does it mean to “lose your life” according to God? What does it mean to “lose your life” according to the world?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord fill me…

ALL:  with reckless desire for you!

Leader:  Lord fill me…

ALL:  with unending compassion for others!

Leader:  Lord fill me…

ALL:  with raging fire for justice!

Leader:  Lord fill me

ALL:  with determination to do your will!

Leader:  Lord fill me

ALL:  with the ability to surrender,

Leader:  so I can be

ALL:   more like you each day!

Challenge for the Week:  In your life, you have positive and negative influences.  How do you determine which are the good ones and which are the bad ones?  They are not always clear.  There are times when there is a positive influence that you ignore because you are not in a good place yourself and other times when you are too close to a situation to see you are being influenced in a negative way.  How can you know?  When you turn to God for help and clarity, He can bring to light what is good and what is evil but are you willing to listen?  Spend time this week looking at the things which influence your life and prayerfully consider how the people and things you allow into our daily life affect you in a positive or negative way.  Summer is about to end and with the change of the season; you too should take time to change. 

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, August 27th Readings

21st Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Father

Vast is Your love for me,

          let me see it each day!

Endless are the gifts You give,

          let me show gratitude!

Abundant is the mercy You grant,

          let me share it with others!

You surround me with what I need

          and guide me through,     

                   my ups and downs.

Forever You are with me; 

          You are my all in all!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 22:19-23                            

  • Imagine yourself as Eliakim. How does it feel to be called God’s servant? Can you see yourself being given a place of honor in God’ house? 
  • How does God show His authority in this reading? How can you allow God to have authority over your life? Who has authority now?

Romans 11:33-36

  • Describe what “riches” Saint Paul is referring to in this scripture. 
  • How might you seek to know what God is thinking? How does one “know God’s mind”?

Matthew 16:13-20

  • Explain why the disciples and others would compare Jesus to Jeremiah, Elijah and John the Baptist? 
  • Who do you say Jesus is? Do you tell him? Do you tell others?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Where do God’s blessings come from? Are they given on purpose or by accident? How do you know?
  • How does God inhabit your life?  Be specific.
  • What are the things you don’t understand about God? What are the things that you DO understand about God? How does the knowledge of these things affect your faith?
  • What experience(s) have taught you about the meaning of the words, eternal, everlasting, forever?  What have you learned?
  • How can faith help you to let go of past hurts, worries or tragedy?
  • Do you see God’s plan for you? What makes you know for sure this is the path God intends for you?
  • Is the work you do or the job you have one you choose or one you “fell into”? Could this have any bearing on your attitude toward it? 
  • Do you feel you are using the gifts God gave you to complete the tasks required of your job?
  • Are you fulfilling your vocation in the position you hold? Do you feel as though God choose you to do the work you do?
  • How does Jesus reveal himself to you?  Where are you?  What is the situation?  How do you carry the experience with you?
  • How is it that Jesus makes Peter the “ROCK” on which to build His church but Peter denies knowing Jesus three times? How does this make you feel?
  • What qualities of Peter make him the perfect example of a disciple?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  I am humbly in Your presence…

ALL:  when I allow the silence to take over.

Leader:  I am humbly in Your presence…

ALL:  as I pause to give thanks before a meal.

Leader:  I am humbly in Your presence…

ALL:  when I look into the eyes of an innocent child.

Leader:  I am humbly in Your presence…

ALL:  as hear the rumble of thunder and crack of lightning.

Leader:  I am humbly in Your presence…

ALL:  when I see a couple holding hands.

Leader:  I am humbly in Your presence…

ALL:   as I open my heart and mind to the wisdom of your Spirit!

Challenge for the Week:  Growing up in the church, I’ve heard the phrase, “clothed in Christ”.  As a child I would imagine literally wearing a white robe like the one we see Jesus wearing in many of the pictures of him.  Now as an adult, this phrase takes on much more meaning since it is really a figurative phrase.  What are specific ways a person can be “clothed in Christ”?  Spend time this week reflecting on these ways and then focus on yourself, discerning how you too are “clothed in Christ.  In your prayer time, ask God to help you move your thinking so you can take ownership of this phrase and believe it when you say, “I am clothed in Christ!”

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, August 13th Readings

19th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Father,

Before me are many paths to choose;

Some are worn, some hard to navigate.

