Sunday, October 2nd Readings

27th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Father

Sometimes when I look at the world around me,

I want to cry because of all the hurt.

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

There are days when I want to

give up, surrender, hide away

because the road ahead is too hard.

Give me the strength to seek YOU…

to have just a little faith

so I can make a difference!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

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

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

2Timothy 1:6-8, 13-14

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

Luke 17:5-10

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

General Questions for Journaling

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

Closing Prayer

Leader: When I feel trampled

ALL: you come to pick me up!

Leader: When I am in need

ALL: you find a way to satisfy!

Leader: When I call out to you

ALL: you listen to my plea!

Leader: When I hold back

ALL: you urge me to give more!

Leader: When I surrender

ALL: you give abundantly!

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

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

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

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

Discipleship 5K: A Physical and Spiritual Journey to the Cross by Heather Neds, author of the Weekly Scripture Journal is more than a book, it is a guide to becoming a stronger disciple. Grab and copy and start the journey!

Sunday, September 25th Readings

26th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord

It is not wrong to desire nice things

or to work for a better life.

Let me not get consumed by these things

or allow them to be my focus.

Keep me humble so I might know

it is YOU who give me what I need.

Help m remember to share what I have

with all whom I meet for You are there!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Amos 6:1a, 4-7

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

1Timothy 6:11-16

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

Luke 16:19-31

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

General Questions for Journaling

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

Closing Prayer

Leader: When I feel trampled

ALL: you come to pick me up!

Leader: When I am in need

ALL: you find a way to satisfy!

Leader: When I call out to you

ALL: you listen to my plea!

Leader: When I hold back

ALL: you urge me to give more!

Leader: When I surrender

ALL: you give abundantly!

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

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

Sunday, September 18th Readings

25th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord

How can I help my neighbor?

I can barely care for myself.

What do I have to offer?

I don’t have any more to spare.

Lead me to find the resources

I need to care not only for myself

but for others too!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Amos 8:4-7

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

1Timothy 2:1-8

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

Luke 16:1-13

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

General Questions for Journaling

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

Closing Prayer

Leader: When I feel trampled

ALL: you come to pick me up!

Leader: When I am in need

ALL: you find a way to satisfy!

Leader: When I call out to you

ALL: you listen to my plea!

Leader: When I hold back

ALL: you urge me to give more!

Leader: When I surrender

ALL: you give abundantly!

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

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

Sunday, September 11th Readings

24th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord of immense patience

How can I learn from you?

Where can I go to find patience?

Is it within my reach?

What can I do to cultivate more?

Why can’t I seem to wait?

Be with me Lord,

I cannot do it on my own!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Exodus 32: 7-11, 13-14

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

1 Timothy 1:12-17

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

Luke 15: 1-32

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

General Questions for Journaling

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

Closing Prayer

Leader: Thank you Lord

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

Leader: Thank you Lord

ALL: For you never leave me, a sinner!

Leader: Thank you Lord

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

Leader: Thank you Lord

ALL: For you never for me, a sinner!

Leader: Thank you Lord

ALL: For you never forsake me, a sinner!

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

Sunday, September 4th Readings

23rd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Jesus,

You must have immense patience

to listen to me whine and complain

about my suffering and pain.

I am so naive.

You have heard every excuse but still I give them.

The promise of peace, forgiveness, and mercy

doesn’t seem to be enough for me to let go.

May Your WORD today help me to finally surrender!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Wisdom 9:13-18

Do you find it difficult to trust in God? How would you rate your trust in God on a 1-10 scale? How does this make you feel? How would God rate your trust in Him?
Can you, with confidence, tell others what God has planned for you? Why or why not?
What do you know for sure about your faith? About your purpose? About the promises of Christ?

Philemon 9-10, 12-17

St. Paul expresses deep abiding love which brings about change in another person. How can you express love that can cause change in another person?
Onesimus is a slave who becomes free. Is there something in your life to which you are a slave? What can you do to become free?

Luke 14:25-33

Does having nice possessions make you a bad person? Are you supposed to sell all of your worldly goods? What would God say is a healthy balance in discipleship?
What does discipleship cost? What does it call you to be? What does it call you to do?

