Third Sunday of Ordinary Time

 

Opening Prayer

Jesus.

Follow me.

Two simple words;

Follow.

Me.

These are the ones you chose.

Let me hear these words.

Let me live these words.

Amen.

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 8:23—9:3

• Where is anguish and darkness in the world? What is being done to bring healing and light?
• Where can you bring abundant joy? What does it look like?

 1 Corinthians 1:10-13, 17

• Are there people whom you feel you are on the same page? Does sharing a last name automatically connect you?  Does sharing the same faith automatically connect you?  Why or why not?
• When was the last time you ask someone to describe Jesus to you? What did they say?  How was their description similar or different from you own?

 Matthew 4:12-23

• Imagine the scene, draw it if it helps, or find the image online and then create captions of what each of the people in the Gospel story was thinking. Then imagine YOU are there too…what would your caption say?
• What in your life right now do you need to “let go” in order to have a better relationship with God? What do you need to leave behind in order to better follow Jesus?
• Why do you think Jesus called after people to follow him? What was the purpose?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• How is your life different because of Jesus?
• Do you treat others differently because of your faith? Why or why not?
• Where is there darkness in your world? What can you do to shine light into the darkness?
• Would you say you walk in light or darkness? Why?
• Have you ever been overtaken by darkness? Share the experience.
• What in this world would you consider doom? Is there a location?  Describe a place full of doom.
• Make a list of the top 5 or 10 symbols that describe your faith.
• Are there things which you can disagree with someone and still be able to spend time together? What is needed to allow this to happen?
• Are there people in your life or that you have known whom you disagree about something which keeps you from spending time together? What was the disagreement about?  Is it worth not being with this person or these people?  Why or why not?

 

Closing Prayer

Leader:  From darkness to light

ALL:  let me follow you.

Leader:  From sickness to health

 ALL:  let me follow you.

Leader:  From the center to the edge

 ALL:  let me follow you.

Leader:  From death into life

ALL:  let me follow you.

Leader:  From the bottom of my heart

ALL:  let me follow you.

 

Challenge for the Week:  Are there burdens you carry?  Have you been carrying them around for a while or just picked them up?  Imagine your burdens…each of them individually.  Can you picture them?  Can you feel the weight of each of them?  Now imagine each of your burdens are fish shaped, swimming around in the water.  But wait…imagine a big fishing net coming in and scooping up those fish shaped burdens.  How do you feel as they are lifted out of the water?  Your burdens are just like these fish being gathered and scooped up out of the water…taken away from you.  Will you allow Jesus to take your burdens or do you try to swim after them?  Take time to consider how this feels.

Second Sunday of Ordinary Time

 

Opening Prayer

Lord, Lamb of God!

May your light shine

from the heavens

down upon each of us!

May your Spirit dwell

among us

throughout the land!

Let all those who gather

in your name

feel your presence!

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 49:5-6

• What is glorious about being a servant?
• How are you allowing God to make you strong?

 1 Corinthians 1:1-3

• Where do you see evidence of holiness?
• What do you call God? What names do you use?
• What does God call you in return?

 John 1:29-34

• Who in your life demands the respect John the Baptist gives Jesus? What have they done to deserve your respect?
• Do you believe in anything with as much conviction as John the Baptist does that Jesus is the Savior?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• Where do you turn for help?
• Do you see more light than darkness in your life right now? Or is it the other way around?
• What can you do to step toward God this year, this month, today?
• How has your relationship with God restored you?
• Are there stages of holiness like a 1-10 scale or it is a yes or no, either you are or you aren’t?
• What is the opposite of holiness?
• What are characteristics of holiness? Do any of the characteristics alone point to holiness or do you need all of them?
• Do you believe the Holy Spirit is still among us? Where?  How do you know?
• When was the last time you looked to the Spirit of God? What were you looking for?  Did the Spirit of God deliver?
• Is your faith strong enough you would testify on behalf of your beliefs?

 

Closing Prayer

Leader:  A promise made for all time

ALL:  from the dawn of creation.

Leader:  A promise made for all time

 ALL:  through a burning bush.

