Daily Prayer

Sunday, January 2nd Readings

Epiphany of the Lord

Opening Prayer

Savior

May I rise each morning

with the fire of Your spirit within me.

May I run toward the light

and find You waiting with anticipation.

May I soak up the splendor of Your love

until it overflows onto all I encounter.

Let me live forever changed

by Your loving presence!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 60 :1-6

  • Where do you see God’s light shining in your life? In your family? In your community? At work?
  • How can you celebrate God’s glory today?
  • What can you do to celebrate God’s glory more often in the coming year?

Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6

  • Can you measure the love of God? The grace of God? The mercy of God? The forgiveness of God? Explain.
  • Describe how you are a co-partner in the promise of Christ.

Matthew 2:1-12

  • How did the magi know, after their long journey, the baby Jesus was the one they had come to see?
  • What can you learn from the magi in this scripture about faith?

General Questions for Journaling

  • What draws people to love God?
  • Where do people go to search for God? Do you think they find Him there?
  • Where are some places people are surprised to find God?
  • What are some things which might keep people from finding God?
  • Do you think you live up to the potential God has in mind for you?
  • Share a time when you witnessed God’s grace at work.
  • Name three gifts which God has given you which are precious to you.
  • Name three gifts which God has given you which are precious to others.
  • Do you think there are gifts you have that have yet to be revealed? Why or why not?
  • Have you ever felt motivated by God to do something which seemed out of the ordinary or ridiculously crazy?
  • Define a pilgrimage. Have you ever been on a pilgrimage? If so, share the experience.
  • What has been the furthest distance you have traveled? What was the purpose of your traveling?
  • What do the stars tell you about God?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, you are a shining light…

ALL:  shine so I might find You in the darkness.

Leader:Lord, you are a shining light…

ALL:  let your light be a beacon when I am weary.

Leader:  Lord, you are a shining light…

 ALL:  spotlight the path I must follow.

Leader:  Lord, you are a shining light…

 ALL:  consume me so others see Your glow within me.

Leader:  Lord, you are a shining light…

ALL:  awaken me to Your radiance!

Challenge for the Week:  God is shining His light on you all the time, even when you aren’t feeling too much like being radiant.  Imagine having a spotlight on you all the time, how would you feel, how might you act differently?  Think about what happens when a spotlight is shone someone, the reaction is to shy away from the light, however there are some who desire for it to shine on them always.  Reflect this week on the difference of God’s light verses the light of the world, primarily thinking about the light being a spotlight.  What does God’s light say?  What does the world’s light say?  What are the things God wants to shine the spotlight on vs. the world?  Then consider what you can do to change which light you seek to shine on you and how you can shine God’s light on others so they might seek to shine in God’s light on their own.

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the Weekly Scripture Journal email list by contacting heather@makingscripturerelevant.com

Sunday, December 26th Readings

Feast of the Holy Family

Opening Prayer

Jesus

I pray with great anxiety

for there are times when I cannot find you.

I search and I search

and often overlook Your presence.

May I be calmed by Your Word

May I be settled by the sound of Your voice

You are there, calling out to me when I am lost

You will never leave!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Sirach 3 :2-6, 12-14

  • Are there those whom you have trouble loving? How does knowing God loves them, help you love them too?
  • Does the love you have for God look the same or different than the love you have for others? Explain

Colossians 3:12-21

  • Where to do you see compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, patience at work in the world? Give an example of each.
  • How do you express these qualities? How often and to whom?

