Faith Building

Sunday, February 5th Readings

5th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Father,

Jesus said,

Blessed are those who mourn,

for they shall be consoled.

May I find comfort during the difficult seasons,

times of loss and darkness let me find You.

Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness,

for they shall have their fill.

I trust in You that justice and mercy will find it’s path,

even if I do not see it happening.

Jesus, said, blessed are you!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 58:7-10

  • How can you re-word the phrase, “Then your light shall break forth like the dawn, and your wound shall be quickly healed” to have meaning in your spiritual life today?
  • Isaiah reveals in the scripture that when your works for others, God is there. In what other scripture passage do you hear this message?  What is the significance of this?

1Corinthians 2:1-5

  • St. Paul is saying there is nothing getting in the way of the word he is preaching. What kind of things can get in the way in some of your conversations with others? What do you sometimes hide behind?
  • Is there a situation in your life right now where you need be more like St Paul in this scripture and be honest?    

Matthew 5:13-16

  • Personify salt, light and a city on a mountain. What qualities would each of these have?  What qualities do you emulate? Are there qualities you can cultivate into your life?
  • You can have not enough salt or too much salt, or not enough light or too much light. How does this concept apply to your spiritual life?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Good can come from suffering; how can something you have suffered through be a benefit to another person?
  • Share an example of how God is behind you doing good things for others.
  • From the time Jesus was born, he was “light”. The Shepherds and Magi found him by following the star. Simeon and Anna recognized the “light”. Even the fishermen on the shore were drawn to the “light” so that they left everything behind to follow it. How do you let the “light” of Jesus shine in your life?
  • Do you like to share? What is something you like to share?
  • Are there things in your life that you don’t like to share? Why?
  • The world has an “it’s all about ME” attitude but Jesus calls you to fill the needs of your neighbors. Consider your actions in the past week, when did you have an “it’s all about ME” attitude? What could you have done differently to have an attitude of Christ?
  • Do you hide a bad habit, negative behavior or addiction from others? You cannot hide your true-self from God. Create a strategy to bring what you hide from others to light so God’s grace, mercy and forgiveness can help you overcome.
  • Imagine God read all of your emails and text messages this past week, viewed all of the websites you viewed, and listened to the top 25 songs on your playlist. Would they reflect God’s love?
  • When was the last time you put your own agenda aside in order to help another person?  What was the outcome? Where there any benefits or consequences to your action?
  • When do you call out to God for help? What type of things do you want/need God’s help with?
  • Reflect on a struggle you have right now. Consider the struggle from another person’s point of view. How might God see the same struggle? How can your faith give you a different perspective?
  • When you look through human understanding, it doesn’t make sense that death on a cross gives eternal life. Faith says differently. Is there anything you are anxious about or causes you worry that needs the power of God?
  • What gives your life flavor?
  • How do you think God wards off gloom in your life?  Give examples.
  • What does it look like to rely fully on God for your happiness?
  • Have you ever claimed to know more than you really do?  When?  What was the circumstance?  How did the situation turn out for you?
  • How can you shine the spotlight on the good works of another?
  • Make a list of all of the things which produce light. What produces darkness?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Through compassion I give and receive;

ALL:  Your mercy endures forever!

Leader:  Through understanding, watching and waiting;

ALL:  Your patience endures forever! 

Leader:  Through good works, for myself and others;

ALL:  Your justice endures forever!

Leader:  Through forgiveness, I offer and accept; 

ALL:  Your grace endures forever!

Leader:  Through eternal life given through death;

ALL:  Your love endures forever!

Challenge for the Week: 

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, January 29th Readings

4th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Father

What do I ask for when I pray?

What is it I seek?

Do I seek Your will or

          do I expect You to do what I ask?

Do I trust You in word alone

          or do my actions reflect my trust too?

Bring me to my knees,

          humble me, 

                   so I might understand how to pray.