Many leave me feeling pain, sorrow or regret.

Others fill me with great joy and satisfaction.

Sharpen my senses to seek YOU on the path ahead.

Then even when the waves crash against me,

YOU are there when I reach out. 

May I seek YOU in each new dawn,

in each raindrop and in every shining star.

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

1Kings 19:9a, 11-13a

  • Identify a “great wind” or an “earthquake” in your life. How was God present in this moment?
  • When have you stood at the opening of a cave in your life? What kept you from going in? What motivated you to run into the darkness?
  • What causes you to want to hide your face from God?

Romans 9:1-5

  • Are there some in your family whom cause you “great sorrow” or “constant anguish” because of their belief or unbelief? What can you learn from St Paul in this scripture that might help?
  • Are there some people whom you need to separate or be “cut off” from in order to be a better follower of Christ? How can you relate to St Paul in this scripture? 

Matthew 14:22-33

  • Is your faith on a solid rock or on sinking sand? What can you learn from Peter to help you stay steady? How does this look in your everyday life?
  • How does Jesus’ example motivate you to reach out to others?

General Questions for Journaling

  • How do you feel when you are cut off from someone? Do you try to re-connect? Do you let it go?
  • What keeps you connected to God? Is it a good connection? Have you ever been cut-off?
  • What causes you to sink in your faith? Name some of the weights that drag you down.
  • What obstacles hinder you from reaching out to God fully?
  • Can God calm your fears or worries like He calm’s the sea? When have you experienced God’s calming power?
  • Would you describe your faith as strong? Would you be able to stand back up like Peter?
  • Jesus went up the mountain to pray. Do you have a sacred place where you like to go to pray? What makes it sacred?
  • How does God invite you to step out of the boat?
  • Are you able to distinguish when God is in the wind, the fire and the earthquake and when He is not? How close do you think you need to be in order to know the difference?
  • What forces work against you in building your faith? What do you struggle with in order to keep the faith?
  • Share an example in your life which shows how you trust Jesus.
  • Are there times in your life when you find it easier to listen to God?
  • Are there times in your life when it is difficult to listen to God?
  • What happens to God’s promises when you walk away from worship? How can you carry the feeling of security with you?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  When I am feeling lost and alone…

ALL:  Fix my eyes on Jesus!

Leader:  When I don’t know which way to turn…

ALL:  Fix my eyes on Jesus!

Leader:  When I stumble and fall and sink…

ALL:  Fix my eyes on Jesus!

Leader:  When I am so full of joy I overflow…

ALL:  Fix my eyes on Jesus!

Leader:  When I feel fulfilled and satisfied…

ALL:  Fix my eyes on Jesus!

Leader:  When I stand up for what I believe…

ALL:  Fix my eyes on Jesus!

Challenge for the Week:  Many people live in the “in between” of faith.  It’s a place where they believe but don’t practice their beliefs with intention OR they practice so hard they are frustrated with the results.  It can be difficult to find a healthy balance of living out and practicing those beliefs.  When scripture says love your neighbor and pray for your enemies, it sounds beautiful and practical.  However, how many believers actually put the words into practice?  Do you love everyone, even those who hurt you or those you love?  When a tragedy happens do you immediately begin to pray for the victims and not the perpetrators?  Consider where your faith and your beliefs intersect.  

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, July 30th Readings

17th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Heavenly Father

Guide me and teach me

to know what it means to be a treasure

Open my eyes

to the treasures You have given to me each day

Lead me to seek

the treasures You have waiting for me in Your Word;

a heart of gold,

an attitude lined with silver

and infinite wealth.

AMEN!

Journal/Reflection Questions

1Kings 3:5,7-12

  • The word understanding in Hebrew means obedient. What are your definitions of the words understanding and obedient? How do they differ? How are they similar?
  • How does this scripture passage model prayer for us? Does Solomon do all of the talking? How does God respond? How is this similar or different to how you pray? 
  • King Solomon is noted as being a very wise person. How does his wisdom show through this scripture?

Romans 8:28-30

  • Have there been experiences in your life where able to relate to this adage of “all things work together for good?” Can you see where God was/is in the experience?
  • Does this scripture mean that when bad things happen, God is not there? How would you explain what this scripture means to some who has experienced darkness, abandonment, or loss in their life?