Luke 2:41-52

  • Can you relate to Mary and Joseph in this reading? Can you also relate to Jesus?  What is the difference?
  • Where do you feel welcomed and accepted? What does it look like? Who is also there?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Where does family rate in your life?
  • How do you express your feelings toward your family? Do your actions or your words express your feelings? Explain.
  • What is the purpose of a family? Do you think your family fulfills its purpose?
  • Does God get center reign in your family? Why or why not?  How do you know?
  • What do you present to God as an offering for your commitment to Him?
  • Have you ever bargained with God? What happened?
  • Recall a time when you lost something of great value to you, what was it and what did you do? How did you feel?  Were you able to recover it?  Where did you find it?  Who helped you?
  • Describe what you remember of yourself as a child. What did you look like?  What were some of your favorite things?
  • How are the things you loved as a child, the same or different than now?  Is that good or bad? Why or why not?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Father God, You gave me my first breath

ALL:  because you love me!

Leader:I listen to and follow Your Word

ALL:  because I love You!

Leader:  I learn to accept and forgive

 ALL:  because You ask me to love others!

Leader:  I hold You close

 ALL:  because I love you!

Leader:  I am blessed

ALL:  because you love me!

Challenge for the Week:  The Holy Family was not perfect in the eyes of the world.  Instead, it was made perfect through the eyes of God.  Think about how your family is also made perfect through the eyes of God.  How does this cause you to see others differently?  Are there people whom you will treat differently with this new perspective?  Perhaps there are some whom you need to forgive and welcome back in.  Allow God to make your family perfect!

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the Weekly Scripture Journal email list by contacting heather@makingscripturerelevant.com

Sunday, December 19th Readings

Fourth Sunday of Advent

Opening Prayer

Prince of Peace and Lord of Lords,

I know you will soon be near.

Let me feel your loving presence

and fill my heart and mind with Your love.

May it be my strength, so I can do Your will.

I want to jump for joy so all can see You have come.

Come, to embrace humanity in Your love!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Micah 5:1-4a

  • How has God called you forth? What did He call you out to do? 
  • What gifts has God given to you so you can complete the task He’s called you to do?
  • How is peace described by God?
  • How is peace described in the world?

Hebrews 10:5-10

  • How did Jesus do the will of God?
  • What ONE thing can you change to help you be more like Jesus?
  • How do you prepare your body for the reception of Jesus’ body and blood at communion?

Luke 1:39-45

  • What causes you to leap for joy? What does it look like when you leap for joy?
  • With whom do you share your joy? Do they share the joy with you or disapprove?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Where is God in poverty? Where is God in wealth? Give examples of both.
  • How do you embrace what you have been given?
  • Do you show gratitude even when it is not what you expected it to be?
  • When have you been disappointed in what you have been given? Are your expectations to blame for this? Be specific.
  • What would you say is the overall mission of all Christians?
  • What do you sacrifice for the sake of faith/religion/God?
  • Reflect on a time when you opened your doors to welcome another. What was the circumstance? How was hospitality shown? Was it easy or difficult?
  • When were you shown hospitality from another? What made you feel welcomed?
  • Light shown the way to where Jesus could be found, how are you shining light for others to find their way to Jesus?
  • Mary visits her cousin and Joseph travels with his family to their place of origin; what message can you derive from the parents of Jesus spending time with family before His birth? Do you think there is significance?  If so, why and if not, why not?
  • How are you drawn to family (like Mary) or where you come from (like Joseph) this holiday season?
  • What can you do to be more connected to family (and friends) this year?
  • Who are the family members you will miss this year and what is it about them that you will miss? Is there a way you can be close to them in your celebration, even though you can’t physically be together?

Closing Prayer

Leader: When I am weary…

ALL:  Lord Jesus, You give me strength.

Leader: When I am alone…

ALL:  Lord Jesus, You come to me.

Leader: When I have no place to go…

 ALL:  Lord Jesus, You show me the way.

Leader:  When darkness surrounds us…

 ALL:  Lord Jesus, You shine light on the path.

Leader:  Be the star which guides my way…

ALL:  bright as the star that shone to lead the wise men to You!