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Zephaniah 2:3; 3:12-13

  • Are there laws of God which you disagree? If so, what are they?
  • How does God keep you from telling lies or doing wrong? Explain.

1 Corinthians 1:26-31

  • God makes you worthy of your call; what excuses do you still use to not live out your call?
  • How can being weak, foolish and lowly give glory to God? 

Matthew 5:1-12a

  • Which one of the Beatitudes stands out to you as one you have or can achieve?
  • Which one of the Beatitudes do you think sounds impossible to achieve?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Where is happiness found? Do you feel like it hides from you at times?
  • When you read scripture, do you allow a piece of it to remain with you? 
  • God speaks to you daily, are you listening? What is God saying to you today?
  • Would you say you are living with purpose? Where would you fall on a scale from 1-10?  Explain.
  • When you leave a conversation, a meeting or the dinner table, what do you leave behind? Is it a spirit of love, friendship or peace? Or is it frustration, anger or discontent?
  • Do you allow the power of God to work in you and through you? Give examples.
  • Are there people in your home or at your workplace who need to hear that God loves them? What can you do?
  • Is there a difference between being faithful and living your faith?
  • When was the last time you sacrificed something for the good of another person in your family?
  • Have you ever sacrificed something for the good of someone you’ve never met? When? How? Why?
  • Share a time when you were singled out or rejected because of your belief in God.
  • Are there people whom you are afraid to share your faith with? Why or why not?

Closing Prayer – Inspired by Psalm 146

Leader:  God raises me up…

ALL:  I am blessed!

Leader:  God gives me comfort…

ALL:  I am blessed!

Leader:  God protects me from harm…

ALL:  I am blessed!

Leader:  God sustains me; my one constant…

ALL:  I am blessed!

Leader:  God is forever faithful…

ALL:  I am blessed!

Challenge for the Week:  Take the time to read the scriptures again this week.  Read them out loud so the words go out from your mouth and back in through your ears.  Allow time after you’ve read them to sit and meditate on what you read.  As you sit in silence, let the words swim in your mind, picturing each word.  Spend as much time as necessary until ONE word stands out, ONE word that does not leave you but buries itself into your heart, mind and soul.  What is that word?  Let this word be your guide this week as though it is a call to action.  How many times does it appear in the Bible and in what context?  Are there prayers written which highlight this word, if not, write one.  Is there a way to live out this word?  Make a plan to do so, perhaps inspiring others to join you.  Let God speak to you!

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, January 22nd Readings

3rd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

God, my creator, You give me the breath of life.

Jesus, my mentor, You call me to follow you.

Spirit, my companion, You are with me always.

You show me the path and teach me to be a disciple.

May I always walk in Your light and share Your love.

AMEN!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 8:23-9:3

• Where do you see darkness in the world today? Do you think God can dispel this darkness? Are there things YOU can do to bring light to these dark places?

• Anguish and gloom have hovered over the people in the Old Testament. Think about a time when you could relate to feeling this way. What brought you out of this dark time?

1Corinthians 1:10-13,17

• What causes people to quarrel? What is the disagreement in this reading? What makes people have to learn for themselves and not learn from others mistakes?

• Can positive things come from disagreements? Where have you seen good or growth come from conflict?

Matthew 4:12-23

• Two sets of brothers dropped everything and immediately followed Jesus. What do you think they saw in Jesus that would make them do that? Do you think they had regrets?

• Could you drop everything in your life and leave? What would you have a hard time leaving behind?

General Questions for Journaling

• Identify any darkness which occupies your soul. What creates the darkness? How can you work to bring light into the darkness?

• Describe the feeling you have when you see a light in the distance though the darkness. Compare it to your spirituality.

• Who are people in the world today who are “beacons of light”? The world celebrates public figures who make contributions to society such as Mother Teresa, Nelson Mandela or Martin Luther King JR. Name some of the people whom you look to for inspiration? Whom you revere or respect? What qualities do they possess which you want to emulate?