General Questions for Journaling

What are some things that you don’t understand or that you question about life, your purpose, the government, the church?
Have you ever had a plan which was executed perfectly? What causes you to have to change your plan? How do you feel when there is not a plan?
Are there times when you need a plan and when you don’t want a plan? How are those different?
What can you do to learn more about the plan God has for you? How will you know it is God’s plan?
How can the phrase, “Let Go, Let God” be put into action with a situation in your life right now?
Are there ways in which you feel imprisoned or enslaved by your faith?
Are there ways in which you feel imprisoned or enslaved by the world?
Draw a heart. Write within it, all that fills your heart.
Do your words and actions show God your greatest love? Why or why not?
Is there something in your life that you cannot live without? Make a list.
What cross(es) do you carry? Are any of these crosses self-imposed? What can you do to change this?
How do you manage the pain and suffering in your life? Is it in the same manner as Christ carried His? Why or why not? How might you need to change?
What do you cling to? Are the things you cling to the same things that keep you from surrendering completely to God?
What does your cross include? Are there days when it is lighter/heavier than others?
Does everyone have the same size cross to bear? Do they all look the same?
Picking up your cross to carry it is a choice. Are there days when you choose NOT to pick it up? Explain.
Who are the people who have helped you carry your cross? Have you ever told them how much you appreciate their help?
Could you live without possessions and only live in Christ? Are there examples of people who have lived in this way?
Make a list of the resources you use and have at your disposal in order to finish the race, build the tower and live with purpose?

Closing Prayer

Leader: May I seek the path to YOU

ALL: even when I cannot stand on my own;

Leader: May I seek the path to YOU

ALL: when the clouds cover my eyes;

Leader: May I seek the path to YOU

ALL: in the midst of the storm;

Leader: May I seek the path to YOU

ALL: on the best and worst of days;

Leader: May I seek the path to YOU

ALL: even when none can be found.

Challenge for the Week: The theme of humility carries into this week’s readings. You can often get busy with day-to-day tasks or obligations that you can become stressed or overwhelmed; especially if you don’t keep God close to you. This week, as you go about your day, pray the serenity prayer often (God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference). Perhaps keeping this prayer on the tip of your tongue each day will help bring you the perspective God is seeking for you to have.

Bountiful Rain

During the month of July, there were only 3 days that did not reach 100 degrees where I live. I’m not complaining because I know that everywhere in the world has experienced hotter than normal temperatures, to the point where it has created a variety of problems. I heard that in England, they do not have air conditioning, so this heat wave has caused many businesses to change their hours of operation or close temporarily to keep their employees safe.

I suppose it wouldn’t be so bad if there was also rain in the forecast, but the hot weather and no rain just makes the problems compound. Specifically, where I live, the county is urging residents to conserve water and energy by limiting days when you can water your lawn and suggesting you turn off and unplug things that are not in use. In an attempt to water as much as I can, that one day a week, I went to buy a soaker hose so I could water the ground along the foundation of my house to try to prevent cracks in the foundation.

The water levels in the lakes and rivers are way down which is having a negative effect on those small-town businesses that count on the summer boom of people floating the river. I was looking forward to attending an annual Jet Ski Festival/Competition in a neighboring town, but it was cancelled due to low water. I imagine that festival is one of those events the town hosts that brings in enough revenue to carry them and without that income, the negative effects can compound on people’s livelihoods.

Then, the low water levels also means that water is getting trapped, and the stagnant water is growing algae which adds a whole other layer of issues. Places where people might gather around rivers and lakes to boat, ski, kayak, or paddle board, are now limited. And the evaporating water leaves behind dried algae that really doesn’t smell very pleasant, not to mention some of the dead fish that were trapped. It begins to look pretty dismal.

And the lack of rain and high temperatures aren’t just wreaking havoc on the rivers and lakes, but also the earth in general. On my walks, I see places on the paths where the ground has cracked, and along the sidewalks the grass is pulling away from the edge of the concrete. Some of the cracks have become so big that my foot could fit into the separation. It reminds me of the scene in the animated movie, The Land Before Time, when the earth split, and a baby dinosaur is on one side and his mother is on the other.

The other day I passed a neighbor who said she was tired of this heat and was thinking of learning the rain dance to bring some relief. Of course, this weather condition could quickly turn around and before you know it everyone could be worried and complaining about that there is too much rain causing flood conditions and damage. This is a real concern in Texas because it doesn’t rain very much and when it does, it doesn’t soak into the earth, it rushes over it. Flash floods are a legitimate concern in this area of the country.

I think there are many nuggets of wisdom in this real-world situation to teach about faith. For one, it is to be grateful for whatever it is that comes your way today. It might be too hot, it might be too wet, it might be too something, but there is goodness in it, no matter what. Another is to look at it as a lesson in patience; to learn to wait on what you need. Yet, another is to surrender, recognizing that you do not have control of the temperature or when it will rain, or any other type of weather catastrophe.