Challenge for the Week:  The birth of a child is a significant moment in not only their life, but in the life of those around them.  As you hear the stories of preparation before Jesus’ birth in scripture and sing along to the Christmas Carols telling of the baby in the manger, recall the special births you have been a part of in your life.  Perhaps it includes memories of your own children, grandchildren, or other family members and/or friends’ children.  Recall the special preparations that took place prior to their birth, what the circumstances of their birth were and your role within.  Reflect on who was there and the emotions you felt, and maybe even share a special memory with them if you can, telling them of the experience.  Of course, you can’t remember the details of your own birth, but you might have been told some stories, enough to be able to reminisce on the occasion.  Consider how each of these births (Jesus, family, friends, yourself) have impacted you and your life.  What role do you continue to play in their lives and visa versa? 

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the Weekly Scripture Journal email list by contacting heather@makingscripturerelevant.com

Sunday, December 12th Readings

Third Sunday of Advent

Opening Prayer

O my people,

Sing with joy!

Sound the trumpets!

Awake!

Bring peace!

Shout out;

the Savior is coming!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Zephaniah 3:14-18a

  • What keeps you from jumping for joy as you hear this scripture?
  • Draw a picture of what you see happening in this scripture. Who is there?  What colors would you use to paint the scene?
  • The scripture says, God will rejoice over you. How do you think He rejoices?

Philippians 4: 4-7

  • How do you make your petitions known to God? Do you only focus on what you want/need? How do you make the community prayers known?
  • What keeps you from rejoicing the Lord always? Identify three specific things.
  • What keeps you from showing kindness to all? Is it in your control to change this?

Luke 3:10-18

  • Who do you turn to seeking direction? Who do you ask, “what should I do”?
  • How big is your circle of influence (the people you ask for help determining God’s will in your life), who is included, are there people who should be included who are not, are there people whom you should reconsider?
  • Who are those who turn to you for guidance in answering the big questions about life, love and faith?

General Questions for Journaling

  • How do you celebrate God? Jesus? Holy Spirit? Do you celebrate them as one or have special ways of honoring each?
  • When was the last time you shared the “Good News” with another person in everyday conversation?
  • On a scale from 1-10 how comfortable are you sharing your faith with others?
  • How does God show you He is present?
  • Are there places where you feel more at ease to share the “Good News” of Jesus?
  • How does the church’s celebration of Advent/Christmas and Lent/Easter help open the door for you to share your faith?
  • How do you “cry out with joy or gladness”?
  • Do you think, “cry out with gladness” is an oxymoron like “jumbo shrimp”? Explain.
  • How much of your heart and mind would you say God consumes? Draw a picture to illustrate what consumes your heart and mind; be honest.
  • Are there places you will not go because you fear God is not there? Is there something you can do to overcome this fear?
  • How do you let go of anxiety and stress?
  • How often do you find yourself in a state of worry or overwhelmed with stress?  Do you think it is too much, just right or not enough?
  • Is generosity taught? How does a person learn to be generous?
  • Where is God calling you to show generosity today?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  When anxiety and fear overtake you…

ALL:  Be still the Lord is near.

Leader:When judgement and accusations fill you…

ALL:  Be still the Lord is near.

Leader:  When weariness and fatigue consume you…

ALL:  Be still the Lord is near.

Leader:  When you have no more to give…

 ALL:  Be still the Lord is near.

Leader:  He is waiting for you with open arms…

ALL:  Be still the Lord is near.

Challenge for the Week:  When the President of the United States enters a room; “Hail to the Chief” can be heard.  This week reflect on what song would play when God/Jesus/Holy Spirit enters the room.  What instruments would be playing, harps?  What does a “Choir of Angels” sound like?  Does it sound like a strong wind? Gentle breeze?  The sound of the waves crashing or lapping on the shore?  A trickling stream?  There are many possibilities but spend time exploring each of them until you find the right combination of sounds that expresses how you feel when you encounter God/Jesus/Holy Spirit. 

Then, perhaps even more challenging, determine YOUR song.  What would you have play as you enter into a room?  What instruments would be used?  What is the tune?  Is it something familiar or original? Who would sing it?  And if there are words, what do they say?