Leader:  A promise made for all time

 ALL:  seen in a dove in the sky.

Leader:  A promise made for all time

ALL:  in the life of a shepherd boy.

Leader:  A promise made for all time

ALL:  with the birth of a Savior.

 

Challenge for the Week:  There is a motivational speaker named Andy Andrews who wrote a book called the Butterfly Effect.  It is a fictional story about a man’s life, based on a scientific theory.  The theory refers to how something as small as a butterfly flapping its wings can cause a tsunami.  The story from Andy Andrews uses this theory to remind us that one small act from us can do the same thing.  This is some amazing power we have!  Whether we use our power for good or bad is our challenge this week.  Think about the significant difference one life can make in the world…JESUS.  Your life can make a BIG difference too.  Imagine what could happen if you simply flap your wings!

Epiphany of the Lord

 

Opening Prayer

Lord we pray,

That we may search diligently for YOU

Though sometimes we might get weary

Or maybe even lose our way…

Let us not forget the gift you are to us!

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 60:1-6

• Do you carry a dark cloud of darkness with you? Do you think you can hide it if you do?
• The earth was once covered in darkness…would you still say darkness remains? How has light changed it?

 Ephesians 3:2-3A, 5-6

• What does a steward do? How are you a steward of God’s grace?
• How would you identify yourself as a copartner with God? What does Saint Paul mean here?

 Matthew 2:1-12

• How will you pay homage to Jesus this year? Do any of your resolutions help you deepen your relationship with him?
• The scriptures over the past month have given us examples of how God speaks to his people through dreams…does this cause you to look at your dreams in a different way? Do you think God still speaks to his beloved people through dreams?  Why or why not?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• How do you measure light and darkness?
• Can darkness overcome the light? Share an example (of you or someone you know).
• What is it about light which draws people to it?
• Can a person be consumed by light? How does that look and feel?
• How do your rely upon light in your life? Could you live without it?
• God’s grace is given freely…do you give grace freely?
• Is the faith you express a gift or curse to others? Explain and give examples of how faith can be both.
• Is it harder to believe Jesus came to save ALL people or Jesus came to save YOU?
• What do your dreams warn you against? Do you listen?
• What makes you search for things? Do you seek God in the same way?
• How far would you travel to see God?
• What are you willing to sacrifice/give up in order to find God?

 

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Let us be radiant

ALL:  like the morning sun!

Leader:  Let us shine

 ALL:  like the star in the night sky!

Leader:  Let us burst with light

 ALL:  like the light from a candle!

Leader:  Let us spread our light

ALL:  like a fire out of control!

Leader:  Let us bring light to others

ALL:  and outshine the darkness!

 

Challenge for the Week:  Throughout Jesus’ life, he unwrapped the gift of himself and shared the gifts with others.  Jesus was a good son, obedient to God, a teacher, a healer and a welcomed companion and friend.  What gifts have you been born with but have not unwrapped?  Have you unwrapped gifts within you which you have not shared with others?  What keeps you from unwrapping the gifts and sharing them?  Spend time this week reflecting on your life and the gifts which you have been given and unwrapped.  Have you used the gifts to the benefit of God?  Have you kept the gifts to yourself or only shared them with a few people?  Are there still gifts left for you to unwrap?  How do you know when it is time to unwrap and share the gifts you have been given?  Light a candle in your home to help remind you to reflect on the gift Jesus is and the gift you are too!

Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God

 

Opening Prayer

God of heaven and earth

How must Mary have felt,

going through all of these trials?

What did she think,

about journeying away from home?

Was she sad

because he mother wasn’t with her?

Did she struggle

with believing what the Angel said?

How did others treat her

when they saw she was pregnant?

Help us to connect with Mary

so we might learn how to let our faith

overcome our obstacles!

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Numbers 6:22-27

• Who in your life right now needs to hear that they are a blessing to you? Practice how you will tell them.
• How have you felt blessed by others this year? How can you let them know you are grateful?