So for now, I embrace these lessons to be grateful, to be patient and to surrender. In the meantime, I will give thanks for what I do have and to look at this time of desert conditions as a part of the restoration that is necessary for the earth to prosper. Just as in my lifetime, I will endure many seasons, the earth must also as the earth’s creator is also my own. And after all, this earth is a gift from God and the place I call home; so I choose to rejoice and be glad, even in the hard times. The rain will come, remain faithful my friends!

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

Discipleship 5K: A Physical and Spiritual Journey to the Cross by Heather Neds. It’s more than a book, rather a guide to becoming a stronger disciple through physical and spiritual exercises. Get your copy and begin the journey!

Sunday, August 28th Readings

22nd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord,

YOU call out to me, and I come near.

YOU give me a heart of flesh to love.

YOU give me hands to reach out to help.

YOU give me the will to choose to follow.

May I never lose sight of ALL YOU give,

and always be grateful YOU are there

to give me what I need. AMEN!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Sirach 3:17-18, 20, 28-29

What does the scripture say about who you are as a child of God? Would you describe yourself this way? Why or why not?
How does someone learn to be humble? What does this scripture say one should do?
How does this definition of humility fit with people who are blind, crippled or poor?

Hebrews 12:18-19, 22-24a

St Paul uses many adjectives in this reading, write down some of your favorite and describe how these words make you feel.
What is a covenant? What is the difference between the old covenant and the new covenant?
Does this scripture scare you or bring you comfort?
Pick one of the metaphors and meditate on it. What does it look like? How does it make you feel? How does it apply to your life (now or in the past).

Luke 14:1, 7-14

Jesus models how ALL are invited to the banquet. When was the last time you welcomed the stranger, the blind, the lame, the poor or the crippled to the banquet?
Have you experienced a time in your life when you were blind, poor, lame or crippled? What caused this?

General Questions for Journaling

How do you define humility? Where does it come from? How is it achieved?
Write your own definition of the word Humility. Reflect on what the Bible says about the word. Consider the root of the word, “humus” in Latin has connection to “ground, earth and soil” and how this compares or contrasts with your definition.
What does humility look like in our world/society today?
Do you personally know someone who you would describe as humble? Who is that person and what other characteristics do they emulate? How do they show humility?
Are there people in your life whom you need to attend to? Do they need a listening ear? Words of comfort or advice?
What kinds of gifts does God give? Have you ever received a bad gift from God? Are there bad gifts? Have you ever received a bad gift? Have you ever given one?
Have you ever been given a gift which you didn’t open or use? Are you using the gifts God has given? Are there gifts you still haven’t opened?
Do you like when someone acknowledges you with a note, card, or gift? What about when they remember a special date or something important going on in your life? How do you feel?
The word covenant is rarely used in today’s language. Do people still make covenants? Do they still hold value in today’s society?
What was the last covenant you entered? Does it still hold true? Has it changed or adapted in anyway?
Are you bound by anything? What binds you? Why? Is it good or bad? Does it need to change? What would happen if it did?
Do you treat everyone equally? Do you include everyone? Do you show favoritism towards people while ignoring others?
When was the last time you felt valued? What have you done lately to show others in your life that they are valued? What can you do to show the poor, the lame, the blind and the crippled that they are valued?
Have you experienced a time when you didn’t feel worthy to be invited to the banquet? How did this feel? What would Jesus say to you if you said you didn’t feel worthy?
What does it feel like to be the guest of honor? Do you need help getting to the banquet? What are you doing to help others get to the banquet?

Closing Prayer – inspired by Colossians 3:12

Leader: Chosen by God…

ALL: to be compassionate!

Leader: Chosen by God…

ALL: to be kind!

Leader: Chosen by God…

ALL: to be humble!

Leader: Chosen by God…

ALL: to be gentle!

Leader: Chosen by God…

ALL: to be patient!

Leader: Chosen by God…

ALL: to be LOVED!