• If you saw Jesus “strolling” along the Sea of Galilee, would you approach Him? Sit and meditate. Let the scene play out in your mind. Allow Jesus to talk with you.

• What do you desire? What do you long for? How do you work to satisfy this desire or longing?

• When you daydream, what do you dream about? Do you give these daydreams any attention in your “everyday life”? Do you share these dreams with God or others?

• Could you like John the Baptist stand up for what is right even if it meant you would have to suffer? What would be worth the sacrifice?

Closing Prayer – Psalm 27:1, 4, 13-14

ALL: The Lord is my light and my salvation whom should I fear?

The Lord is my life’s refuge; of whom should I be afraid?

One thing I ask of the Lord; this I seek;

to dwell in the house of the Lord all the days of my life,

That I may gaze on the loveliness of the Lord

and contemplate his temple.

I believe that I shall see the bounty of the Lord

in the land of the living, wait for the Lord with courage;

be stouthearted, and wait for the Lord.

Challenge for the Week: Go deeper into your meditation this week and consider your path of discipleship. Jesus said, “Come and follow me”, “Leave behind your nets”, “ I will make you fishers of men”, “Your lives will never be the same”. He still calls you in this way…by name. Have you left behind your nets? What are some of the things you still hang onto? What does it mean to be “fishers of men”? Are you working to bring others to Christ? Do you seek out those in need and share God’s love and mercy with them? How has following God changed your life?

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, January 15th Readings

2nd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord, Lamb of God!

May Your light shine

          from the heavens!

May Your Spirit dwell

          throughout the land!

Let all those who gather

          in your name

                   feel Your presence!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 49:3, 5-6

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

1 Corinthians 1:1-3

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

John 1:29-34

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

General Questions for Journaling

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

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Through the waters of Baptism…

ALL:  I am CLEANED!

Leader:  Through the waters of Baptism…

ALL:  I am made PURE!

Leader:  Through the waters of Baptism…

ALL:  I am SATISFIED!

Leader:  Through the waters of Baptism…

ALL:  I become WHOLE!

Leader:  Through the waters of Baptism…

ALL:  I am BELOVED!

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

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, January 8th Readings

Epiphany of Our Lord

Opening Prayer

Lord

You shine like a star for all to see

You bring light to the dark places

You pour out Your goodness

You fill me until I overflow

Help me to radiate in this world, like YOU!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 60:1-6

  • The Magi were drawn to the baby Jesus because of the “great light”. What draws people to a relationship with Jesus today? What draws you into a relationship with Jesus?
  • God calls you into the light. Are there areas of your life which you close off to God or to others because they are dark? Identify the darkness in your life and resolve to let God begin to shine light onto it. Make a resolution to seek help from people who can help shed light onto a dark situation.

Ephesians 3:2-3, 5-6

  • What brings light into your life? Take a piece of paper and write down the things that bring light to your life and draw a star around each one. Place this paper in a significant place in your house, on the refrigerator, on your bathroom mirror, in your prayer space, wherever you will see it and be reminded and encouraged.
  • How would you identify yourself as a copartner with God? What does Saint Paul mean here?
  • Saint Paul says all people are heirs to the kingdom of God. Do your actions express this truth? Who in your life needs to be shown God’s unconditional love? What steps can you take to make them feel like a child of God?

Matthew 2:1-12

  • The Magi travelled a great distance to find Jesus. How far have you travelled to find Jesus? What makes the journey worth it?
  • How will you pay homage to Jesus this year? Do any of your resolutions help you deepen your relationship with him? What gifts do you bring to Jesus?
  • 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?
  • What do your dreams warn you against? Do you listen?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Can you identify where God is working in your life? How do you help or hinder God’s work in your life?
  • What does a steward do? How are you a steward of God’s grace?
  • How is it that you came to know Jesus? 
  • How far would you travel to see God?
  • What are you willing to sacrifice/give up in order to find God?
  • How do you relate to Jesus as a baby? What are you to learn or take away from the circumstances of Jesus’ birth? 
  • Is there someone or something that threatens you and your growth in the Spirit? Is there an obstacle in your life, you must overcome? Name the Herod in your life, then ask God to guide you to safety.
  • Things don’t always work out the way you expect. The story of Jesus’ birth says you just have to go with the flow. Are there prayers in your life which have been answered, just not in the way you expected? 
  • 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?

