Sunday, October 9th Readings

28th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Spirit of God

As I journey through this life,

may I not forget the lives of those before me.

Let me spend time reflecting,

on the sacrifices others make for my sake.

Working, dreaming, praying, surviving,

for someone they would never meet.

What can I do for those who lived before?

Remember and show gratitude to those ahead.

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

2Kings 5:14-17

The leper was asked to wash in the river, which was a normal everyday task. He doubted God’s healing through the mundane. Where did God last cause a miracle to happen in your life? Was it through something spectacular or through something ordinary?
Why does the water heal? What makes it different from any other time he went to the river?
Have you experienced a cleansing like Naaman? Explain.

2Timothy 2:8-13

How do you suffer for the Gospel today? How does the faith community? How does the U.S.? The world?
What does it mean to be linked to the suffering of Christ? How does this look in your life?
In what ways do you deny God? Are there areas of your life that you don’t allow God into?
What do you deny yourself of? What does it take for you to do so? How does it affect those around you?

Luke 17:11-19

Who are the lepers of our time? How do you serve the marginalized and hurting?
What do you think causes Jesus to feel pity?
Why do you think only one shows gratitude?

General Questions for Journaling

When was the last time you let something little ruin what should have been a beautiful experience? What do you let get in the way of our happiness?
On the flip side, when was the last time you celebrated something little? Life is full of moments of grace which deem to be celebrated! What will you celebrate today?
Do you give to others with expectation of something in return? Share an experience. What does God say about this?
How does your attitude affect your healing? How does your healing affect your attitude?
What can you learn about how to treat others from those who care for others for a living such as nurses and others service jobs such as firemen? What one quality do you possess already? What one quality do you want to nurture in yourself?
Who do you consider to be in your “cloud of witnesses”? How is your faith affected by them?
When has God recently poured grace into your life? How did you thank God for this gift?
Are there things you need to let go of so God can cure you?
Where do you go to be cleaned? How do you become clean? Why do you need to be cleaned?
What gifts do you have that have the power to heal another person?
How open are you to allow another person to heal you?
What do you think the 9 lepers felt and thought after being healed? Do you think they heard about the one who went back to say “thank you”?
Why does God continue to heal people if they do not show gratitude? Do you follow God’s example? Do you always show gratitude for all God has given?

Closing Prayer

Leader: Lord, have pity on me and let me do the same…

ALL: by holding a door for a stranger.

Leader: Lord, have pity on me and let me do the same…

ALL: by leaving a generous tip.

Leader: Lord, have pity on me and let me do the same…

ALL: by calling or visiting a shut-in.

Leader: Lord, have pity on me and let me do the same…

ALL: by volunteering some time.

Leader: Lord, have pity on me and let me do the same…

ALL: by giving a gift for no reason.

Leader: Let me have pity on others so

ALL: Your grace can turn pity into joy!

Challenge for the Week: Compare and contrast times when you have been weighed down with the chains of suffering and times when you feel rinsed clean. Identify two or more situations in your life when you have experienced these feelings and spend time reflecting on the differences and the similarities of the experiences. What did you feel physically, what did you think, what emotions did you feel, what was your behavior like, how did you treat yourself and others during these times? Additionally, where was God during these times? Did you experience a change in you afterwards? Was it for the worse or for the better? What are your emotions/feelings about these experiences now that you look back on them? What will you do/can you do with this new knowledge of yourself? Is there benefit not only for you but for others as well? Decide on one action you will do (whether for yourself or for another) to live out what you have learned.

And/or: How do you express your love? The love language book speaks of 5 languages, service, affection, gifts, time, and adoration. Consider showing love to others in each of these five ways.

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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 and copy and start the journey!

Sunday, October 2nd Readings

27th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Father

Sometimes when I look at the world around me,

I want to cry because of all the hurt.

At times I wonder if there is any good to see.

There are days when I want to

give up, surrender, hide away

because the road ahead is too hard.

Give me the strength to seek YOU…

to have just a little faith

so I can make a difference!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Habakkuk 1:2-3, 2:2-4

Can you relate to the oppression, abuse or violence in this passage? What does it remind you of?
What have you done in times of misery to help you overcome the situation?
Describe how the author is feeling? Do you relate? How?