Matthew 13:44-52

  • What does the phrase “kingdom of God” mean to you?
  • How do you hear God speaking to you in your life? Is it a whisper? A shout? How do you respond?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Do you listen to your dreams? What do they tell you?
  • How do you feel about your enemies? Do you have enemies?
  • How do your instincts differ from what God wants?
  • What kind of “wisdom” comes from age?
  • Do you believe that “youth” is an age or a frame of mind? Explain.
  • What obstacles do you believe you have that keep you from being the best you can be?
  • What are the blessings you want from God?  Be specific.
  • Make a list of good things God has provided for you.
  • Make a list of bad things that have happed because your love God.
  • Is there a situation in your life right now which you need to let God shed some light on? Do you believe it will make a difference?
  • Do you sometimes feel like you are playing hide and seek with God? Who is hiding? Where do you hide?
  • How do see heaven? What do you believe it is?
  • Where do you find security? Is it real? How do you know?
  • What confirmation do you have that you are living the life God calls you to live?

Closing Prayer

Solomon’s Prayer

ALL:  Therefore give to Your servant

an understanding heart to judge Your people,

that I may discern between good and evil. 

Challenge for the Week:  Spend time this week breaking down each request in this prayer.  How can you put this prayer into practice, so it isn’t just a bunch of words you pray?  As you are discerning the actions you should take to bring this prayer to life, pray it each morning, each noontime and before you go to bed.  It is short enough that you might be able to memorize it quickly and add it to your daily prayers from now on.

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, July 23rd Readings

16th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

God of great patience!

May we learn from Your Word

          how to be more tolerant of our failings

                   and the faults of others!

Your Word tells us that when we seek You,

          the Holy Spirit fills us with what we lack

                   so we can be better examples of You!

Lord, make us whole in YOU!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Wisdom 12:13, 16-19

  • Where do you see your sin in this scripture? Do you condemn others? Are you unjust? Do you seek power? Do you “lord” over others? Do you hold others prisoner with rules and regulations?
  • Is there someone you know who is need of justice or mercy? How does this scripture encourage you to act out to help them find it?

Romans 8:26-27

  • What does this scripture tell you about the nature of the Spirit?
  • Can you recall a time when the Holy Spirit came to your aid? What was the situation? How did you know it was the Holy Spirit who helped you?

Matthew 13:24-43

  • How does this scripture challenge or affirm your understanding of love?
  • Share an example of how removing weeds from a person’s life, it could cause more harm to them than good?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Share an example of God’s humility.
  • What do you have hope for right now?
  • Do you believe the world is basically good or basically bad? Why?
  • Do you identify yourself by your actions or by your emotions? What words would you use to identify yourself (not by your role or job but as a person)?
  • Where can you see kindness right now? Is it difficult or easy to find?
  • What does it mean to repent? How can you repent? Is there a limit?
  • Is there someone whom you need to seek forgiveness because you have been unkind or unjust to them? 
  • When did you first learn how to pray?
  • How has your prayer life developed over time? What has changed over the years? Create a timeline to show the progress of your prayer life.
  • When have you stood up for someone who couldn’t stand up for themselves? What was the situation and what inspired you to step in?
  • Are there people in your life or in the community who need you to stand up for / with them? What is a specific action step you can take to do so?
  • How are the mustard seed and yeast similar? How are they different?
  • A mustard seed and yeast are described as a metaphor for heaven. What other relatable image(s) would you use to describe heaven?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Father, search my heart…

ALL:  for goodness and kindness.

Leader:  Father, search my heart…

ALL:  for a sense of longing.

Leader:  Father, search my heart…

ALL:  for acceptance and mercy.

Leader:  Father, search my heart…

ALL:  for compassion for others.

Leader:  Father, search my heart…

ALL:  for love and forgiveness.

Leader:  Father, search my heart…

ALL:  for the strength to endure.

Leader:  Father, search my heart…

ALL:  and find it full of you!

Challenge for the Week:  This scripture suggests you “try and try again.”  When you fail, you turn to God to repent and then continue to press on.  This is difficult to do when you are faced with adversity.  Good athletes practice for hours to perfect their skills to become better.  Take a lesson from them and choose a new practice to help you get rid of the weeds in your life and be diligent about it.  Make a decision to create a new/good habit.  Don’t focus on trying to get of a bad one, simply plant a good one and cultivate it.  Put all of your focus on the new habit.  Don’t feel guilty if you mess up or skip a day, repent and try again!  Keep putting forth the effort to grow and in time consistent attention will form the new habit so much that it will weed out the bad one!