 Galatians 4:4-7

• Have you ever considered yourself as adopted by God? What does that look like?  What does that feel like?
• How does the birth of a child bring fullness? Is it the same or different than when Jesus was born?  How?

 Luke 2:16-21

• Have you been given a message to share like the shepherds? What is the message?
• Spend time reflecting on what the birth of Jesus means to you? What do you conclude?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• Where do you see blessing? Is there anything you can do to contribute?
• Make a top ten list of blessings with the date on it and put it in your bible.
• Do you feel uncomfortable receiving compliments? Why or why not?
• Do you feel uncomfortable giving compliments? Why or why not?
• Have you ever tried to hide from God? Do you think God hides from you?
• Would you define yourself as a slave? What are you a slave to?
• What do you treasure? What makes it so special?
• When have you been amazed? Was it recently or a long time ago?
• How do you describe the feeling of being amazed?
• What do you describe as being amazing? What makes it so?

 

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, when we feel unworthy…

ALL:  bless us with the Spirit of Grace!

Leader:  Lord, when we are in despair…

 ALL:  bless us with the Spirit of Hope!

Leader:  Lord, when we feel neglected…

 ALL:  bless us with the Spirit of Love!

Leader:  Lord, when we feel incomplete…

ALL:  bless us with the Spirit of Wholeness!

Leader:  Lord, when we are full of worry…

ALL:  Bless us with the Spirit of Peace!

 

Challenge for the Week:  Take time to reflect on the past year.  There have been good things and bad things happen; how have these things affected you?  What do you have to look forward to in the New Year?  Are there things which you are dreading to face?  What have you learned this year that can help you overcome any obstacles in the coming year?  Are you making resolutions halfheartedly for the sake of “tradition” or are you spending time to make a change for good?  Spend time in reflection on the scripture readings of the birth of Jesus, focusing on each of the people in the story from the Innkeeper to Joseph to the Angels to Mary to the Shepherds, each person has a message for you…what is it and how can it help you make resolutions for 2017?

Christmas Day – Nativity of the Lord

 

Opening Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Our waiting has come to an end,

the Savior is here!

Let us rejoice!  Sing joyfully!

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 52:7-10

• Glad tidings and peace are to be shared; how do you share the glad tidings and peace of Jesus with others?
• What good news does Jesus bring you?

 Hebrews 1:1-6

• Saint Paul reminds us that Jesus’ coming reveals God to us completely…what does this mean to you in your life?
• How do you show God honor? How do you give God praise?

 John 1:1-5, 9-14

• Where do you see God dwelling among us?
• Identify where you see God’s glory today.
• Describe how the Word became flesh and how it is still true today.

 

General Questions for Journaling

• Christmas comes with decorations, celebrations and presents…where do you find beauty in the hustle and bustle?
• When you reach for Jesus, how far do you need to stretch?
• Do you know anyone who doesn’t celebrate Christmas? How can you share the good news while respecting their traditions?
• What holiday song(s) make you feel close to Jesus?
• How do you find comfort in the holiday season?
• Is there someone whom you need to give comfort to this holiday?
• Why is it important for us to remember Jesus’ birth?
• What is your tradition for Christmas? Where did it begin?

 

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Little baby Jesus…

ALL:  born in a manger.

Leader:  Mary, holy mother…

 ALL:  so young and full of grace.

Leader:  Joseph…

 ALL:  descendant of Abraham and David.

Leader:  Stars above…

ALL:  providing light and guidance.

Leader:  Shepherds…

ALL:  keeping watch and protecting.

Leader:  Angels above…

ALL:  celebrate the newborn KING!

 

Challenge for the Week:  When we celebrate Christmas, we celebrate Jesus’ birthday.  What family traditions do you have when you celebrate a birthday of someone in your family?  What do you do?  Who do you invite to celebrate?  How do you make the person feel special?  What do you do for a friend when it is their birthday?  How can you do the same for Jesus?  What family traditions do you have or can you start to celebrate Jesus’ birthday?  Who can you invite to be a part of the celebration?  How do you make Jesus feel special at the birthday party?  Take time to plan out how you will celebrate Jesus’ birthday this year!