2Timothy 1:6-8, 13-14

How do you describe a “spirit of cowardice”? When have you had it? What needs to happen to overcome it?
How is Pope Francis an example of Saint Paul’s words in this passage to Timothy? What are you called to do in this passage?
What does it mean to share the hardship of the Gospel? What is Paul talking about here?
What examples of strength do you see in this passage? What examples of weakness? Do any of these apply in your life today?

Luke 17:5-10

What does this passage tell you about how God views faith? How does your own faith measure up to these standards?
Have you experienced at time in your life when your faith was able to move mountains? Do you know someone whose faith has moved a mountain? What does this mean to move a mountain?

General Questions for Journaling

Where do you see violence in the world? How are you affected as a witness?
How & when have you contributed to the violence in the world?
What is something of this world which troubles you? Where can you find God in this situation? What might God be calling you to do to change the situation?
What feeds your misery? How is your despair maintained?
Is there someone in your life who is struggling? Where is God in the situation? Is there something God wants you to do to help?
When do you cry out to God? How does God respond when you are hurting? Where do you find comfort?
What feeds your misery? How is your despair maintained?
What feeds your faith? How do you maintain it?
When have you been afraid of your faith? (Whether afraid of having faith or afraid of not having faith or afraid of the type/level of faith)
How does love and self-control affect violence?
How does violence affect love and self-control?
How can you exercise your faith?
Do you pray for an increase of faith?
Draw a chart to show how your faith has increased or decreased. Indicate on the chart events in your life when your faith grew or declined. Reflect on the changes in your faith.
Does quality or quantity matter when it comes to faith?
Do you call on the Holy Spirit to give you courage of faith? What does that look like? What words do you use?
Are there things in this world that you believe exist which you have not seen? How would you explain faith to someone who didn’t believe?
How do you increase your faith? A mustard seed grows into a giant tree, what can we do for our faith to grow too?
What can you do to spread faith? Can you grow it? How do you cultivate it?
What tests your relationship with God?
How do you describe your relationship with God to others?
Has God asked you to be uprooted? When? Did you move or stay still? What was the outcome?
When have you witnessed faith grow? Where do you see tremendous faith?

Closing Prayer

Leader: When I feel trampled

ALL: you come to pick me up!

Leader: When I am in need

ALL: you find a way to satisfy!

Leader: When I call out to you

ALL: you listen to my plea!

Leader: When I hold back

ALL: you urge me to give more!

Leader: When I surrender

ALL: you give abundantly!

Challenge for the Week: The world can feel scary with mass shootings, police brutality and the “ism’s” which cause division and inspire hatred. Fear can make you want to shut yourself off from what is going in, to hide away from it and fool yourself into thinking it doesn’t affect you. What is even worse if that keeping your distance from the pain and conflict keeps you from assessing your role in it, and then doing something about it.

Spend time this week thinking about what gifts, talents, and strengths you can bring to these painful situations. Consider what you would do if you or someone you know was impacted by a violent or traumatic event, how would you help? Identify one small act of kindness or compassion and do it; one small act can grow!

And/or: Make a list of the people in your life whom you take care of or have taken care of over the past year. Then make a list of the people who take care of you. Is it easier or harder to take care of others than to let others take care of you? God wants you to “let go” of having to always ‘do’ and to just ‘be’ so He may take care of you. This week, slow down and express gratitude and thankfulness for those you take care of AND for those who take care of you. God is calling you to rest in Him so you can experience His gifts of FAITH, HOPE and LOVE!

Sunday, September 25th Readings

26th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord

It is not wrong to desire nice things

or to work for a better life.

Let me not get consumed by these things

or allow them to be my focus.

Keep me humble so I might know

it is YOU who give me what I need.

Help m remember to share what I have

with all whom I meet for You are there!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Amos 6:1a, 4-7

There is an “all about me” attitude in the world today which is similar to the way the people in the first reading act. How can you get sucked into this attitude and get complacent or comfortable with taking care of only yourself and doing what is in your own best interest?
What would you describe as luxury in today’s standards?
Is this scripture saying you shouldn’t enjoy having good things?

1Timothy 6:11-16

Consider the fruits of the Holy Spirit of gentleness, patience and love. How do you show these characteristics to others?
How do you pursue righteousness, devotion, faith, love, patience, and gentleness? Where do you see these qualities lived out?