Challenge for the Week: In a world that puts so much focus on “I” and “ME” it’s no wonder humility is hard to find. There are stories about people spending over their means only to impress others with their name brand clothes and the car they drive. More stories of those who spend hours getting tummies tucked and plastic surgery to “fix” what they believe are flaws in how they were created. The stories go on and on including people of all ages being bullied, shunned and some even killed because another person doesn’t think they live up to specific standards. It is hard to push away insecurities brought on by media or the opinion of others to be considered “cool” or “acceptable.” It is easily forgotten that God doesn’t create junk and you are wonderfully made. God says you are chosen and loved, just the way you are and doesn’t ask for you to do anything to impress Him. You are only asked to follow in His steps and accept and love one another, just as God created them. It is when you stop worrying about impressing others with material things and embrace God’s opinion of yourself that you can find humility. You can truly understand that life is “not all about me”, rather it is all about “we” and how to put God first in your life. Take time this week to consider what you do in order to impress others (words or actions) or how you change yourself (words or actions) in order to fit into a group of people at work/school. AND then pray to see what God wants you to do about it! Remember, God is the only one you should try to impress 😉

He Disciplines

You might think that discipline is a bad thing, primarily because it is what parents do to correct their children’s bad behavior. However, discipline is something you do every day, such as maintaining the speed limit or holding your tongue and not lashing out at your boss. You might even discipline yourself by limiting your caffeine intake or setting an alarm to remind you to take a walk break. Discipline is not a bad thing; it is simply a practice to change behavior.

When you choose to change your behavior, it requires a different attitude and perspective to keep you from falling back into the undesired behavior. This can be hard, especially if you are just starting out. Many people fail when making a resolution to change a behavior due to triggers such as environment or the company they keep.

For example, if you choose to quit smoking but your co-worker whom you normally go outside to smoke with does not, it can be a challenge to still go out with them while they smoke. When you no longer go with them, it can have a negative effect on your relationship and if you do go out with them, you’re more likely to fall back into the behavior you’re trying to avoid.

Discipline is a key factor in discipleship, which is why I’ve always found it interesting that you can’t spell discipline without disciple. I feel there is a message in it somehow such as when you discipline yourself, you are a disciple in training. It makes sense because discipline is a type of sacrifice and when you strive to live your life as a disciple, you do have to make sacrifices.

You can read examples of some of the sacrifices a disciple would make (have made) in the Bible, beginning in the Old Testament. It is full of examples of people who sacrificed for God’s glory such as Abraham, Moses, Job, Naomi, and so many more. In the Old Testament, sacrifices were made on a regular basis as a part of the worship experience. When Jesus came on the scene, He called on the first disciples who left behind their families and possessions to travel with Jesus. Then of course the ultimate sacrifice, Jesus gave His own life for the forgiveness of sins, which is remembered each time Mass is celebrated around the world.

Today, sacrifices might include choosing to go to a Church service or function instead of staying home and watching a movie or a live sporting event. It might mean you skip the drive thru coffee in the morning and donate that money to support a nonprofit organization. Perhaps the sacrifice is refraining from gossip or saying negative things about other people. Discipline to become a disciple can look different for each person, but it still requires a sacrifice, making the effort to change your behavior.

The practice of discipline is a primary focus during the season of Lent, when in the Catholic church people refrain from eating meat on Fridays and typically give up or take on something. However, discipline is also lived out when you don’t eat for an hour before going to Mass, so you are emptied before receiving communion (Jesus). I like this thought of shedding something or removing something to make room for Jesus, in the same way you decrease your ego to increase God’s plan for you.

So, when the scripture says that Jesus disciplines those He loves, it gives me insight as to why following Jesus can be difficult at times. It helps explain why Jesus says the gate to heaven is narrow because it requires discipline and being able to do hard things. Even Saint Paul contributes to the argument that being a disciple is difficult. He says you must deny the things your body desires and do the things that the Spirit desires; this is not an easy thing to do.

One way to accomplish this feat, or at least begin to make strides towards the goal of getting through the narrow gate, is to practice the “see no evil, hear no evil, and speak no evil” philosophy. In other words, shedding the thoughts and behaviors that cause you to sin. When you practice filtering your thoughts and behaviors through this philosophy, it can help you identify things you need to do to change or refrain from doing. It is definitely no easy feat, but there is (at least for me) comfort in knowing you are not alone on the journey.

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Sunday, August 21st Readings

21st Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord,

YOU call out to me, and I come near.

YOU give me a heart of flesh to love.

YOU give me hands to reach out to help.

YOU give me the will to choose to follow.

May I never lose sight of ALL YOU give,

and always be grateful YOU are there

to give me what I need. AMEN!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 66:18-21

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

Hebrews 12:5-7, 11-13

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

Luke 13:22-30

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

General Questions for Journaling

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

Closing Prayer

Leader: Lord, strengthen my relationship

ALL: in the prayers I pray.

