Faith Building

Sunday, November 27th Readings)

1st Sunday of Advent

Opening Prayer

Be still.

Wait.

Breathe.

Wait.

Relax.

Wait.

Come Lord Jesus, Come!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 2:1-5

  • What does “world peace” look like to you? How would you change things in order to have “world peace”.
  • What does the phrase, “beat your swords into plowshares” mean to you? What does this tell you to do? 

Romans 13:11-14

  • Are there places of darkness in your life? Identify them and make an action plan on how you will shed God’s light into the situation, problem or feeling.
  • God is the God of yesterday, today, and tomorrow. You can look back on his arrival, and look forward to his coming again, where do you find God in your present?

Matthew 24:37-44

  • How can you make God more welcome in your daily life?
  • How does God come to you each day? Identify as many as you can and praise God for blessing you.

General Questions for Journaling

  • If you used a mountain as a metaphor for your faith, where on the mountain might you be on your journey to Christ? Draw a picture and identify all of the moments on your faith journey where you have encountered God.  
  • How high do you think the highest mountain is? What would it take to get to the top?
  • Are there special skills you have which would help you survive a long journey? Are there any skills you wish you had?
  • How does God instruct you? What makes you sure God is leading you down the right path?
  • What does peace look like? What does peace feel like?
  • Children are sometimes rewarded for waiting, reflect on how that translates into your waiting as an adult. 
  • How do you view waiting? Is it positive or negative?
  • What are some of the things in life and in this world that are worth waiting for?
  • What do all churches have in common? Are these the things that make them the house(s) of the Lord? Or is there something else?
  • Are there injustices that you have “fallen asleep” to? Is calling you to “wake up” and do something?
  • Have you ever felt like you were sleep walking through life? Just going through the motions of your everyday activities? What did you do or can you do to change?
  • Have you ever felt as though God woke you up to tell you something? What did He say? How did you listen?
  • An angel of the Lord spoke to many people in the Bible in a dream, has God ever spoken to you in a dream? What did He say? How did you listen?
  • Who in your life are you anxious to see? Whom do you look forward to spending time with? What about those people make time with them highly anticipated?
  • How will you prepare your home for Jesus’ coming this Advent/Christmas season?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  You call Lord

ALL:  and I give thanks!

Leader:  You call Lord

ALL:  and I welcome the stranger!

Leader:  You call Lord

ALL: and I share what I have!

Leader:  You call Lord

ALL:  and I offer prayers!

Leader:  You call Lord

ALL:  and I surrender all!

Challenge for the Week:  The message in the scripture is to find unity, a common thread.  The differences between people are seen externally and internally.  You can even keep a running scorecard in your head with tally marks noting physical differences as well as differences in lifestyle, beliefs, etc.  The differences can become so abundant you are unable to see beyond them.  But this is not the kind of division Jesus was referring to when He said He came to cause division, He is talking about dividing the sheep from the goats.  Jesus shows in the Gospel how despite differences of beliefs or lifestyles, hair color or whatever, you are called into union with HIM and in turn, with others.  It is time to step out from behind the wall you have built that keeps you from entering into full communion with Jesus.  Stand up for what your faith calls you to do and love others as Jesus loves.  It is not easy to do.  This week, pick a day to focus on finding the common thread you have with whomever you encounter.  It might sound silly, but when you practice seeing the similarities, you might be able to train your brain to stop identifying the differences.

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, November 20th Readings

Solemnity of Christ the King

Opening Prayer

Lord, Jesus

You are crowned the most high King

          yet you humbled yourself for me.

Let me too humble myself

          to do the work you call me to do.

Come dwell in me, so your love and mercy

          shines through like a crown!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

2Samuel 5:1-3

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

Colossians 1:12-20

  • How do you know something has the fullness of Christ in it?
  • Do you fully love anything or anyone? How do you express your love to the fullest?
  • Reflect on the places that you find goodness. Are those places sacred places? If they are, what do they say about you? About God?

Luke 23:35-43

  • Even in His pain, Jesus shows mercy to another. What can you learn from His example?
  • How did Jesus respond to the good thief? How does it compare to the way He responds to you when you struggle?
  • Do you have anyone in your life who is reaching out to you? How do you respond? What does this scripture inspire you to do?