Luke 16:19-31

Who might be a Lazarus in your life today? What do they look like? What is their situation? What is a specific need you can meet for Lazarus?
What do you hear Jesus telling you in this parable? With whom do you relate more? Lazarus or the Rich Man?
Do you see or have you seen a “great chasm” in the world, in politics, in the church? What can you learn from it and can it be overcome? How does/did it affect your thoughts and behavior?
Are there words of warning or wisdom which have been left behind for you from loved ones who have died? How do you honor those?

General Questions for Journaling

What is your definition of the finer things in life?
Does wealth make a person self-indulgent? Explain.
Do you believe power comes with having wealth? How do you see power used in good and bad ways?
The world is consumed by judgment of people based on their clothing or lifestyle. Whom have you judged recently based on their appearance? What can you do to seek forgiveness for your action? What can you do to teach yourself the discipline to not judge?
What prejudices do people have toward those who would be considered wealthy in society?
What prejudices do people have toward those who would be considered poor in society?
How do you identify a person who is “less fortunate”? Do you base it on income? Part of town they live in? Spirituality?
What is your responsibility as a Christian to do for the poor? Rate how you have done in the past 6 months? Is there need for improvement?
Is there such a thing as too much? When is it too much? Is it wrong to have more than you need? Why or why not?
Are there acts of charity or justice which you prefer over another? Be specific.
Are there things you would not do to serve or help another? Give an example.
Do you have scars others cannot see? If you revealed those scars do you think you would be treated differently?
When have you treated someone differently because of the scars they have?
Have you ever disregarded another due to haughtiness on your part?
Have you ever needed to repent for disregard you showed toward another? What did you do and was your apology accepted?
What is your image of heaven? Of hell? How do your images compare or contrast to those described in the readings?
How does your life and lifestyle bear witness to the truth? What is something you can change to help you bear witness to the truth better?
You are faced with opportunities to minister to Lazarus each day. Do you walk past him and ignore him or do you help him? Think back to this past week and consider your actions.

Closing Prayer

Leader: When I feel trampled

ALL: you come to pick me up!

Leader: When I am in need

ALL: you find a way to satisfy!

Leader: When I call out to you

ALL: you listen to my plea!

Leader: When I hold back

ALL: you urge me to give more!

Leader: When I surrender

ALL: you give abundantly!

Challenge for the Week: The seasons are changing which is a good time to do some cleaning up and cleaning out. Go through your clothes, linens and other household items and donate what you don’t need. Also, food pantries and shelters are always in need of “staple” items of food, toiletries, and cleaning products. Check out the coupons in the paper and shop the ads to find the best deals so your money can be stretched to meet a greater need.

And/or: Is there someone in your life with whom you need to share the hope of the resurrection? Think of someone in your life who you should ask to come to church with you and then invite them to join you.

Sunday, September 18th Readings

25th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord

How can I help my neighbor?

I can barely care for myself.

What do I have to offer?

I don’t have any more to spare.

Lead me to find the resources

I need to care not only for myself

but for others too!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Amos 8:4-7

Who are the poor today? Who are those who take advantage of the poor? What can you do to correct an unjust situation?
Who is responsible for the people in need? How do your actions change when you are responsible for meeting the needs of others? Do you pass people by because it is not “your responsibility” or because you believe “someone else will stop to help”?
How do you feel called to care for the poor? What do you do to live out this call? What are you willing to sacrifice to provide for those you are responsible to care for? Be specific.

1Timothy 2:1-8

St Paul challenges to take the “Good News” out. Who do you share the Gospel with? Could you do more?
Paul also encourages you to pray for those in authority. What specific prayers can you pray for those in leadership roles in your country? Write down your prayers and pray them this week.
Have you ever given something up for another person? What was it and for whom did you give it up?

Luke 16:1-13

The steward is dishonest, however very clever. How might you model his behavior to promote honesty?
How can you better use the resources you have been given to make a positive difference in the world, in your life or in someone else’s life?