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the Weekly Scripture Journal email list by contacting heather@makingscripturerelevant.com

Sunday, December 5th Readings

Second Sunday of Advent

Opening Prayer

Jesus

When my day is filled with activity;

may I remember not to get wrapped up in the busyness.

When I face a long list of tasks;

may I not become consumed in the hustle and bustle.

Instead, help me to take time to spend a quiet moment with you

and watch for you in hopeful anticipation!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Baruch 5 :1-9

  • What do you put on yourself each day like a robe? What do you allow others to put on you?
  • What does God robe you with? Do you feel comfortable with what God puts on you? Why or why not?
  • How is what God puts on you different or similar to what you or others put on you? Explain.

Philippians 1:4-6, 8-11

  • How can you “partner” with the Gospel? What does that look like?
  • Where do you see God’s Glory? Where do you feel it? Can you hear it or taste it or smell it?
  • Can you name at least five good works God began in you? Can you list ten?

Luke 3:1-6

  • How is your life proclaiming the Gospel?
  • How does the Word of God come from you?
  • Describe three ways you relate to the words from the Prophet Isaiah.
  • How does this scripture speak of your life’s journey?

General Questions for Journaling

  • How does the awareness of God’s presence affect your decisions? How often do you allow God to affect your decisions?
  • When you make decisions; do you seek God’s perspective?
  • How does God lead you to find joy? How often do you search for it?
  • Do you pray for joy? Write a prayer for joy.
  • How does God show affection? Do you have to ask for it or does God show it freely? Describe the last time you felt loved by God.
  • What is God a witness to in your life? How are you a witness to God?
  • In a 24-hour period, on average, how often are you a witness to God?
  • Do you believe God can “make paths straight” and “move mountains” and “part the waters” and “level the valleys”? Why or why not?  Share an example of time when you were witness to this happening.
  • Is there a time when you felt so overwhelmed you cried out to God and your faith lead you through?
  • Make a list of images of God’s power and draw a picture of one.
  • Where do you see the hope of Christ in the world today? Where do you see hope in your community? In your family?
  • What is the purpose of having hope? What value do you put on it?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Awaken the gifts;

ALL:  the gifts we have before us!

Leader:  Enliven the joy;

ALL:  the joy within each soul!

Leader:  Ignite the hope;

ALL:  the hope around us!

Leader: Revive the peace;

ALL:  the peace deep within!

Leader:  Kindle the love;

ALL:  the love which brings us together!

Challenge for the Week:  Consider how God planted in you all the gifts you will ever need to bring Him glory and share His love with others.  How are you sharing these gifts?  Do you believe all your gifts have been opened?  Perhaps there are a few gifts left under the tree (within you) unopened; full of new and unimaginable opportunities and experiences.  As you go about your week, ponder the gifts you have been given which help you bring Glory to God and share His love.  Force yourself to go the extra step and dream about gifts you would need to possess so you can bring more attention to God.  What does that look like?  Are those gifts already opened in your life and you have discarded them or left them in the box?  Awaken to the possibilities on your journey.  God always gives what you need and He gives the BEST gifts!

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the Weekly Scripture Journal email list by contacting heather@makingscripturerelevant.com

Sunday, November 28th Readings

First Sunday of Advent

Opening Prayer

Father

You created me to love,

so I can give Your love.

You showed me how to love,

So I can spread Your love.

Please continue to teach me, mold me, and open me

until Your love is spread throughout the world!

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

Jeremiah 33 :14-16

  • How do the promises of Christ live out/on in your life?
  • What has God risen up in your life? How do you show gratitude for it?

1 Thessalonians 3:12-4:2

  • How can you strengthen your heart? What exercises are needed to build up your heart?
  • Do you know the instructions God has given to you?  If so, what are they?  If not, what can you do to learn what instructions God has for you?