General Questions for Journaling

  • How does it feel to be wanted?
  • When did you last reach out to someone you hadn’t spoken to for a while, just because? Do you always need a reason?
  • How have you recently reached out to someone? Did you do it out of obligation? Did you do it out of love? What is the difference?
  • What was the last compliment you received?  
  • What was the last real compliment you gave?
  • Where do you see heaven here on earth?
  • It is easy to see God in the beauty of the earth but what about in destruction, war or the slums of poverty?
  • Is there goodness in your life right now? What role does God play in that goodness?
  • Is there turmoil in your life right now? What role does God play in that turmoil?
  • People thought Jesus came to be a political power, what kind of power did Jesus really come to give?
  • What kind of childhood do you suppose Jesus had? How would it have been different if people knew he was the “King of glory”?
  • How did Christ show He was King?
  • Do you see evidence of His kingdom on earth?
  • When you see a happy person, what is your instinct? 
  • When you see a sad person, what is your instinct?
  • Jesus died to save your sin, are there sins you still need to forgive? Your own sins? The sins of others? Are there those whom you need to seek forgiveness?
  • Jesus died for all, are there people in your life who are difficult to see through the eyes of God? What can you do to see them as a child of God?
  • Share a time when you were like the soldiers and mocked the powerless. Is there something you can do to heal the hurt caused by your words or actions?
  • Share a time when you were mocked by others but were powerless in the situation. Have you forgiven those who hurt you? How have you been able to heal?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  You call Lord

ALL:  and I give thanks!

Leader:  You call Lord

ALL:  and I welcome the stranger!

Leader:  You call Lord

ALL: and I share what I have!

Leader:  You call Lord

ALL:  and I offer prayers!

Leader:  You call Lord

ALL:  and I surrender all!

Challenge for the Week:  The message in the scripture is to find unity, a common thread.  The differences between people are seen externally and internally.  You can even keep a running scorecard in your head with tally marks noting physical differences as well as differences in lifestyle, beliefs, etc.  The differences can become so abundant you are unable to see beyond them.  But this is not the kind of division Jesus was referring to when He said He came to cause division, He is talking about dividing the sheep from the goats.  Jesus shows in the Gospel how despite differences of beliefs or lifestyles, hair color or whatever, you are called into union with HIM and in turn, with others.  It is time to step out from behind the wall you have built that keeps you from entering into full communion with Jesus.  Stand up for what your faith calls you to do and love others as Jesus loves.  It is not easy to do.  This week, pick a day to focus on finding the common thread you have with whomever you encounter.  It might sound silly, but when you practice seeing the similarities, you might be able to train your brain to stop identifying the differences.

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, November 13th Readings

33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Precious Jesus

When I find myself

overwhelmed or stressed by

the events of the day;

Let me just say Your name

and be comforted,

JESUS!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Malachi 3:19-20a

  • How would you describe “fear of the Lord” to someone? What does “fear of the Lord” look like?
  • Share an example of a time when justice healed. What hurts do you see in the world right now that need healing? Is there something you can do to bring justice?

2Thessalonians 3:7-12

  • Saint Paul challenges the Thessalonians (and you) to be “models of faith” for others. Who can you look to for strength and encouragement as you strive to meet this challenge?
  • Saint Paul struggled day and night to bring about the kingdom of God. How do you compare? What do you do? Is there more you can do or do you give all you can?
  • What challenges did Saint Paul face? Are they similar or different than the challenges you face today?

Luke 21:5-19

  • Is being persecuted because of your faith a thing of the past or does it happen still?
  • Have you ever been persecuted because of your faith?
  • What gifts have you been given to help you through your trials?
  • What word or phrase from this scripture gives you hope during hard times?

General Questions for Journaling

  • What does the name Jesus say to you?
  • What do you feel when you hear the name Jesus?
  • How do you feel about the day of God’s coming?
  • Is God the only person whom you allow to have power over you? Who else holds power over you?
  • Define justice.
  • Share an example of when you saw healing at the hand of justice.
  • Name the things you worry about. Why do you worry about these things? What can you do to let go of the worry? Why is it difficult to do this?
  • Is there anything you fear?
  • How do you know God exists? What does God do to let you know He is real?
  • What most threatens the calm of your world?
  • Are you quick to point out “evil doers”?
  • Have you ever felt out of place for believing in God? When? Where? How did you deal with it?
  • What about your character does God love? Is there anything He doesn’t love? Why or why not?
  • How does God “renew the face of the earth” through suffering?
  • Have you ever felt like things in your life were going to fall apart? When? What happened? How did you overcome the feeling?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Let me seek YOU Lord

ALL:  while I do my work.

Leader:  Let me seek YOU Lord

ALL:  as I spend time with family

Leader:  Let me seek YOU Lord

ALL: when I am running errands

Leader:  Let me seek YOU Lord

ALL:  in the good AND the bad

Leader:  May I not seek long

ALL:  before I feel You near!

