Journal Reflections

Sunday, August 8th Readings

19th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord

Give me the courage to step out

You have shown me the way

Let me move forward

Allow your love and mercy

        overflow from me

So wherever I go, others see YOU!

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

1 Kings 19:4-8

  • Share a time when you were able to look back on a situation in your life and see how God prepared you to be able to continue forward.
  • Reflect on how this scripture teaches the difference between what you want and what God wants and how God cares for you even when you aren’t willing or able to continue.

Ephesians 4:30-5:2

  • St. Paul says to be “imitators of Christ”.  What about this statement is difficult for you to follow?  Be specific.  What holds you back from imitating Christ more often in your daily life?   
  • Bitterness, fury, anger, shouting, reviling, malice…what is it about these emotions that are difficult for you to let go?
  • Explain how a “sacrificial offering gives a fragrant aroma”.  More specifically, how does Jesus’ sacrifice give a fragrant aroma?

John 6:41-51

  • How does the imagery of Jesus being the bread of life feel to you?  Do you think this is a good comparison or would another image/comparison make more sense to you?  Explain.
  • The people in the crowd have a difficult time believing and understanding.  What is their roadblock?  Do you have any roadblocks when it comes to your faith? 

General Questions for Journaling

  • How does it make you feel that God is still cheering for you, providing your needs when you are ready to give up?
  • When has God pulled you out of a pity party?  What specifically did he say to make you smile?
  • Where do you go to hide from others?  God?  Yourself?  What about this place gives you comfort?
  • People say, God only gives you what you can handle.  Share a time when you screamed at God, ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!
  • Do you believe angels still speak to people today?  Has God ever sent you an angel?  Share the experience.
  • Do you remember your dreams?  Do you think God speaks to you through your dreams?  Explain.
  • Make a list of 5-10 things that will bring you back from a bad mood. 
  • How do you grieve?  Are there levels to your grief?  Where is grief in relation to sadness or pain or emptiness or devastation?   
  • When was the last time you forgave someone?  Is there need for you to forgive someone now?
  • When was the last time you forgave yourself?  Are you in need of forgiveness?
  • What is the significance of the Body and Blood of Jesus for you?  Explain.
  • What is your favorite part of the Eucharistic celebration?
  • Are you always in the right mindset to receive the Body and Blood of Christ?  How important do you think it is for you to be prepared and what exactly does that mean or look like?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  I want to be a part of your life forever…

ALL:  Jesus, you were with me at the moment of my first breath!

Leader:  I want to be a part of your life forever…

ALL:  Jesus, you were there when I stumbled and helped me get back up!

Leader: I want to be a part of your life forever…

ALL:  Jesus, you helped me see my life is about serving others, not myself!

Leader:  I want to be a part of your life forever…

ALL:  Jesus, you taught me what it means to love!

Leader:  I want to be a part of your life forever…

ALL:  Jesus, you never leave me, you are always with me!

Leader:  I want to be a part of your life forever…

ALL:  Jesus, you gave me life, everlasting!

Challenge for the Week:  Like Elijah in the first reading, each of us is on a journey to the Holy Mountain.  Reflect this week on that journey.  When have you wanted to just give up because you didn’t feel you were making an impact or doing as much as those before you?  It is hard for us not to get wrapped up in productivity.  Instead, God has a plan for each of us and he knows already when we sit and when we stand…even the thoughts in our head that tell us we can’t go on.  As you reflect, take time to thank God for those times when he has come to your aide to help you and give you what you need to continue on the journey.  The journey is long and we have many lessons to learn along the way but the Lord has prepared a place for you and you are on the pathway to find it.

GET CONNECTED DAILY! 

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

Sunday, August 1st Readings

18th Sunday Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

My God

Even in the desert places of my life

        YOU can hear me.

When I am grumbling and uncomfortable

        YOU can see me.

On those days when I look for solace

        YOU can touch me.

In my joy and in my sorrow

        YOU are there to fill me.

YOU are the aroma of my soul…

        may I always give thanks for your presence!

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

Exodus 16:2-4, 12-15

  • God provided each with their ‘daily bread’ and each was to take their ‘daily portion.’ How can you practice this in your life right now? 
  • Do you think God still sends down bread from heaven? Why or why not? Do you believe God sends things down from heaven?
  • Share some examples of grumblings you have for God. What fuels these grumblings? How does God respond? How do you want God to respond?

Ephesians 4:17, 20-24

  • What are practices of renewal? What are the things you must renew? How do you renew your mind? Your relationships? Your spirit? When was the last time you felt renewed in your faith?
  • What does it mean to ‘put away your old self?’
  • Make a list of ways you ‘renew your spirit.’ When was the last time you did one of these things? Does your spirit need renewed now?

John 6:24-35

  • How does the Eucharist feed you? How would you explain it to someone who has never received?
  • What is the bread from heaven which you receive today? How does it feed you in your life? Share specific examples of bread from heaven in your life. 
  • Do you pursue God? What is it you are seeking when you do so? What is the end result when you reach God?