Fourth Sunday of Advent

 

Opening Prayer

Precious Lord

We await your coming!

We prepare for your arrival!

Quietly

Peacefully

May we be ready!

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 7:10-14

• Imagine hearing these words for the first time…today you know these words to be true, but what if you didn’t know Jesus was to be born?
• Where do you see signs of God? World?  Community?  Church?  Family?  Yourself?

 Romans 1:1-7

• How do you know you belong to Christ? What makes you know?
• Saint Paul describes himself as a slave for Christ. What do you know about Paul which validates this statement?  Do you exhibit any of these qualities?

 Matthew 1:18-24

• What do you learn about Joseph in this scripture?
• What do you learn about God in this scripture?
• What would have happened if Joseph didn’t listen to God and followed through with his intention of divorcing Mary?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• Do you feel weary? What causes you to feel weary?
• Do you think God ever gets tired? Why or why not?
• Have you ever missed God showing you a sign? How do you know?
• Have you ever ignored a sign from God?
• Is there someone in your life whom steals your peace? What can you do to share it with them instead of being angry they disrupted it?
• Define obedience. What are some examples of obedience?  How are you obedient?  To whom?  To what?
• Are there things that stand in your way of having a positive attitude? What causes the negative to overcome?
• When you think about Christmas, does it give you peace and joy or are you overwhelmed with stress? What can you do to let go of some of your stress?
• What message do these scriptures send which you need to hear this year? What sign is God giving you?

 

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, let us not forget

ALL:  the serenity of a new day.

Leader:  Lord, let us not forget

 ALL:  the smell of a newborn child.

Leader:  Lord, let us not forget

 ALL: there is joy in waiting.

Leader:  Lord, let us not forget

ALL:  there is peace in knowing.

Leader:  Lord, let us not forget

ALL:  the promises made…and kept.

Leader:  Lord, let us not forget

ALL:  we are yours!

 

Challenge for the Week:  We make signs to welcome people home, to say happy birthday, to attach to a car announcing, “Just Married”, to share good news.  We also often see signs at sporting events with catchy phrases, hoping to catch the eye of the camera man so our message can be seen.  Although not all signs share a positive message, people’s signs during a protest or boycott often reflect negative messages.  Whatever the message on the sign, our purpose is the same…for it to be seen and for people to take notice.  This week as you make final preparations for Jesus’ coming at Christmas, make time to think about what your sign says…or better…what you want it to say; what message do you want Jesus to see when He comes?  Then if you are able, actually create your sign and put it up somewhere you can be reminded how you want to catch Jesus’ attention 🙂

Third Sunday of Advent

 

Opening Prayer

Lord

Teach us to be patient,

so we might better appreciate

all you give to us!

Help us to slow down,

so we might see the goodness

all around!

Use this season of Advent,

to teach us to wait and

be still so YOU can come!

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 35:1-6a,10

• Describe the “splendor of God”.
• How is God bringing abundance into your life right now?

 James 5:7-10

• What are you in need of from God right now? Is there something special you are waiting on?
• What might you do to cultivate more patience in your life?

 Matthew 11:2-11

• How do you proclaim God’s goodness? Share details of the last time you did.
• Are there still prophets today? Where can you go to find them?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• Where can you find signs of God’s love for you?
• Identify the ways you know God is in the world right now.
• What specifically about the holiday season brings you joy?
• Are there things in your life you wish you could un-see?
• Are there things in your life you wish you could un-hear?
• When you last frightened? What was the situation?
• Do you think we ever have enough patience?
• Why is it hard to have patience when we are going through a hardship?
• When do you take time for yourself to slow down? How often is it?  It is often enough?

 

Closing Prayer

Leader:  We wait for YOU…

ALL:  to bring joy and gladness!

Leader:  We wait for YOU…

 ALL:  to bring light to the darkness!

Leader:  We wait for YOU…

 ALL: to bring healing and wholeness!

Leader:  We wait for YOU…

ALL:  to bring an end to weakness!

Leader:  We wait for YOU..

ALL:  to bring mercy and forgiveness!