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, June 11th Readings

Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ

Opening Prayer

Jesus

You are the bread of life!

You are the manna sent from heaven!

Without you, I am empty!

Fill me, nourish me, and sustain me!

I will have my fill and never go hungry!

You are my daily bread!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Deuteronomy 8:2-3, 14b-16a

  • God sent manna from heaven, how is this still true?
  • One cannot live on bread alone, how does this apply to your life?  What is the “bread” you live on?
  • What does this scripture teach you about faith in God?

1Corinthians 10:16-17

  • One cannot live on bread alone, when you receive communion, how do you feel changed?  Do you feel the same when you read God’s word?
  • What cup of blessing do you hold today?  How can you let this blessing overflow and be a blessing to others?

John 6:51-58

  • The sacrifice made by Jesus on the cross is the foundation of the Eucharist.  What do you sacrifice when you come to the altar to receive Jesus’ Body and Blood?
  • Describe how partaking in Jesus’ Body and Blood sustains you?  What does it mean to you?

General Questions for Journaling

  • What is the symbolism of the “hunger” we have in our lives in relation to God?
  • How has God delivered you from slavery?  What are you still a slave to in your life?  How can God help you become free?
  • When you receive communion, you become a living tabernacle.  How do others see Christ in you?
  • What does God provide you in order to continue on the path of discipleship?  What more do you need on your journey of faith?
  • Which commandments are easy to follow?  Which are difficult?  Why?
  • Have you had desert experiences in your life?  Can you look back and see God “feeding” you in those times? 
  • Identify a time when you were “parched”.  How did this experience affect your faith?
  • How do you see yourself as a part of the Body of Christ?
  • What is your definition of Communion? 
  • What feelings or emotions are associated with hunger?  How are they different than the emotions and feelings of being satisfied?
  • How do the scriptures help you see how God feeds you?  What can you do to be more aware of the food God supplies for your life?
  • The Word Eucharist means Thanksgiving, how is the celebration of Mass like the Thanksgiving holiday?
  • It is said, you are what you eat.  What are some bad food choices you make?  How can God help you to make better choices?
  • What are some good food choices you make?  How do they improve your spirit?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Christ before me…

ALL:  I praise YOU!

Leader:  Christ around me…

ALL:  I give you thanks!

Leader:  Christ beside me…

ALL:  I am at peace!

Leader:  Christ within me…

ALL:  I am filled with joy!

Leader:  I am Christ to others…

ALL:  Let the feast begin!

Challenge for the Week: In the Catholic Church, the Mass is separated into two parts, the Liturgy of the WORD, reading the scripture and the Liturgy of the EUCHARIST, celebrating the Body and Blood of Jesus.  In both cases, you are consuming Christ.  During COVID churches were closed, and there had been restrictions to the access to the Body and Blood of Christ.  Though participation in the celebration of Mass virtually, you could not consume the actual Body and Blood of Christ.  This was a time when the need to dive deeper into the WORD of God, the scriptures, the WORD made flesh in Jesus was essential.  This is still true today.  There are several ways to connect more deeply to the Scriptures on a daily basis to be filled.  You can read and meditate on a daily prayer book, get scripture verses sent to via text or email and you can journal or pray the rosary or a dozen other practices to help you connect and feel the abundance of Christ within you.  When you spend time reading, praying and allowing the WORD to marinate your soul, then you will know what it means to be filled with God’s WORD and be satisfied! 

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, June 4th Readings

Solemnity of the Holy Trinity

Opening Prayer

Creator God,

you fill the world with all things good.

Savior God,

you came to earth to live and die for my salvation.

Spirit God,

You dwell in me so I are forever with you.

Blessed Trinity,

help me be more aware of your presence in my life!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Exodus 34:4b-6,8-9

  • How do you humble yourself before God like Moses did in this scripture?
  • What does God reveal about His character in this scripture?
  • Moses asked God to pardon your sins; what do you have a hard time pardoning? Are there things of this world which are hard for you to forgive?

2Corinthians 13:11-13

  • What do you learn about God in this scripture? About Jesus? About the Holy Spirit?
  • How does this reading suggest you live your everyday life? Is it impossible to live in this way? Why or why not?