Challenge for the Week:  Everyone suffers at one time or another.  It might be suffering through waiting for test results or suffering from the loss of a loved one or perhaps even a physical ailment.  Some joke about the things you might suffer through such as a child’s first band concert or all of the political ads for weeks before the election.  No matter what it is you suffer from or through, one thing remains the same, you can turn to God for comfort.  You can cling to God with all of your strength when you are suffering through the physical or emotional pain of a situation, and God can bring relief.  Your relief is found in the support you receive, the kind words you hear and the comfort of knowing you are not alone in the suffering.  You are not alone because God shows up as the friend that sits with you as you wait for test results.  God shows up in the words of comfort someone shares with you when you lose someone close to you.  God uses you to bring comfort to others too.  You are the one who can help ease the suffering of another who suffers from physical or emotional pain with empathy and support.  You can even give comfort to others who suffer through the child’s concert and political ads by sharing the experience and letting them know they are not alone.  God is there, though you, and through others.  This week, choose to be intentional about bringing comfort to someone you know who is suffering.

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, November 6th Readings

32nd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Resurrected Lord,

You gave Your life

          so I might know love.

Let me show You appreciation

          through good works.

Let my gratitude be expressed

          through my prayers.

May I never cease to say

          THANK YOU…

for the gift of life You have given me

today and forever!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

2 Maccabees 7: 1-2, 9-14

  • What in this scripture reminds you there is more to life than this world?
  • Who are the people in your life who could be called “resurrection” people? Who are the people who bring life to you, brighten your day and fill you with joy?
  • What are some of the earthly burdens you are willing to suffer because of the hope you have in the resurrection?

2 Thessalonians 2:6-3:5

  • What is the purpose of Saint Paul’s prayer for speed?
  • At what speed do you suppose the ministry you are called to do here on earth is moving?
  • What is Saint Paul’s prayer for you? How are you actively pursuing his request/desire for you in your life?

Luke 20:27-38

  • What in this life means the most to you right now? What do you think you can take with you into the next life?
  • How does this Gospel make you feel about your own death?
  • When faced with adversaries trying to trap Him in the law, Jesus always takes the tangled web and lays it straight, what is the bottom line in this scripture?
  • In the Gospel, Jesus focuses on life while the Sadducees focus on death. What does Jesus promise about life after death?

General Questions for Journaling

  • What would you be willing to put on the line to defend?
  • Do you act differently because you have hope in the resurrection? You believe there is more than life here on earth?
  • What do you believe heaven will be like? What or who do you hope to see? Do you look forward to going to heaven?
  • What is something God calls you to “die to” in order to have live with him?
  • What gives you hope when you feel all is lost? In what do you find comfort during difficult situations?
  • Would you say your words and actions show you are confident in the promises of Christ?  Why or why not?
  • Write a list of 10 words which describe how you feel about death, then write a list of 10 words which describe how you feel about the resurrection.
  • What reading(s) or song(s) bring you comfort when you think of losing a loved one?
  • Is it possible to treat everyone equally? Loved ones vs Strangers? Each of your children? Your own siblings? Explain
  • God loves everyone the same, so why is everyone so quick to judge another?
  • Who gives you encouragement? Whom do you encourage?
  • Can you get the wrong kind of encouragement? Give examples.
  • What makes you strong in the faith? How can you share this with others to strengthen their faith?
  • Who was the last saint you read about in detail? Who is the next saint you will get to know?
  • What image do you have of the Communion of Saints? How often to you carry the image with you? Why is it good to remember? 
  • How do you remember those who have died? What traditions do you have in your faith? In your family?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, I pray I can

ALL:  come to understand

Leader:  that Your love is enough

ALL:  to hold me up

Leader:  when I feel abandoned.

ALL: And that Your grace is enough

Leader:  to bring comfort

ALL:  when I don’t feel worthy.

Leader:  And help me remember

ALL:  that your death and resurrection

Leader:  is the promise

ALL:  of everlasting life!

Challenge for the Week:  You probably have someone in your life (or have had) who can be difficult to be around or is hard to talk to for some reason or another.  It could be because of a quirk they have that drives you crazy or perhaps you have a difference of opinion about a specific topic and you just can’t seem to avoid bringing up your differences.  However, Jesus is always urging His followers to break down the walls of difference and injustice and love your neighbor as yourself.  Spend time this week considering how Jesus died for that difficult person and that person whom you don’t like to spend time with just like He died for you.  And Jesus loved that person just as much as He loves you. 

Also consider if this person might need God’s grace and mercy in their life and how you might be just the person to show them God’s loving embrace.  In your reflection, try to find some common ground in this relationship.  Ask yourself, how you would feel if this person were to die today?  Then spend time in those thoughts and feelings and allow God to direct you to what you need to do next.