Luke 21:25-28, 34-36

  • How do you see/imagine Jesus coming?
  • How does Jesus return each day of your life?

General Questions for Journaling

  • What is the difference between full of mercy and full of grace?
  • How does God bring justice to the world?
  • Where does your security come from?
  • When do you feel the safest?
  • What can you rely on? What is consistent in your life?
  • How has your life been blessed because of your faith in God?
  • Do you believe in God because you fear Him? Why or why not?
  • What do you need to do to be more holy?
  • Identify a synonym for holy?
  • What good has come from a recent struggle you experienced?
  • Are there things which cause your stress? What is it about these things that make you anxious?
  • Is there something you are anticipating right now?
  • Write a prayer asking God for strength.

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Find me seeking You in my daily schedule…

ALL:  I am ready!

Leader:  Find me seeking You in the highs and lows…

ALL:  I am ready!

Leader:  Find me seeking You in the decisions I make…

ALL:  I am ready!

Leader: Find me seeking You in the joys and sorrows…

ALL:  I am ready!

Leader:  Find me seeking You every minute of the day…

ALL:  I am ready!

Challenge for the Week:  The holiday season brings added expectations.  It’s a time when schedules fill up with extra activities with the kids at school, planning and attending gatherings of family and friends and as a Christian, you have the extra stress of trying to keep Jesus as the reason for the season.  It appears the scriptures this week with their warning about not getting drowsy is extremely timely!  The time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is ideally supposed to be spent reflecting on the people and things for which you are grateful and sharing in memorable moments giving gifts everyone loves.  In an attempt for people to meet this ideal season, many people can find themselves overwhelmed and stressed out.  The Catholic Church provides a solution, Advent.  Instead of looking at the long road ahead full of crowded shopping centers and depleting bank accounts, embrace the gift of the Advent Season.  When the world is screaming Christmas, look at the red everywhere as a clue to STOP.  And open yourself up to the colors of Advent, purple and pink, calling you to slow down and seek refuge from the chaos.  When your calendar is so filled with holiday expectations, you risk getting weary and becoming drowsy.  This is what the scripture warns you against.  Take advantage of the Advent Season to prepare yourself and your family for the coming of Jesus.  Look at your holiday calendar and determine what you MUST say YES to and then say NO to anything else that comes up along the way.  Be sure to put on your calendar time to participate in Advent activities such as gathering around the Advent wreath daily for prayer.  It’s a gift you will be glad you gave yourself and your family.

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the Weekly Scripture Journal email list by contacting heather@makingscripturerelevant.com

Sunday, November 21st Readings

Solemnity of Christ the King

Opening Prayer

Christ the King

Let me come to you in the morning;

at the beginning of my day,

so I can consciously take you with me.

Let me come to you in the daytime;

in the middle of the day,

so I can stay connected to you.

Let me come to you in the evening;

at the end of the day,

so I can review the day together.

Jesus, help me to be mindful of you throughout the day!

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

Daniel 7 :13-14

  • What does this scripture tell you about the majesty of God? How is this description similar or different than how you define the majesty of God?
  • How does God have dominion over you in your life? It is something that comes naturally or do you have to work to allow God to move, guide and direct you? Explain.

Revelations 1:5-8

  • Jesus is a faithful witness. What would you say Jesus is a faithful witness of?
  • Are you a faithful witness to Jesus? How? Be specific.
  • How does it make you feel being told in scripture that Jesus will come again for the sake of everyone? Identify what Jesus means by everyone.
  • How does this understanding affect your words and actions in the world right now? Is it reflected in the decisions you make and how you live your life? Share examples.

John 18:33b-37

  • Pilate is listening to the crowd and following the majority. When have you listened to the majority and followed the crowd?
  • What kept those who loved Jesus from standing up for him?
  • Share a time when you stood up for Jesus.