Leader:  We wait for YOU…

ALL:  to bring us into your holiness!

 

Challenge for the Week:  It seems as though patience in people is something in the past.  We expect to receive what we what the moment we want it.  We get irritated when we have to wait for anything.  Not so long ago, it took time to bake our bread and churn the butter to put on it.  This week, we are challenged by the farmer in the second reading to embrace the art of waiting.  There is a saying, “good things come to those who wait” but many of us grow impatient and decide we don’t have time to wait!  What is something in your life right now which you are waiting on?  On a scale from 1-10, how patient do you feel you are being?  Would another person in your life agree with your score?

Second Sunday of Advent

 

Opening Prayer

Come Holy Spirit…

Reshape us!

Embrace us!

Set us on fire with YOUR love!

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 11:1-10

• Do you see the gifts of the Holy Spirit lived out in your life? Where?  How can you be more intentional about using those gifts?
• Share a present day example of the “wolf being the guest of the lamb”.

 Romans 15:4-9

• What walls do you have in front of you as obstacles of unity with others?
• Are there people in your life whom you find it easier to agree in order to keep peace? What good comes from this?

 Matthew 3:1-12

• What about John the Baptist would cause you to believe? What would draw you in to be baptized by him?
• John the Baptist was not worthy to carry Jesus’ sandals; what are things you do not think you are worthy of doing?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• What good comes from you? Where did it come from?
• Where do you see justice prevail? Share an example.
• Do you have a sacred place where you feel at peace?
• Have you ever had such a peace come over you, you felt as though no harm could come to you?
• How do you achieve peace in your life? Is it achievable?
• How does the Christmas season bring harmony?
• How does the Christmas season hinder harmony?
• How does the coming of Jesus give you hope in the world today?
• How do you feel welcomed? Where do you feel welcomed?
• How does the Christmas season encourage your faith?
• How does the Christmas season discourage your faith?
• What warning(s) have you received of pending doom?
• Is it fear of a vengeful wrath or the love of God which keeps you on the straight path?
• Where do you produce good fruit in your life? What are some things you can change in order to produce more?
• What fans the flames within you to make you bigger, better and stronger in your faith?

 

Closing Prayer

Leader:  In the waters of baptism…

ALL:  bring the Spirit of God!

Leader:  Through works of mercy…

 ALL:  bring the Spirit of God!

Leader:  In the gift of peace…

 ALL: bring the Spirit of God!

Leader:  As we welcome each other…

ALL:  bring the Spirit of God!

Leader:  While we sing your praise…

ALL:  bring the Spirit of God!

Leader:  Set our hearts on fire…

ALL:  Spirit of God!

 

Challenge for the Week:  In the Catholic Church we celebrate the coming of Jesus at Christmas in the season we call Advent.  We create an atmosphere of peace, hope, joy and anticipation with sacramentals such as the Advent Wreath, special Scriptures and traditional songs.  The church is decorated in deep purples and rose, the colors of Advent, instead of the Christmas colors of red, green and white.  For many of us, we take for granted this time of Advent, barely taking notice of how the Church on a greater scale is stepping out and pointing the way to Jesus.  The attributes of Advent; peace, hope, joy and anticipation, are in complete contrast of what is happening in the world during the “busy holiday season”.  Take time this week to reflect on what role you play in keeping these Advent attributes alive in your life.  What can you do to point toward Jesus, creating an atmosphere of peace, hope, joy and anticipation?  How can you be like John the Baptist, a voice in the wilderness, keeping Advent alive!

First Sunday of Advent

 

Opening Prayer

Be still.

Wait.

Breathe.

Wait.

Relax.

Wait.

Come Lord Jesus, Come!

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 2:1-5

• Are there habits which need to beat out of you like plowshares to help you be better prepared for Jesus’ coming?
• How does this scripture move you to make the world a better place? How does it move you to be a better person?
• Describe walking in the “Light of the Lord”.

 Romans 13:11-14

• What specifically can you do to strengthen the light of Christ you carry with you?
• This scripture is reminding us that time is limited…what are you filling your time which that is not of God?
• What will you do this Advent to change how you spend your time, not just during Advent, but permanently?