OR

When Jesus died, His love remained and still remains.  Reflect on the people in your life who have died.  Spend time reflecting on the love they have left behind.  Consider writing them a love letter to let them know how much you love them and how you still feel their love even though they are no longer here on earth.

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, October 30th Readings

31st Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

God of hospitality

You bring me what I need

          often before I know I need it.

Within my soul is a place for You to dwell

          so You can be with me always.

When I awake each day

          You know what lies ahead.

This journey can be long, rocky and I can lose my way

          but You are there with open arms.

You see me when I feel lost and alone

          and You welcome me in!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Wisdom 11:22-12:2

  • Is God dwelling in you? How do you know? How would you explain God dwelling in you to another person?
  • God is described as “all knowing, creator of the universe” but He is also described as “dwelling inside of you”, describe a moment when you felt God in both instances.
  • Draw a picture of this reading. What does it look like to you? What images do you include?  hat colors do you use? What is the overall message you would send with your picture?

2Thessalonians 1:11-2:2

  • Share a time when God used another person to strengthen your faith. Share a time when God used you to help another person keep hold of their faith when it was shaken.
  • How has prayer brought fulfillment to you? How do you know prayer brings forth God’s grace?
  • Saint Paul’s pep talk is for all of us! What needs to be “shaken out of your mind” for you to be a better witness of Christ’s love for you?

Luke 19:1-10

  • Zacchaeus climbed a tree to see Jesus. What do you do, where do you go to see Jesus?
  • Like Zacchaeus, there are moments in your life when you are willing to climb a tree to catch a glimpse. Share a story of this from your own experience.
  • Do you climb the tree to see Jesus more clearly or do you do it to be seen by others?
  • How would you react if Jesus came to your home for dinner? What would you serve? Who might you invite?

General Questions for Journaling

  • If God created the universe and all that is within it, what evidence is there that He loves you?
  • If God loves only what He made, does this mean He doesn’t love things He didn’t make? Explain.
  • How do you show reverence to creation? To your neighbor?
  • When you make a meal, draw a picture, or create something else from scratch, how do you feel? Are you proud of your work or are you critical of the outcome?
  • As a parent, can you look at your child with anything other than love? Why or why not?
  • What are you doing to live in a way worthy of Christ? What does that mean?
  • Are there areas in your life that cause you to grumble? Have you ever let Jesus into those places? What can you do to open that area of conflict or worry up to Jesus and allow Him to change your grumbling into positive change?
  • What gives you your identity? Is it things such as titles or what you do for a living? Is it another person such as what role you play in the lives of others? Where does your identity come from? What can you learn from Zacchaeus about your own identity?
  • What makes you whole or what fills you up spiritually? Physically? Mentally? 
  • How does it feel when someone tells you, they are praying for you? Do you tell those you are praying for that you are praying for them?
  • Is there a word, phrase, or story which “shakes” you into action?
  • It was a great honor for Zacchaeus to have Jesus as a guest for dinner. How have you been honored or recognized in your life? Where was God in that experience?
  • According to God’s standards, what makes you great?
  • If Jesus invited himself to your house for dinner, what would you say? Would you be ready?
  • Jesus accepts Zacchaeus even though according to the “world’s” standards, he was a “sinner”. Is there someone in your life who you have “shut off” because of difference of opinion or belief? How can you learn from Jesus’ example to love people, no matter where they are at or where they are coming from?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  I welcome YOU Lord…

ALL:  in the still of the night and motion of the day!

Leader:  I welcome YOU Lord…

ALL:  as I head out each day; giving me direction!

Leader:  I welcome YOU Lord…

ALL: when I am alone and when I am with others!

Leader:  I welcome YOU Lord…

ALL:  even when you stretch me beyond my limits!

Leader:  I welcome YOU Lord…

ALL:  in my peaceful moments and in the chaos!

Leader:  I welcome YOU Lord…

ALL:  into my home with all of my heart!

Challenge for the Week:  Who is someone either you have met or have never met who influenced you in a positive way?  Make a list of the people who have helped form you into the person you are today.  Write down each of their names and how their words and/or actions have had a lasting effect on you. 

In turn, remember you are called by Christ to be Christ to others.  Consider your words and actions this week.  Pay close attention to how they compare or contrast with how you see Jesus in the Gospels.  Choose one or two ways you will work on to help your words or actions mirror what Jesus would do or say.  You might be the only experience of Christ someone ever experiences.  You want to be ready.

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 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.

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 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.  

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!

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 😉

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!

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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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!