General Questions for Journaling

  • Describe the kingdom of God. Are these hopes of what you expect it to be or understanding from someplace else that this is what the kingdom of God really is?
  • How is God’s kingdom similar or different than the kingdoms of the old centuries? How is it similar or different from those who govern the countries of the world today?
  • When can you first remember thinking about Jesus?
  • What was the last “project” you started and finished? How long did it take? Were feelings of accomplishments associated with the completion? Did you experience any setbacks? Will you do it again?
  • Are there areas in your life which you are proud of? Would Jesus also be proud of those things?
  • How do you know when someone is lying to you? Is it subjective or objective?  What do you do about it?
  • Could you describe Jesus’ voice? Do you think it is the same all the time? Do you think Jesus’ voice sounds different to different people?
  • Does your home reflect your faith? Share an example.
  • How do the things you post (or like) on social media fall in line with what you say you believe in?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  The injustice that happens each day…

ALL:  You are called to see.

Leader:  The cries of those in need and hurting…

ALL:  You are called to listen.

Leader:  The forgotten, the lost and the forsaken…

ALL:  You are called to love.

Leader: The stranger and the neighbor…

ALL:  You are called to help.

Leader:  Broken but mended by the power of faith…

ALL:  You are called children of God.

Challenge for the Week:  Jesus was consistent in faith throughout his time on earth.  Stories of Jesus as a child reflect how he was faithful to his studies and loved being among the elders of the church to learn.  Jesus modeled for all how to live faithfully, by accepting everyone and teaching the faith through works of service to others.  Even up to death, Jesus stood strong in faith and wasn’t going to back down or blasphemy to save himself.  In the Catholic Church, a new liturgical year begins which means, as believers there is yet another opportunity to reflect, repent and renew our faithfulness.  No matter how dedicated or committed to faith a person is, one can always benefit from a self-evaluation of faithfulness to stay focused on the journey to the Kingdom of God!

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the Weekly Scripture Journal email list by contacting heather@makingscripturerelevant.com

Sunday, November 14th Readings

33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord

Why do I search in all the wrong places to find you?

When I look in the darkness,

You are not there.

When I look behind, above and below,

You are not there.

You are in all things at all times,

yet I struggle to find you!

Thank you for not turning away;

Thank you for your grace, love and mercy;

Thank you!  Thank you!  Thank you!

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

Daniel 12 :1-3

  • What qualities do you learn are important to have as a witness of Christ through this scripture? Do you possess any of them? If so, which ones? If not, what can you do to build up these qualities within?
  • Who are “stars” who shine brightly? Are there people in your life who let God’s light shine and worked toward justice? Can you name some people in history who have been examples of “stars”?
  • How might your life be different if you followed the stars?

Hebrews 10:11-14, 18

  • Why is sacrifice needed? What sacrifice(s) do you make for your relationship with God?
  • How does one become perfect in Christ? Is this even possible? Why or why not?
  • Consider, through the words of this scripture, the importance of the sacrifice of Mass. What is happening at Mass and do we understand the meaning as it is happening?

Mark 13:24-32

  • What is Jesus telling you about what you can take with you when you die? How does this change how you think of material things? How does this change how you might spend the rest of your life?
  • Does this scripture cause you fear or another emotion? What emotion do you think Jesus wants you to feel?

General Questions for Journaling

  • In the past week, where did you see God’s light shine? Who did it shine through?
  • Where do you turn for comfort when you are in distress? Is God there?
  • Would you consider yourself a leader or a follower? Why?
  • What was the last thing you took the lead on? Who was it for? What was the task? How did it turn out?
  • What kind of leader are you or would you be? Why?
  • How can you make your sins go away? What do you do to ensure you don’t ever sin again?
  • What does God do or can God do to help you defeat sin?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Though I am a sinner;

ALL:  You made one sacrifice for my sins.

Leader:  Though I are ignorant;

ALL:  You continue to teach me your ways.