General Questions for Journaling

Have you ever been exploited? Have you exploited another?
Have you ever been oppressed? Have you oppressed another?
Greed is one of the seven deadly sins, yet it exists in plain sight in society. Sometimes it is even unrecognizable as sin. Spend some time thinking about where greed may have worked its way into your life or the life of your family. What can you do to get rid of the greed?
Identify a time when you have been greedy. What did it feel like? What was the situation? From whom did you with-hold or take from?
Is there an injustice which needs your attention? How does scripture lead you to a solution?
What causes people in the world today to get angry? What are some of the arguments going on in the world right now? How would lifting your hands to God help?
Have you ever had someone be a mediator in your life to help resolve a situation?
When have you helped two people work out an issue? How did you handle the situation? What was the outcome?
The United States is accustomed to a standard of living that greatly outweighs the “norms” in most other countries. What do you do or can you do to acknowledge the gifts you have? What do you do or can you do to acknowledge others in the world who are less fortunate?
Your actions say a lot and can make a big difference even if you don’t feel like it or see the change. What is something you do or can do to help stop injustice in the world?
Have you ever been on a mission trip? Gone to another country to serve? Helped out monetarily for someone to go? Or donated to help with recovery efforts when a natural disaster occurred? Reflect on the emotions you felt because of that experience.
How do you take your faith outside of the church doors? How do you live it each day of the week?
The actions in the first reading contradict the actions in the Gospel. Why? What are we to learn from this contradiction?
The Bible says, “You cannot serve both God and mammon.” Identify ways this is true in the world, your country, your family, and in your own spiritual life.
Is it possible to love your neighbor and also love money? Why or why not. Is having money or wealth bad? Explain.
Have you ever squandered something away or spent extravagantly? Share.
Do you save things or hold things back for future generation? If so what? For what purpose?
In today’s society, you might feel many people act as if they are entitled to a certain way of living. What can you do to change this way of thinking before it becomes an epidemic? What does the scripture readings this week say to do?
How do you see church and state, regardless of the law? Do you believe they are separate? Do you think they interact? Do you agree they should be separate? Why or why not?
How many people do you know that you would describe as trustworthy?
How do you serve God? How do you serve society? Which one wins?

Closing Prayer

Leader: When I feel trampled

ALL: you come to pick me up!

Leader: When I am in need

ALL: you find a way to satisfy!

Leader: When I call out to you

ALL: you listen to my plea!

Leader: When I hold back

ALL: you urge me to give more!

Leader: When I surrender

ALL: you give abundantly!

Challenge for the Week: You can allow your mind to justify a lie. There are even adjectives for a lie to help you, such as, a little lie, a big lie, or a white lie. You can tell yourself a lie, even just a little tweak to the truth is necessary to avoid hurting a person’s feelings or that twisting the truth is harmless because the actual facts don’t really matter. However, none of this is true. A lie is a lie and when you lie, it often catches up with you.

When have you told a lie? Did you lie to get out of something you didn’t want to do? Did you lie to make someone feel better? Did you lie so you didn’t have to deal with the truth? Are there lies you have told which have no meaning? Sometimes one lie causes you to tell another lie and another until you lose track of the truth and you can begin to believe our own lies. Spend time this week meditating on a recent lie you told, was it a slip of the tongue or is there something you are hiding? Once you’ve determined what you have done, figure out how you will make it right.

Sunday, September 11th Readings

24th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord of immense patience

How can I learn from you?

Where can I go to find patience?

Is it within my reach?

What can I do to cultivate more?

Why can’t I seem to wait?

Be with me Lord,

I cannot do it on my own!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Exodus 32: 7-11, 13-14

What does this scripture say about human nature? Is it still true today? Where do you see an example?
What does this reading tell you about God’s mercy?
How does the covenant with God work with the Israelites? Is there a give and take agreement? How does this covenant work in our own relationship with God?

1 Timothy 1:12-17

St Paul’s conversion is one of the most powerful examples in the Bible of God’s mercy and forgiveness. Where do you see God’s patience working in today’s world? Where in your life do you need to show mercy and forgiveness?
Identify how God has shown mercy to Paul.
Identify how others showed mercy to Paul.

Luke 15: 1-32

How do you rejoice when you have been forgiven?
Describe what it feels like to be filled with compassion.