Leader: Lord, strengthen my understanding

ALL: through the scriptures.

Leader: Lord, strengthen my focus

ALL: as I follow the path.

Leader: Lord, strengthen my witness

ALL: as I speak truth.

Leader: Lord, strengthen my commitment

ALL: in acts of justice and mercy.

Leader: Lord, strengthen me…

ALL: make me your disciple!

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

Firm Steps

I had a bilateral hemilaminectomy in 2018. No need to look it up, it is a type of back surgery. Over the years, I experienced minor back pain, and would ice it, stretch, or refrain from the activity that caused the pain. In 2002, my back seized while I was changing over the laundry, and it took my husband, dad, and grandpa to pick me up off the ground so they could get me to the emergency room. That had been the worst pain I’d experienced in my life, childbirth withstanding, before July 30, 2018.

I had begun a new exercise routine which included some activities I’d not done before. I expected to have some sore muscles here and there since I was working out in a different way. I was feeling really good about myself and what I was accomplishing in class, so when I felt a little discomfort in my back, I just figured I needed to do what I had always done and take it easy.

I did my usual ice and stretch but I wanted to get back to the gym, afraid if I took too much time off, I’d have a hard time getting back into it. Prior to this, I’d stuck with low impact cardio and yoga classes; modifying moves when needed, but the day I went back, I attended a HIIT class. There were several stations around the room where you and a partner would take turns completing the specific exercise. It was during this class when I finally pushed the limit.

I left class that day in major pain but figured I just went back too soon. The regular remedies barely made a dent on the pain and things like sleeping or getting dressed became very difficult. I was still keeping my regular schedule, but it was taking me longer to get ready and the pain was slowing me down from completing some of the things that needed to be done. I figured the doctor would prescribe me pain killers and muscle relaxers, which I couldn’t take if I was going to be driving or teaching and I had a contract to fulfill. It was truly a point of surrender to call and make the appointment, literally lying on the ground, pulling myself to the bathroom to use the bathtub as leverage to help me get to my feet.

At the visit, my doctor ordered an MRI and unfortunately due to insurance hang ups, it took over a month for it to get scheduled. I spent that month in such immense pain, unable to find any comfort. Even when I finally had the MRI, I cried because the pain was so bad while holding still as the images were scanned. The entire process lasted 6 months, from injury on July 30^th to surgery on October 29^th and then 90 days of recovery.

The first three months I spent a lot of time crying, feeling like a burden on my family, and that I was letting down the students in my class and the other people who counted on me at my job. I had no answers, only questions and fear. The MRI showed severe damage to my L4 and L5, to the point where I was experiencing atrophy and loss of sensation in my foot, which made walking a challenge at times.

The last three months started the day of surgery. I knew the moment I woke up in the recovery room that the surgery had been a success because the only pain I felt at that point was the pain from the incision; the pain in my back was gone. As soon as I was discharged from the hospital I was supposed to get up and walk every day, beginning with a quarter of a mile and increasing by another quarter each week.

At the beginning, my steps were slow and measured, and always with the help of others until I was able to feel firm on my feet. Over time, I became more confident but still cautious. I thankfully had access to a treadmill, so I was able to continue my recovery on days when there was rain, ice, or snow in the forecast. Still today, I am mindful of where I step when I walk, how I bend down to clean out the dishwasher or do my laundry, and how I get out of bed in the morning.

The journey of going from severe pain and the possibility of never being able to participate in activities that I love such as hiking or biking, to recovery and now living in a climate that provides me ample opportunities to do those things regularly is a redemption story. Through the pain, I had to let go and even in the recovery I had to surrender myself so others could take care of me, even to the point of needing someone else to wash my hair for me or to shave my legs.

I say it is redemptive because I came out of a dark situation to walk in the light. I am changed. Changed by the pain, the unknown future, the kindness of others, and most of all the desire to not take anything for granted. I was reminded that life is short, and it is meant to be lived; lived to the fullest with gratitude and humility. Always allowing God to guide my steps and to stand firm in faith.

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weeklyscripturejournal

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

Daily Prayer

Sunday, October 2nd Readings

Sunday, September 25th Readings

Sunday, September 18th Readings

Sunday, September 11th Readings

Sunday, September 4th Readings

Bountiful Rain

Sunday, August 28th Readings

He Disciplines

Sunday, August 21st Readings

Firm Steps