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:  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!

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, January 1st Readings

Mary Mother of God

Opening Prayer

God of heaven and earth

How must Mary have felt,

          going through all of these trials?

What did she think,

          about journeying away from home?

Was she sad

          because her mother wasn’t with her?

Did she struggle

          with believing what the Angel said?

How did others treat her

          when they saw she was pregnant?

Help me to connect with Mary

          so I might learn how to let my faith

          overcome obstacles!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Numbers 6:22-27

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

Galatians 4:4-7

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

Luke 2:16-21

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

General Questions for Journaling

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

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, when I feel unworthy…

ALL:  bless me with the Spirit of Grace!

Leader:  Lord, when I am in despair…

ALL:  bless me with the Spirit of Hope!

Leader:  Lord, when I feel neglected…

ALL:  bless me with the Spirit of Love!

Leader:  Lord, when I feel incomplete…

ALL:  bless me with the Spirit of Wholeness!

Leader:  Lord, when I are full of worry…

ALL:  Bless me with the Spirit of Peace!

Challenge for the Week:  Take time to reflect on the past year.  There have been good things and bad things happen; how have these things affected you?  What do you have to look forward to in the New Year?  Are there things which you are dreading to face?  What have you learned this year that can help you overcome any obstacles in the coming year?  Are you making resolutions half-heartedly for the sake of “tradition” or are you spending time to make a change for good?  Spend time in reflection on the scripture readings of the birth of Jesus, focusing on each of the people in the story from the Innkeeper to Joseph to the Angels to Mary to the Shepherds, each person has a message for you…what is it and how can it help you make resolutions for 2023?

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, December 25th Readings

Nativity of the Lord – Christmas

Opening Prayer

Heavenly Father,

Let this Christmas season

be eclipsed by Your Son, Jesus.

May I find peace in the things

that don’t go the way I want them to.

May I give thanks for what I have

without comparing it to others.

Let the wonder of His love

be shown in my words and actions.

Not only towards others

          but towards myself as well.

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 62:11-12

  • What reward does Jesus bring to you this season?
  • How do you hold remembrance for loved ones, especially during Christmas?

Titus 3:4-7

  • The birth of Jesus can be a metaphor for many things; what will it be in your life this year?
  • Jesus’ birth is an opportunity for you be renewed. How might you be renewed?
  • What has been poured out into your life this past year? Write a prayer about it.

Luke 2:15-20

  • Where or from whom did you first hear about Jesus? Do you remember what you thought or how you felt? Explain.
  • What message do you share about Jesus’ coming? Give a specific example.

General Questions for Journaling

  • Identify things in your home that proclaim your faith. Are they there only during Christmas or all year around?
  • What gift do you want Jesus to bring you this Christmas?
  • Make a promise to yourself (tie a ribbon on your pinky finger as a reminder) that when you encounter a difficult person/conversation/situation where you’d normally engage in a negative way, to instead show mercy, kindness, or walk away.
  • Choose one of the gifts of the Holy Spirit to focus on. Either choose one for the entire year or pick one per month to focus on increasing in your life.
  • Where can you be light for someone this season?
  • Is there a situation in your life that you’ve been hiding; what does shining a light on it do? Consider if it is time to do so.
  • What is your favorite childhood memory about Christmas?
  • What tradition/traditions have you carried from your childhood that you still participate in today?
  • Do you have a nativity scene? What does it look like? Where did you get it?  ow is it displayed? Describe what it means to you.
  • When you reflect on the nativity scene, where do you picture yourself?
  • If you were there when Jesus was born, what would you say to Mary and Joseph?
  • How do you feel about the story of Jesus’ birth?
  • How is Jesus’ birth similar and different from any birth? Explain.
  • What song or songs of the season do you need to listen to so you feel the Christmas spirit?