General Questions for Journaling

Are there things in your life which you value more than God? Imagine how God reacts to this knowledge.
Would you consider yourself a persuasive person? Who do you identify as a persuasive person?
Could a persuasive person get you to do something you know is wrong or that you shouldn’t do? Has this ever happened?
How do you use persuasion in your life? Do you use it to get what you want or what God wants?
Do you try to talk God into things? If so, what? And how did/does He respond?
How do you feel when you make a deal with someone, and they don’t keep up their part?
Have you ever reneged on a deal? What was the situation?
Do threats work? Why or why not? When are threats necessary?
Have you ever cried out to God to help you? Did He come to your aid? Explain what the circumstances were and how God helped you.
Does God ever give up on you? Why then, do you give up on yourself?
When have you given up on yourself? Did you reach out to God or to others? Were you shown mercy?
You don’t only experience grief when someone close to you dies. You also can experience grief when you lose things of which you value such as your health, your job, a relationship, or a goal. Is there something which you grieve right now?
How have you dealt with loss? Did you feel angry? Fearful? Lonely? Did you feel God? Explain.
In a time of loss, who was there to help support you? Who offered comfort?
Did you learn anything about yourself through an experience of loss? Be specific.
Have you ever lost something of value and then got it back? How did it feel? What did you do?
Have you ever been lost? What did it feel like? Who found you? How did you feel when you were found?
Do you think God has favorites? Does He love the one who got away more than the 99 faithful?

Closing Prayer

Leader: Thank you Lord

ALL: For you never give up on me, a sinner!

Leader: Thank you Lord

ALL: For you never leave me, a sinner!

Leader: Thank you Lord

ALL: For you never lose patience with me, a sinner!

Leader: Thank you Lord

ALL: For you never for me, a sinner!

Leader: Thank you Lord

ALL: For you never forsake me, a sinner!

Challenge for the Week: On the anniversary of the terrorist attack on the twin towers in New York City and the Pentagon, each person over the age of 20 can tell you a story about where they were and how they felt when they heard the terrible news. If you reflect back to your story, it may be filled with sadness, anger, surprise, but at the time you probably didn’t have much mercy or forgiveness about the event. Spend some time this week and examine what has changed in your life, in the world and see how time has perhaps changed your perspective or understanding. Have you seen mercy and forgiveness happen in the world? What examples can you come up with as ones to share with others so they can learn to be able to forgive and show mercy to others.

Sunday, August 21st Readings

21st Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord,

YOU call out to me, and I come near.

YOU give me a heart of flesh to love.

YOU give me hands to reach out to help.

YOU give me the will to choose to follow.

May I never lose sight of ALL YOU give,

and always be grateful YOU are there

to give me what I need. AMEN!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 66:18-21

Isaiah says the Israelites are God’s chosen people. What indicates that they are chosen? How does that differ from being God’s chosen people by being baptized?
How are the Israelites set apart/chosen? Does God love you in the same way? How do you know?
Describe a time when you saw unity as described in this scripture.

Hebrews 12:5-7, 11-13

How does God use discipline to help you become the person you were created to be?
What does the word discipline mean? Is it hard? Does it hurt? Is discipline negative?
Give an example how God uses discipline or has used discipline in your life. Do you think everyone receives the same discipline from God?

Luke 13:22-30

At the center of this reading is relationship. How would you rate your relationship with Jesus?
The narrow gate frightens some believers. Why do you think people are afraid of the narrow gate? How do you feel about it? What are you called to do that will help you fit through the gate? What does Jesus do to ensure you will make it through?
Where do you see mercy in this scripture?

General Questions for Journaling

Can you see anyone or any group of people who are excluded from God? What can you do to be more inclusive when you share God’s love and mercy?
Think of a time when you were “chosen” first. How did it feel? Was there ever a time when you were “chosen” last? How did that experience differ from when you were chosen first?
If you had a choice to be included or excluded, which would you choose? Make a list of things you would like to be included in and a list of things you would like to be excluded from. What can you summarize about the two lists?
What clubs or groups do you belong which give you automatic benefits? As a child of God, you receive automatic benefits. Do you take for granted these benefits or give thanks? Give examples.
Is there a specific saint whose life speaks to you? Who is it and what is it about their life that draws you in? How did God relate to this saint?
Where do you see God’s love in your life right now? Do you see Him in your struggles too? Give examples of each.
A popular phrase is “practice makes perfect”. What happens when you don’t practice faith? How can you strengthen your faith if you don’t practice it?
Where do you learn “spiritual discipline”? How do you practice “spiritual discipline”? What does it mean?
How do you exercise your faith? What areas do you need to work on?
What does your physical body/presence say about your spiritual health? Do you think they are related? How? Why?
Do you ever feel you give and give and give with nothing in return? What makes you continue to give?
What do you offer God? What does He offer you? Is it even?
Are there times when you don’t think you give enough? Whom are you trying to please or satisfy? Is satisfaction achievable?