Leader:  Though I often lose direction;

ALL:  You continue to guide me on the right path.

Leader:  Though I waste much;

ALL:  You continue to give me what we need.

Leader:  Though I continue to fall short;

ALL:  You continue to build me up.

ALL:  Thank you Lord, for your constant love!

Challenge for the Week:  Attend Mass.  It really doesn’t matter if you do it on the weekend or during the week, the outcome is the same…you have witnessed a living sacrifice.  What does this even mean?  Well, when you go to Mass, it shouldn’t be just out of obligation so you can get it checked off your “to do list” or because you get to see friends or enjoy coffee and donuts afterwards.  Nor should you attend Mass and not be an active participant.  Mass is the “shortened” version of what is actually called the “Holy Sacrifice of the Mass” where Catholics come together to remember the sacrifice Jesus made for all.  This act of love is monumental and deserves a response from each person who gathers to remember it.  Jesus died for everyone and in return believers should sacrifice something each time they take the Eucharist.  Those who receive the Eucharist, receives a piece of Jesus, this is how you become more like Him!  So, go and make a sacrifice this week.  Leave behind the grumpy, negative, judgmental part of you and let the joyful, positive and accepting light of Jesus shine through!

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the Weekly Scripture Journal email list by contacting heather@makingscripturerelevant.com

Sunday, November 7th Readings

32nd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Father in heaven,

Each day I work hard to please you

but this is not what you ask of me.

You ask for me to love you with all my heart.

You ask me to find you in others.

and want me to share your love.

Love you and share your love…this is what you ask;

Help me to stay focused on the goals you have for me.

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

1 Kings 17:10-16

  • What does the widow do to receive the generosity of another?
  • Are there only a few people whom you would sacrifice the last of something for or would you sacrifice the same for a stranger/anybody?
  • What is God saying to you in this scripture about being ready to accept Him into your life?

Hebrews 9:24-28

  • What is the significance of one sacrifice?
  • How does one find salvation according to this scripture?
  • What is the core message you hear in this scripture? Each person will hear something differently according to their experience…share!

Mark 12:38-44

  • What is Jesus telling you about giving? Is He only talking about money to the church? Be specific.
  • What are the two types of people Jesus is referring to in this scripture? What characteristics are being highlighted as good and bad? Where would you rate yourself on the scale?
  • How are you like the widow? In what ways do you want to be more like the widow?

General Questions for Journaling

  • What do you have that never runs empty?
  • What do you have that limits you?
  • Is there anything you wouldn’t give away? What would it be and why?
  • Define generous spirit. Would you say you have a generous spirit? Why or why not?
  • Share a time when you recently did something for another person. Did they ask you to do it or did you do it because you saw a need.
  • What is the difference between doing something you are asked to do and doing something because you saw a need?
  • What is needed to create a habit of giving? Do you have these qualities?  Who do you know has them?
  • What good comes from helping others?
  • Are there always rewards for doing good things?
  • When you think of what God brings to your relationship and what you bring, do you think God is measuring like you do? Why or why not?
  • What do you think God is saying about what you bring to your relationship?
  • Is generosity about how much you give or how you give? What is the difference?
  • Make a list of the things God love most about you.
  • How do you define a “leap of faith”, share some examples.

Closing Prayer

Leader:  When I am held up at a red light…

ALL:  Help me make room for YOU!

Leader:  When I give up control of the remote…

ALL:  Help me make room for YOU!

Leader:  When I let someone else choose…

ALL:  Help me make room for YOU!

Leader: When I hold my tongue…

ALL:  Help me make room for YOU!

Leader: When I sacrifice time or money for another…

ALL:  Help me make room for YOU!

Challenge for the Week:  Jesus uses the widow woman to show how one gives from the heart, all they can possibly give.  This week, make a point to not just do the minimum needed or required of whatever task is in front of you.  Give a little more effort in preparing the meal for your family, take a bit more time enjoying the beauty of the colors of fall, and be more attentive when your spouse is telling you about the events of the day…whatever you have in front of you, give yourself completely.