Closing Prayer – Psalm 97

Leader:  A light will shine on this day

ALL:  the Lord is born.

Leader:  The Lord is king

ALL:  let all the earth rejoice.

Leader:  The heavens proclaim

ALL: the glory of this baby king.

Leader:  Light dawns and justice reigns

ALL:  there is peace and gladness.

Leader:  Give thanks to His holy name

ALL:  give thanks and praise.

Leader:  A light will shine on this day

ALL:  the savior is born!

Challenge for the Week:  Christmas is filled with family traditions and celebrations.  One of those traditions may include going to Church, but is that the only way you celebrate Jesus’ birthday?  Think about the family traditions 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!

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, December 18th Readings

4th Sunday of Advent

Opening Prayer

Precious Lord

I await Your coming!

I prepare for Your arrival!

Quietly

Peacefully

May I be ready!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 7:10-14

  • Do you believe God’s plan included Jesus coming to earth from the beginning? Why or why not? What does this tell us about God if it was or was not?
  • God gave a sign to Ahaz. Do you think God still sends signs to people on earth?
  • Where do you see signs of God? (in the World? Community? Church? Family? Yourself?)

Romans 1:1-7

  • What makes Jesus’ life story so different than other great men in history? Who is responsible for sharing His story?
  • How does the “Spirit of holiness” emerge from your life?
  • 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?
  • Emmanuel means “God with us”. Jesus was born unto us to be with us always. How is this lived out in the Gospels? How is this lived out today?

General Questions for Journaling

  • How do you share your faithfulness to God to your children and/or grandchildren, or other children in your life?
  • If it was your job to give the sermon or homily on Christmas, what would you say?
  • What characteristics does Joseph possess that you value in a man? Husband? Father?
  • How is sleeping on a decision an act of prayer?
  • Can you recall a dream you had where God spoke to you?
  • Are there any big decisions you need to discern at this time? How are you creating space for you to work out the problem and allow God into the decision making?
  • Do you feel weary? What causes you to feel weary?
  • Do you think God ever gets tired? Why or why not?
  • Have you ever ignored a sign from God? Share.
  • Is there someone in your life who 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 me not forget

ALL:  the serenity of a new day.

Leader:  Lord, let me not forget

ALL:  the smell of a newborn child.

Leader:  Lord, let me not forget

ALL: there is joy in waiting.

Leader:  Lord, let me not forget

ALL:  there is peace in knowing.

Leader:  Lord, let me not forget

ALL:  the promises made and kept.

Leader:  Lord, let me not forget

ALL:  I am yours!

Challenge for the Week:  Signs are made to welcome people home, to say happy birthday, to attach to a car announcing, “Just Married”, to share good news.  You might also see signs at sporting events with catchy phrases, hoping to catch the eye of the camera man so your message can be seen.  While some signs share a positive message, there are some that reflect negative messages such as signs displayed during a protest or boycott.  Whatever the message on the sign, the 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, imagine you are holding a sign right now.  What does your sign say?  What do 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 of how you want to catch Jesus’ attention J

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, December 11th Readings

3rd Sunday of Advent

Opening Prayer

Lord

Teach me to be patient,

so I might better appreciate

          all you give to me!

Help me to slow down,

          so I might see the goodness

                   all around!

Use this season of Advent,

          to teach me to wait and

                   be still so YOU can come!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 35:1-6a, 10

  • What signs does God give to support His promise of freedom from slavery for the Israelites? What signs does God give to support His promise to you for eternal live?
  • What signs are there that God is present in the world today? What signs are there that God is working in your life?
  • Describe the “splendor of God”.
  • How is God bringing abundance into your life right now?

