Second Sunday of Ordinary Time

 

Opening Prayer

Lamb of God

You call us through our baptism

to be holy as you are holy.

Let your light shine from the heavens

down upon each of us.

We look to you to lead the way

and make our path clear.

You are the light of the world!

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 49:3,5-6

• How do you show others the glory of God?
• The scripture says you were made glorious. Describe what if feels like to be glorious.  When was the last time you felt that way?

 Corinthians 1:1-3

• Where do you see the “will of God” working today? Share a specific example of where the “will of God” is working in your life or in your community.
• Define holiness. This is something you are or something you aspire to have?  How does this scripture change or affirm your definition?

 John 1:29-34

• Jesus is the Lamb of God who came to take away sins. Are there sins which you are unable to allow God to take away?  Why?
• What is your understanding of the difference between being baptized in water and being baptized with the Spirit?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• What does it mean to you to serve?
• How is a servant the same and different in the eyes of God vs. how the world sees a servant?
• Reflecting on the past year, where did you experience the strength of God? Be specific.
• Who is your life is a beacon of light? What does that person mean to you?  Have you shared how you feel?
• Where do you see God’s grace the most right now?
• Where do you think God’s grace is the most needed right now?
• If Jesus came to the world today, what do you think would happen?
• Share your baptism story.
• How would you say your baptism changed you? Are there things you think you should change because you have been baptized?
• Have you ever felt like the Spirit was upon you? When was it?  What were you doing?  How did it feel?  Were there witnesses?

 

Closing Prayer – Inspired by Psalm 40

Leader:  I am here Lord

ALL:   put a song on my lips!

Leader:  I am here Lord

 ALL:  my ears are open!

Leader:  I am here Lord

 ALL:  my heart is filled with delight!

Leader:  I am here Lord

ALL:  I shout your name to the heavens!

 

Challenge for the Week:  As a servant of God’s will we should show God obedience through our words and actions.  Spend time this week looking back on the past week to see how you have shown obedience to God.  Have you been supportive and kind to others?  Have you given compliments and helped others?  Have you spent time with God in prayer?  Has it been productive?  Identify some of the things you have done in the past week that you know are in line with the servant you want to be and also determine if there were times when your words and actions were not in line with the person you want to be (and God calls you to be)…make a plan to adjust this in the future.

Baptism of the Lord

 

Opening Prayer

Holy Spirit,

Move us off well-worn paths.

Shatter our human expectations.

Heal our pain and hurt.

Mend our brokenness.

Cleanse our hearts.

Renew our faith.

Amen!

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7

• Where do you see enlightenment in the world today? How can you make a difference?
• What can Christians do to bring light into the dark places of the world?
• Where do you see God’s salvation in the world?

Acts 10:34-38

• What do you believe God’s plan for you? What supports your belief?
• What do you believe is God’s plan for the entire world? Share examples of this plan coming to fruition.

 Matthew 3:13-17

• Jesus is presented at baptism as, “God’s beloved Son”. Have you ever thought of yourself as God’s beloved child?  How might your attitude change if you lived your life knowing this to be true?
• Meditate on how the Trinity is presented at Jesus’ baptism. How does this compare to your own baptism?

 

General Questions for Journaling

• You have been filled with the Spirit at your baptism; God’s favor rests upon you. What can you do to thank God for this gift?
• How does God show you His love for you?
• Share a time when you felt God’s love in abundance. Where were you, who what with you?
• What are things you can do to remember and celebrate your own baptism every day?
• How can you live your life as if you ARE baptized instead of living as though you WERE baptized? Can you explain the difference?
• When you are in the midst of goodness, can you like John the Baptist embrace it or does your humanness get in the way?
• Meditate on a time when you were too wrapped up in your own agenda that you missed out on the goodness that was presented to you. What can you do differently so you can be more open to God’s presence?
• John the Baptist pointed to Jesus through his works and actions. What do you do in your daily life to point to Jesus?
• Does your life point others to Jesus or turn people away?
• Do you have a do as I say and not as I do attitude?
• What steps can you take to look at things in a more positive light (glass half full, instead of glass half empty).