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the Weekly Scripture Journal email list by contacting heather@makingscripturerelevant.com

Sunday, October 31st Readings

31st Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord

Teach me what it means to love.

Show me how to serve.

Give me the strength to do both!

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

Deuteronomy 6:2-6

  • What do you hear God saying in this scripture? How is your message different than others? How is it the same?
  • Share examples of where you see following God’s commandments are good.
  • Share examples of where you see following God’s commandments are bad.

Hebrews 7:23-28

  • What does this scripture teach you about the Eucharist? Is this an old or a new insight?
  • How does this scripture help you understand how sacrifice is good? Does it make you more or less willing to make a sacrifice for God? For others?
  • What is God calling you to sacrifice right now?

Mark 12:28b-34

  • How does Jesus determine or measure our nearness to the kingdom of God according to this scripture?
  • Does loving God come easy? Why or why not?
  • Describe God’s love. What words do you use? 
  • Do you love God the same way He loves you? Why or why not?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Does love have a capacity? Explain
  • How does God love vs how you love? Is it different? Is it the same?
  • Imagine your heart. Draw a picture of it and then write down the things that you carry in your heart. Is your heart big enough to carry all of those things and be able to love God too?
  • How does having God in your life make your life better?
  • Where do you see God’s presence? In your home? Your spouse? Your kids? Neighbors? Co-workers? Fellow parishioners? Be specific.
  • What does it mean to you when people pray for you? What does it mean for you to pray for others?
  • Do you believe those who have passed can provide you support, understanding and companionship? Why or why not?
  • How do you put God above others? Give an example.
  • What do you do to “work” on your relationship with God?
  • Shouldn’t love come easy?  What makes loving God or others or yourself difficult?
  • Do you feel you know God? Understand Jesus? Are connected to the Holy Spirit? What kind of things can you do to deepen your relationship with each part of the Holy Trinity?
  • What significance does scripture, tradition and sacrifice have on your relationship with God? What significance do these things have on your personal relationship with others?
  • Explain how the Eucharist is an expression of love.

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, come live in me…

ALL:  so I can understand the sacrifice of love.

Leader:  Lord, come live in me…

ALL:  so I can teach others through my actions.

Leader:  Lord, come live in me…

 ALL:  so I can give hope by sharing the Gospel.

Leader:  Lord, come live in me…

ALL:  so I can be a place of refuge.

Leader:  Lord, come live in me…

ALL:  so I can become more like YOU!

Challenge for the Week: Jesus took the 10 commandments and condensed them into simpler language for people to understand.  He didn’t change the message of what the commandments say, the tasks are still the same.  Just because the language is simpler, what God wants you and I to do is not simpler. 

Take the first piece, “love God with all your heart, mind and soul.”  When you think about loving God, it’s easy to think, oh yeah, that is no problem!  However, do you give God you ALL?  Jesus says to love with ALL your heart, mind and soul but many times in your lifetime, you can find you’ve turned your back on God and not acknowledged God for the blessings in your life, either because you forget or get busy or dismiss the blessings as things you deserve.  This request isn’t so easy after all.

Then the second part of the message is to, “love your neighbor as yourself” which comes with a long list of obstacles.  First and foremost, can you say you love yourself?  If you can, then you’re halfway there but if you can’t say that you love yourself, then you’ve gotta figure out how to do that so then you can begin the work of loving others. 

Is it even possible to love God and love others equally AND love ourselves too?  This is what God wants from you and even though it is hard the relationship you have with the Holy Trinity can give insight.  Spend time this week reflecting on the commandments through the lens of the Holy Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, then apply what you learn to living them out!

GET CONNECTED DAILY!  Find more reflections and prayers at Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.  Join the Weekly Scripture Journal email list by contacting heather@makingscripturerelevant.com