Closing Prayer

Leader: Lord, strengthen my relationship

ALL: in the prayers I pray.

Leader: Lord, strengthen my understanding

ALL: through the scriptures.

Leader: Lord, strengthen my focus

ALL: as I follow the path.

Leader: Lord, strengthen my witness

ALL: as I speak truth.

Leader: Lord, strengthen my commitment

ALL: in acts of justice and mercy.

Leader: Lord, strengthen me…

ALL: make me your disciple!

Challenge for the Week: Have you ever gone along with something because it was the popular choice, but you didn’t agree? This is one of the challenges in life. It can be difficult to stand up against the majority. But when you become strong in your beliefs, and you know that the direction the crowd is going is unjust or has negative consequences, you can’t just go along. It is a dilemma every person faces at some point in their life, sometimes multiple times. There might even be times when you stand up in faith and still find opposition. Matthew Kelly, founder of Dynamic Catholic, calls it being counter-cultural, when you go against the popular way and do things God’s way. Some might call you a radical for doing this, but isn’t that what they said about John the Baptist too? To live a life of a disciple means you practice what you preach and that means sometimes you will have to stand up against the majority. Reflect this week on how you would rate the strength of your faith and determine if it is strong enough to withstand opposition.

Sunday, July 24th Readings

17^th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord

Why do you love me?

What causes you to stay with me?

You love me and never leave

even though I neglect you

and persecute you.

May I acknowledge your persistence in love

and come to know you enough

to love others as you love me!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Genesis 18:20-32

What do you take from the conversation between God and Abraham? What does it say of God’s character?
How might you be more like Abraham? What characteristic do you want to emulate? How will you do this?

Colossians 2:12-14

What are the things that keep you from having the relationship you want with Jesus?
Are there people you can’t forgive? What stands in the way? Is there something God is calling you to do about it?

Luke 11:1-13

Who taught you to pray? How so?
Do you ask God for what you need? How does He respond?
Where do you find the answer to your prayers?

General Questions for Journaling

Is there something which you feel guilty about right now? What is it? Why?
Who do you turn to as a moral compass? Is it a person? What do those conversations sound like?
Do you believe in hell? Why or why not?
In light of the hatred and violence in the world right now, where do you see God at work?
Do you ever think God gets mad at us? Why or why not?
If God gets mad at us, what do you think he is mad about? Our actions? Lack of action? Words or lack of words?
Are there things you are afraid to talk to God about? Is it because you are afraid to ask?
What is the definition of oppression? Where do you see oppression happening today? In the world, your community, your church, your family?
Do you answer the door when God knocks?

Closing Prayer

Leader: Let me surrender to YOU

ALL: as you showed Sarah and Abraham to surrender.

Leader: Let me surrender to YOU

ALL: as you showed Job and Jonah to surrender.

Leader: Let me surrender to YOU

ALL: as you showed Elijah and David to surrender.

Leader: Let me surrender to YOU

ALL: as you showed James and John to surrender.

Leader: Let me surrender to YOU

ALL: as you showed Mary YOUR mother to surrender.

Leader: Let me surrender to YOU

ALL: in my daily prayers in word and action!

Challenge for the Week: In the parable Jesus continues to talk about how to treat your neighbor. The scriptures over the past few weeks give examples of hospitality, what you should do to take care of others. Jesus is reminding you to think of the needs of others first before your own, to share what you have without holding back. This message is countercultural, even at the time of Jesus. Spend time meditating on how you might be hording your “goods” (materials, time, talent) and identify what do you hold back.

***Just a few suggestions***

Is there a specific relationship which you don’t give enough time or effort to, but you know God is calling you to give more, be more?

Do you serve on a committee or participate in a group which you simply show up physically but aren’t giving of yourself to help move a project forward?

When asked to lend a hand, do your thoughts move to your “to do list” or do you jump at the opportunity to help and help with a positive attitude?