 

Closing Prayer – Prayer to the Holy Spirit

Leader:  Come Holy Spirit,

ALL:  fill the hearts of your faithful and kindle in them the fire of your love.

Leader:  Send forth Your Spirit,

 ALL:  and they shall be created. And You shall renew the face of the earth.

Leader:  O God, who by the light of the Holy Spirit,

 ALL:  did instruct the hearts of the faithful,

Leader:  grant by the same Holy Spirit we may be truly wise and ever enjoy His consolations.

ALL:  Through Christ Our Lord.  Amen

 

Challenge for the Week:  When were you baptized?  Where was it?  How old were you?  Who was there?  Are there pictures capturing the event?  Did you wear something special?  Make a point to find out the exact date of your baptism and celebrate it in a special way this year.

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 co-partner 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!

The Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph

 

Opening Prayer

Jesus,

You were born to a mother and father

who loved you and cared for you.

Your birth was celebrated by the

Shepherds and Wise Men.

May we share our gratitude for our parents

and those who celebrate our birth.

Thank you Jesus for teaching us

about the importance of family!

 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14

• What does this scripture tell us about family and how God wants us to treat one another?
• According to scripture, what makes a family strong? Name the riches that a family stores up.

Colossians 3:12-21 or 3:12-17

• On a scale from 1-10, how would you rate yourself as being compassionate, kind, humble, gentle and patient with your family?
• What is the biggest challenge (for you) that this scripture encourages?

Matthew 2:13-15, 19-23

•  Share a time when you felt God protected you from a bad decision or something negative in your life.
• Joseph and Mary had to go to great lengths to protect Jesus.  Name some of the sacrifices you have had to make as a parent for your child…consider the sacrifices your parents made on your behalf too.

 

General Questions for Journaling

• How are families structured differently today than at the time when Jesus was born? Are there also similarities?
• Morals and values are passed onto children from their parents, what are some of the morals and values you pass onto your children?
• What morals and values did your parents pass onto you?
• How does your family count “riches”? Are your beliefs in line with your words and actions?
• Do you allow Jesus to guide your decisions? Share an example of when you did this recently.
• Describe your relationship with your siblings, parents, grandparents. How are they different?  How are they the same?
• What sets your relationship with your family apart from your other relationships?
• Why do you think people say you tend to hurt those you are closer to more than others? How do these scriptures help you form an answer?
• What does family mean to you? Write a poem or draw a picture to express the emotions/feelings.
• Families tend to get together for weddings and funerals…what are other ways families can gather to celebrate? Share some ways you can make these occasions extra special.

 

Closing Prayer

Leader:  When I wake up each morning…

ALL:  let me walk in your ways!

Leader:  As I provide for myself and my family…

 ALL:  let me walk in your ways!

Leader:  When I discern decisions…

 ALL:  let me walk in your ways!

Leader:  As I live out each day…

ALL:  let me walk in your ways!

Leader:  Lord, guide me

ALL:  as I walk in your ways!

 Challenge for the Week:  I love an acronym!  Have you seen this one?  F.A.M.I.L.Y.?  It’s not as popular as the W.W.J.D but to me, it is just as important when I make choices in my life.  This week, spend time thinking about this acronym and how you already live it out in your life and maybe set a plan to be more intentional about it.  (F)orget (A)bout (M)e (I) (L)ove (Y)ou!

AND/OR

One of the things that people struggle with, as a child and as an adult is a sense of belonging.  God gives us family to love and care for us, to teach us right and wrong and the ways of the world.  Sometimes as parents, we can lose focus and get wrapped up in our own things.  When this happens, our children can become victims.  The scriptures remind us about the importance of family…make a point to let your children/parents know that they are loved and seen.  Go out of your way to show your child/parent that you love them and that you know them.  Each of us are born with a desire and need to belong and God gives us one another to satisfy that need…we just don’t always do the best job of expressing our love and gratitude for one another.

Christmas

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.

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.