James 5:7-10

  • Compare how a farmer prepares and waits for his harvest to how God prepares and waits on His people.
  • List qualities of impatience. What good do these qualities bring to a situation? Where can patience be found when you begin to run out?
  • What do you need from God right now? Is there something special you are waiting on?

Matthew 11:2-11

  • What are your deepest desires? What do you go to God to “heal” for you?
  • How are you deaf, blind, or lame in your faith? What can God do for you to make you whole?
  • How do you proclaim God’s goodness? Share details of the last time you did.

General Questions for Journaling

  • On a scale from 1-10 how would you rate your level of patience? Would you say you are a patient person?
  • Is there a situation where you would not be very patient? Is there a situation where you are okay waiting for something?
  • Do you think we ever have enough patience?  
  • Why is it hard to have patience when we are going through a hardship?
  • Has the season of Christmas overtaken your life? What can you do to slow down and remember the reason for the season?
  • What does “waiting” on the Messiah teach you about the virtue of patience? What habits can you change in order to be more patient throughout the year?
  • Mary is a model of patience. Write a prayer with Mary in mind and ask her for help to bring patience to your life.
  • 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?
  • Compare yourself to John the Baptist. What have you done in the past year that could be described as being something “John the Baptist would do?” What can you do this coming year to be more like John the Baptist?
  • Have you ever done something “good” for someone, only to be reprimanded for doing “wrong”? What was the situation, how was the situation resolved? 
  • Are good intentions always viewed as good? Why or why not?
  • God needs us to help make the world a better place…What are you being called to do in the world, in your community, at your church, at your work, in your family?
  • 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.  You expect to receive what you what the moment you want it.  You get irritated when you have to wait for anything.  Not so long ago, it took time to bake bread and churn the butter to put on it.  This week, challenge yourself to embrace the art of waiting.  There is a saying, “good things come to those who wait” but many grow impatient and decide there is no time to wait! 

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, December 4th Readings

2nd Sunday of Advent

Opening Prayer

Come Holy Spirit… 

          Reshape!

          Embrace!

Set the world on fire with YOUR love!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 11:1-10

  • What are the qualities of God? What do you know and understand of God?
  • What does it mean to “fill the earth with knowledge of the Lord”?
  • 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 advice does Saint Paul give here? Do his words ring true for us today? How?
  • Is it easy or difficult to “think in harmony” with another person? What good comes from just agreeing with them? What harm? What does God call you to do in these situations?
  • 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

  • How would you respond to John’s call? Knowing what you know about John’s character, what do you think is call was like? Would you be persuaded, or would you turn away?
  • 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?
  • Are you “on fire” for God? What do your words and actions say?

General Questions for Journaling

  • What opens you to the mystery of God?
  • What do you long for? What do you need this holiday? Where can you find it?
  • Jesus came from a long line of faithful servants. What does your lineage say about faith? What is your faith DNA?
  • The season change indicates it’s time to cut back plants, flowers and trees and bring them in to protect them from the winter frost. How is this true of your faith and relationships?
  • What changes do you need to make in order to clear out “dead wood” in your life? In your beliefs? In your relationships?
  • In retrospect, what changes in your life are you most proud of making? What was the change and what makes you proud of this change?
  • 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? Explain.
  • 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 so you can 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 I welcome others…

ALL:  bring the Spirit of God!

Leader:  While I sing your praise…

ALL:  bring the Spirit of God!

Leader:  Set my heart on fire…

ALL:  Spirit of God!

Challenge for the Week:  Catholic’s celebrate the coming of Jesus at Christmas in the season called Advent.  They 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, it is easy to take for granted this time of Advent when outside of the church.  The world barely takes notice of how the Church on a greater scale is stepping out and pointing the way to Jesus, instead of what is happening in the world during the “busy holiday season”.  Inside the Catholic church, the attributes of Advent; peace, hope, joy, and anticipation, are on display and there to remind believers about the true reason for the 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!

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!