Sunday, July 17th Readings

16^th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Creator of all that is good,

YOU made me

with eyes to see

with ears to hear

with arms to reach out

with legs to go out

Let me see, hear, reach out and go to all who feel invisible.

Don’t let my to do list, keep me from yours!

AMEN!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Genesis 18:1-10a

What do you take from the hospitality of Abraham?
How is Abraham like Jesus in this scripture?

Colossians 1:24-28

Where do you see faith being passed on to generations to come? What is your role? What is the role of the church? How would Saint Paul respond to your answer?
How does suffering and sins of the flesh keep you from or draw you to the church?

Luke 10:38-42

Identify when you are Martha and when you are Mary; are you able to relate to both or are you drawn more to one over the other? Why? Are you happy with your answer?
What do you believe is Jesus’ real message here?
Have you demanded God tell someone else to help you out? How did He respond?

General Questions for Journaling

Does good always come from good? Why or why not?
How do you see God blessing others in the world today? How do you know it is God and not simply good fortune?
What is your definition of hospitality? Are you stingy or lavish with your hospitality?
Who sees the best version of you? Are you at your best 100% of the time? f no, what % of the time are you your best self?
Does the fear of treating others equally keep you from doing nice things for just one person?
Does suffering draw people together or rip them apart? How? Where and when have you seen this happen?
Do you say “yes” to too many things? Why or why not?
When you say “no” do you feel guilty for not helping out or participating? Why or why not?

Closing Prayer

Leader: May I have the Martha will and the Mary heart…

ALL: so I might show you love through service and in prayer.

Leader: May I have the Martha will and the Mary heart…

ALL: so I might complete the tasks you lay before me.

Leader: May I have the Martha will and the Mary heart…

ALL: so I might work to provide for my neighbor.

Leader: May I have the Martha will and the Mary heart…

ALL: so I might welcome you into my home.

Leader: May I have the Martha will and the Mary heart…

ALL: so I might follow you wherever you lead.

Leader: May I have the Martha will and the Mary heart…

ALL: so I might rest at your feet at the end of the busy day.

Challenge for the Week: Spend time this week in prayer and pray for the insight to determine if you are holding onto any ill will against someone without them even knowing you are upset. Are you blaming someone else for a choice you have made? If so, you really should be upset with yourself instead. There are times when doing good things for others, can stir up negative feelings. You can get resentful because the good you are doing is not being noticed or get mad at others for not helping or doing their part. It can easily turn into a blame game and either you or others make up excuses for not helping. You could even harbor bad feelings towards others without ever acknowledging where the negative feelings are coming from in the first place. Consider the Gospel story and use it as your guide as you meditate on how you feel and what you might do to find a peaceful solution.

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Sunday, July 10th Readings

15^th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Dear God

YOU created a complex world

and in it YOU give beauty beyond words.

YOU told the sun when to rise

and provide all creatures with their needs.

YOU wrote on the hearts of Your people

the desire to love and care for one another.

Let the material things and the lies of the world

be tossed away and take up space, no more.

Let YOUR Word fill me

until they overflow from my lips.

AMEN!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Deuteronomy 30:10-14

What do you do with all of your heart and soul? Are there a lot of things? A few?
How do know God has a plan for you?

Colossians 1:15-20

What do you learn about Jesus in this scripture?
What does it encourage you to do to be more like Jesus?

Luke 10:25-37

Identify your neighbors. What are their needs? How can you show them the love of God?
Have you seen this parable lived out in your life? When have you been robbed and left for dead? When have you been the one who passed by? When have you been the one who helped? When have you been like the innkeeper?

General Questions for Journaling

How do you hear the voice of God? When?
How often do you follow God’s voice/words when you hear them?
Where do you go to find purpose or meaning in your life?
What does it mean to have something “written on your heart”?
Who are your confidants? What qualities do they have that you go to them for advice?
Do you live your life so others know God is first? Or is someone else put first in your life? Spouse? Greed? Children? Self?
Does peace come to you or is it something you work for?
What does reconciliation feel like? Is it easy or difficult to achieve reconciliation?
Is there a limit to how much you can help another? Have you ever hit the limit?
When you are in need, are you open to others helping you? Why or why not?

Closing Prayer

Leader: When I feel I’ve hit a dead end and don’t know what to do…

ALL: YOU have the power to create a new path!