John 3:16-18

  • “For God so loved the world”, speaks of sacrifice. Do you sacrifice things for your faith? For a relationship with God?
  • Do you sacrifice for love? Whom in your life do you love enough to sacrifice things for? Do you sacrifice freely or with expectation?

General Questions for Journaling

  • What examples in your life confirm that God is slow to anger, rich in kindness and faithful?
  • Describe God’s love. What does it look like? Feel like? Sound like?
  • How do you think God finds favor in you? Identify at least 5 things about you which God would find favor.
  • Describe a time when you were “stiff-necked and stubborn”.
  • Would God find favor in the way you treat others who are “stuck in their ways”? How do you think God would treat them?
  • What do you hold a grudge against? How can you begin to let love into that situation?
  • What sin does God look past today in order to give you love? How has God shown his love already today?
  • How do you know the Holy Spirit is with you? How can you tell when the Holy Spirit is with another person?
  • How does God show you grace? How can you show grace to another person?
  • Where do you see people being condemned today? Is there something you could do to bring peace?
  • When have you felt condemned, what did you learn from the experience?
  • Do you know a peaceful person? What qualities do they have that you would like to cultivate?
  • You are called to agree and get along with everyone, all of the time. How difficult or easy is this, why?
  • What would you say are the “core” things we all should agree upon to make this world a better place?

Closing Prayer

Leader: O Holy is YOUR name…

ALL:  Creator

Leader:  I AM

ALL:  God

Leader:  Emmanuel

ALL:  Jesus

Leader:  Savior

ALL:  Living God

Leader:  Mighty wind

ALL:  Eternal breath

Leader: Counselor

ALL:  God with us

Leader:  Holy Trinity

ALL:  Father, Son and Holy Spirit!

Challenge for the Week:  Do you know someone you would describe as an encourager?  What makes them so?  Do they encourage you or others too?  Make a point this week to encourage someone new each day.  It may be helpful to take time to reflect on some of the people you see weekly and consider what you might do or say to encourage them.  Consider people you don’t see on a regular basis who might need some encouragement and write them a note, email or make a phone call.  Also, spend time thinking about those people in your life who have been and still are encouragers to you.  Do they know how much their support means to you and how it has affected your life?  Take time to let them know how you feel and who they are a gift to 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, May 28th Readings

Pentecost

Opening Prayer

O Blessed Spirit,

When I feel alone,

          You are there.

When I am surrounded by darkness,

          You bring light.

When I am weak,

          You are my strength.

You are my guide to stay on the path of life,

          which leads to heaven.

Fill my soul, dwell in me, FOREVER!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 2:1-11

  • Where is the Holy Spirit driving you? How do you open yourself up to the mission you are called to in your life?
  • What is changed about the apostles after they are visited in the upper room? What can you take from this experience? Imagine yourself there…how does it change your perspective?
  • What keeps you from experiencing the fullness of the Holy Spirit today?

Corinthians 12:3b-7, 12-13

  • Each person is given a different gift of the Holy Spirit. Can you identify the gift(s) you have been given?
  • Explain the difference of being baptized in the Spirit and being baptized in water.
  • What lesson can you learn about differences from this scripture?

John 20:19-23

  • In the Old Testament, God “breathed” His breath into Adam.  What significance does this word have here in this reading? What is the correlation between the two scriptures?
  • How has the Spirit caused you to act differently? 
  • Where do you share God’s peace?  

General Questions for Journaling

  • Have you ever felt the Holy Spirit? Where was it? Did you feel it inside of you? Did you see it working around you?
  • Jesus said He sent an Advocate, a Comforter. How do you know you are not alone?
  • What can you do to build a closer relationship with the Holy Spirit?
  • What action steps are needed for you to let the Spirit into your life and help you be filled?
  • What excuses do you make to keep the Holy Spirit from entering into your being? What obstacles stand in your way of a meaningful relationship with the Holy Spirit?
  • What qualities of the Holy Spirit do you possess? What qualities of the Holy Spirit would you like to fill you?
  • In Galatians 5, St Paul shares what it means to “live in the Spirit”, what can you do to cultivate these qualities in your life?
  • How do you communicate faith with others? What language do you speak with your words and actions?
  • Do you believe in miracles? Why or why not?
  • Do think at Pentecost, they understood each other literally? Explain.
  • What can you do to understand others better? How can the gifts of the Holy Spirit help?
  • Is there a place where you feel more connected to the Holy Spirit? Jesus? God? Share.
  • Are there people in your life who are different and you appreciate their differences?
  • Are there people in your life who are different and you are frustrated by their differences?
  • What gift(s) do you hold back?
  • What can you do to share your gifts more abundantly?
  • Is peace easily found?  Why or why not?
  • Define a “peacemaker”. What qualities do you have?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Come Holy Spirit,

ALL:  shine in my life!