 Matthew 24:37-44

• When do you welcome Jesus into your day?
• When do you close the door on Jesus and not invite Him in?
• What are some of the things that “keep you awake”? Is there anything God can do to help you let go of the stress and worry?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• How high do you think the highest mountain is? What would it take to get to the top?
• Are there special skills you have which would help you survive a long journey? Are there any skills you wish you had?
• How does God instruct you? What makes you sure God is leading you down the right path?
• What do all churches have in common? Are these the things that make them the house(s) of the Lord?  Or is there something else?
• Have you ever felt as though God woke you up to tell you something? What did He say?  How did you listen?
• An angel of the Lord spoke to many people in the Bible in a dream, has God ever spoken to you in a dream? What did He say?  How did you listen?
• How will you prepare your home for Jesus’ coming this Advent/Christmas season?

 

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Let us rejoice…

ALL:  with dancing!

Leader:  Let us rejoice…

 ALL:  with singing!

Leader:  Let us rejoice…

 ALL: with praise!

Leader:  Let us rejoice…

ALL:  with joyful noise!

Leader:  Let us rejoice…

ALL:  for Savior is coming!

 

 Challenge for the Week:  When setting out to climb a mountain, experienced hikers will tell you that you need to be prepared for anything.  They would suggest special tools for cooking, first aid supplies and of course plenty of food and water.  They would also tell you that you should study the trail, the terrain, the elevation chance and be sure you are prepared for any type of weather (rain gear, stocking cap, etc).  If you ever walk into a REI or Bass Pro Shop, you can spend hours looking at all of the items “experts” say you could need to take along on your trip up the mountain.  This Advent, we journey up the HOLY Mountain, seeking Jesus.  Spend time thinking about what you need to make the journey, compare what it is like to be on top of the mountain to what you imagine it will be like to see Jesus.  Make a plan to have a productive Advent, make room for Jesus!

Christ the King

 

Opening Prayer

Lord, Jesus

You are crowned the most high King

yet you humbled yourself for me.

Let me too humble myself

to do the work you call me to do.

Come dwell in me, so your love and mercy

shines through like a crown!

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

2 Samuel 5:1-3

• What are the similarities between a shepherd and a king?
• What are and differences between a shepherd and a king?

 Colossians 1:12-20

• How do you know something has the fullness of Christ in it?
• Do you fully love anything or anyone? How do you express your love to the fullest?

 Luke 23:35-43

• Even in His pain, Jesus shows mercy to another. What can you learn from His example?
• The thief simply asks Jesus to remember him, what words do you use to ask Jesus to take you with Him to His Kingdom?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• How does it feel to be wanted?
• When did you last reach out to someone you hadn’t spoken to for a while, just because? Do you always need a reason?
• What was the last compliment you received?
• What was the last real compliment you gave?
• It is easy to see God in the beauty of the earth but what about in destruction, war or the slums of poverty?
• Is there goodness in your life right now? What role does God play in that goodness?
• Is there turmoil in your life right now? What role does God play in that turmoil?
• When you see a happy person, what is your instinct?
• When you see a sad person, what is your instinct?
• How have you recently reached out to someone? Did you do it out of obligation?  Did you do it out of love?  What is the difference?

 

Closing Prayer

Leader:  You call us Lord

ALL:  and we give thanks!

Leader:  You call us Lord

 ALL:  and we welcome the stranger!

Leader:  You call us Lord

 ALL: and we share what we have!

Leader:  You call us Lord

ALL:  and we offer prayers!

Leader:  You call us Lord

ALL:  and we surrender all!

 

 Challenge for the Week:  These scriptures call us to find unity…a common thread.  Sometimes the differences we have with others looks like a scorecard with tally marks so abundant we are unable to see beyond them.  Even though Jesus said He came to cause division, He also calls us into union with one another and with Him!  It is time to step out from behind the wall we have built and stand up for what your faith calls you to do.  This week try to think of all of the things you have in common with those you encounter and reflect on whether your attitude/opinion of them changed.