Leader: When I am left with nothing and don’t know what to do…

ALL: YOU have the power to share what I need!

Leader: When I feel lost and don’t know what to do…

ALL: YOU have the power to welcome with open arms!

Leader: When I am blinded by fear/money/arrogance…

ALL: YOU have the power to forgive my wrongs!

Leader: When I feel I am on empty and don’t know what to do…

ALL: YOU have the power to fill me up!

Leader: Father, giver all good things…

ALL: may I live my life in these truths!

Challenge for the Week: How are the commandments relevant today? Where do you see them lived out? Spend time this week re-writing the commandments to make them specific to you. Highlight the ones you struggle with so you can pay more attention to them.

Sunday, March 27th Readings

4th Sunday of Lent

Opening Prayer

Lord,

Let me come to you,

when I am weak and weary.

Teach me to reach out to you,

when I don’t know the way.

Allow me to cling to you,

so you can help me find my way

through the darkness.

Lead me to the fullness of life,

you promise and died to give me.

YOU, are all I will ever need!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Joshua 5 :9a, 10-12

How does God care for the Israelite’s? How does He care for you today?
The Israelite’s were guided to the Promised Land. How can you relate your life to the journey of the Israelite’s? How is it similar? How is it different?
The Promised Land was home to the Israelite’s, how do you define home? What is home for you?

2 Corinthians 5:17-21

What do you give to Jesus to make Him righteous? How do your words or actions give Jesus “wings” or a “leg to stand on”?
Read this scripture again and imagine you are in a courtroom. How does it play out in your head? Can you find forgiveness?

Luke 15:1-3, 11-32

What message does Jesus send with this parable? Can you list at least three life lessons Jesus is trying to teach?
Where do you find yourself in the parable at this point in your life? Are you working hard, doing what you are supposed to be doing like the Older Son? Are you squandering away the gifts God has given you like the Younger Son? Can you find it in yourself to welcome the sinner home with open arms like the Father? Are you a bystander, a witness? Be honest with yourself.
Identify how the Father and the Son’s in this parable have changed because of the experience. Can they return to how they were? Why or why not?

General Questions for Journaling

How is Lent like the Israelite’s wandering in the desert? What was their final destination? How is that like your Lent/Easter?
Like Passover, what traditions do you hold in your life as important? What makes them important?
Where did your traditions come from? Are they hereditary? Are they cultural? Are they religious? How do these traditions form you? What makes them so sacred?
Make a list of at least ten things that you use/consume that come from the earth. Can you also make a list of ten ways you work to conserve/protect the earth?
What can you do to learn from God about how to forgive and forget?
Is it easier to give forgiveness or ask for forgiveness? Why?
Does Christ live within you? How do you know? Can others tell?
What characteristics of Christ do you see in yourself? Reflect on these gifts and determine what purpose God has for you to use them!
How do you rejoice when you find something you have lost?

Closing Prayer

Leader: Each time I turn my back on you,

ALL: Lord, you welcome me home!

Leader: Each time I ignore your Words,

ALL: Lord, you welcome me home!

Leader: Each time I whine and complain,

ALL: Lord, you welcome me home!

Leader: Each time I go in the wrong direction,

ALL: Lord, you welcome me home!

Leader: Each time I say the wrong thing,

ALL: Lord, you welcome me home!

Leader: Each time I sin, Lord,

ALL: you welcome me home!

Challenge for the Week: Make a list of the synonyms for the word, forgive. How many can you come up with? Try this week to use these synonyms in your life through word and action. Where can you “restore harmony”? Is there a “hatchet” you need to “bury”? Once you have used all of the synonyms on yourself in your own life, see what injustices there are and where you can help to “reconcile” in your community. Aim to use each synonym you come up with at least once, get out there and “patch things up”!

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weeklyscripturejournal

Dive deeper into the weekly readings through journaling. Each week questions are based on the scripture readings from Catholic's Liturgical Year.

Parable

Sunday, October 9th Readings

Sunday, October 2nd Readings

Sunday, September 25th Readings

Sunday, September 18th Readings

Sunday, September 11th Readings

Sunday, August 21st Readings

Sunday, July 24th Readings

Sunday, July 17th Readings

Sunday, July 10th Readings

Sunday, March 27th Readings