Leader:  Come Spirit of Truth,

ALL:  teach me the way!

Leader:  Come Advocate,

ALL:  give me strength!

Leader:  Come Paraclete,

ALL:  bring me comfort!

Leader:  Come Presence of God,

ALL:  renew my faith!

Leader:  Come Holy Spirit,

ALL:  fill me with joy everlasting!

Challenge for the Week:  Spend time this week looking back on when Lent began twelve weeks ago with Ash Wednesday.  Since then, you have walked with Jesus through several experiences.  You have been there when He fought off the devil, raised Lazarus from the dead, washed the Disciples’ feet, was arrested, and crucified.  That was all just before Easter when He escaped death and came back for an encore to share with the Disciples that He will always be there with them until the end of time.  What has been revealed to you through this journey?  How has walking through Jesus’ last days, His suffering, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension brought you understanding or comfort?  What has been revealed to you through these experiences?

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the WeeklyScripture 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 21st Readings

Ascension

Opening Prayer

Heavenly Father,

When I look to the sky,

I am limited to what I see.

I can only imagine what is beyond.

Teach me,

guide me in Your WORD,

so I have the faith to believe

and understand what I cannot see.

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Acts 1:12-14 

  • What can you learn from the disciples about letting go of someone you love?
  • What is the importance of prayer and community in these times?

1 Peter 4:13-16 

  • Explain how sharing in Jesus’ suffering brings us closer to him.
  • When have you felt the Spirit of God rest upon you? Share the details.

John 17:1-11a

  • What is revealed to you through Jesus’ suffering? 
  • What is revealed to you through Jesus’ crucifixion?  
  • What is revealed to you through Jesus’ resurrection? 
  • What is revealed to you through Jesus’ ascension?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Share a time when you were disappointed. How were you able to overcome?
  • When have you had to let go of something you love? How did you deal with the loss?
  • What can you do to bring comfort to someone who is suffering from a loss of a job, loss of a friend or family member, or a loss of faith/hope?
  • Describe heaven.
  • What changes in you, when you hear that Jesus has a place for you in heaven?
  • How does Jesus’ ascension to heaven affect your faith?
  • How does Jesus’ ascension to heaven affect your understanding of heaven?
  • How does Jesus’ ascension to heaven affect your understanding of death/dying?
  • Is it possible to avoid suffering? Why or why not?
  • Does good or bad come from avoiding difficult situations? Share examples of both.
  • Jesus said he gave us everything. What does this mean to you?
  • Do you tell people you will pray for them? Do you follow through?
  • What assurance do you have that Jesus will follow through with his promise to pray for you?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, I hear you call me,

ALL:  when I listen with my heart.

Leader:  Lord, I open myself to you,

ALL:  when I feel with my heart.

Leader:  Lord, I gain understanding from your Word,

ALL:  when I study with my heart.

Leader:  Lord, I comfort others and am comforted,

ALL:  when I embrace with my heart.

Leader:  Lord, I spread the Good News,

ALL:  when I love with my heart.

Leader:  Lord, I turn my eyes to heaven,

ALL:  when I believe with my heart.

Challenge for the Week:  Spend time this week looking back on when Lent began twelve weeks ago with Ash Wednesday.  Since then you have walked with Jesus through several experiences.  You have been there when He fought off the devil, raised Lazarus from the dead, washed the Disciples’ feet, was arrested, and crucified.  That was all just before Easter when He escaped death and came back for an encore to share with the Disciples that He will always be there with them until the end of time.  What has been revealed to you through this journey?  How has walking through Jesus’ last days, His suffering, crucifixion, resurrection and ascension brought you understanding or comfort?  What has been revealed to you through these experiences?

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!