General Questions for Journaling

  • When do you call on God? When you are afraid? When you are in need? When you are in trouble? Any other time?
  • If you were God, how would you feel about someone only coming to you when you need something?
  • Are there people in your life whom always complain to you? Do you enjoy listening to them complain? Why do you think they complain to you?
  • When was the last time you thanked God for giving you something you asked for or He met a need you had without you asking?
  • Do you think humans are naturally greedy? If yes, explain your answer. If not, where is greed learned? Is there anything you can do to reverse it?
  • Have you ever skipped a meal? Gone a day without eating? Describe what hunger feels like?
  • Do you believe hunger is physical or mental?
  • Have you ever made a change in your spiritual life so drastic that people took notice? What was it? What was the reaction of others?
  • Is change always difficult? Consider ways change can be good.
  • Consider a time when a painful transition in your life became helpful for another person. When was it, who was the person and how did it change or affect both of you?
  • Can you clean up your “act” like you clean up your house? Make some specific analogies of how.
  • Define the word “perish”. How does this apply to your life? Does good or bad come from things that perish? Do you allow things to perish or does God have control over that?
  • How does Eucharist give life to people today? Share some examples.
  • What are some of the things that sustain you in your life? Have these things always been the same or do they change as you deal with different situation and obstacles in your life?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  When given the opportunity to help…

ALL:  Guide me on the path of goodness!

Leader:  When I can’t decide what is right or wrong…

ALL:  Guide me on the path of righteousness!

Leader:  When I feel restless and unsatisfied…

ALL:  Guide me on the path of fulfillment!

Leader:  When I search for meaning and validation…

ALL:  Guide me on the path of truth!

Leader:  When I let go of our plans and follow you…

ALL:  Guide me on the path of holiness!

Challenge for the Week:  Saint Paul is not just talking to the Ephesians; he is speaking to you.  He says you should not live and act and think out of your mind; rather to renew your minds and live, act and think out of the holiness of truth. 

Of course, this is easier said than done. 

When you were baptized, presuming you were baptized as children, you were not likely aware of the commitment through baptism of a ‘daily conversion.’  It is as though you are a snake which sheds its skin as it grows.  As a committed disciple of Christ, you must also shed old thoughts, habits and attitudes.  This is how you can overcome and defeat those things which hold you back from a perfect relationship with God.  When you seek the truth, you come to find yourself growing in holiness because when you seek the truth you find God. 

What can you do this week to grow?  Where in your daily, weekly routines have you not sought after the truth and you feel as though you are suffocating (because of deceit and corruption) and you need to shed the skin of your old self?  It is time to be renewed!

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

Sunday, July 25th Readings

17th Sunday Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord

YOU never cease to amaze;

        I am filled with wonder and awe at YOUR creation

YOU set the moon and the stars into motion;

        and breathed life into each of me.

YOU provide for my every need;

        sometimes through miraculous works of mercy or kindness.

Many are the gifts which YOU provide

        for all YOUR children.

YOU bless me, YOU love me, YOU provide for me

        YOU are the bread of life!

Journal/Reflection Questions

2Kings 4:42-44

  • Share a time when you didn’t think God provided enough? How was it like this scripture passage?
  • Why do you think there was enough for all to eat and still some leftover? 
  • Could you trust God like Elisha did and ignore logic to allow God to take care of it? Explain.

Ephesians 4:1-6

  • What does Saint Paul mean when he says to “preserve the unity of the spirit, through the bond of peace”?  How could you explain this to a new believer? How can you preserve unity?
  • How does your life show you believe that there is “one God…who is over all and through all and in all”? Give examples.

John 6:1-15

  • What would you tell a child about the distribution of food resources around the world? What do you believe God is teaching the world to do about it through this Gospel? Is there something specific you can do?
  • Imagine being there with Jesus, the disciples and the others. Would you expect Jesus to provide you with a meal if you traveled to the countryside to listen to him? Describe how you’d have felt if you were one of the disciples.

General Questions for Journaling

  • Have you ever been without enough food to eat? What did you do? Did you trust you would have food again? 
  • Share a time when God provided you with what you needed at the time it was required. What did you have to do for it to happen? How do you know God was involved?
  • On a scale from 1-10, how much do you trust God to provide for your needs? How would you rate your willingness to take a leap of faith?
  • What does your faith tell you to hope for? Do you believe wholly this will happen? What evidence do you have that makes it true?
  • Reflect on a time when you had to give more than you had to give.  What was the situation? How did it work out? Where was God in the situation/outcome? What did you learn from the experience?
  • Can a person be a prisoner in their own life?  To what are they imprisoned?  Have you personally experienced this?
  • Define a blessing. Are there limits to it?
  • Do you believe in miracles? Why or why not? How would you define a miracle?
  • How is a blessing and a miracle similar?  How are they different?
  • What do the scriptures this week tell you about generosity? Trust? Unity? Kindness? Humility? Patience? Getting your fill? What lesson do you think God wants you to learn from them?
  • When God shows up in your life, how do you feel?
  • Do you ever regret the time you spend with God? Why or why not?
  • Describe how God “feeds” you. What can you compare the feeling to?
  • How is the “fullness” of God like or unlike being “full” after a meal?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Through the work of my hands…

ALL:  May I find fulfilment in YOU, Lord!

Leader:  Through the words I speak…

ALL:  May I find fulfilment in YOU, Lord!

Leader:  Through the prayers I pray…

ALL:  May I find fulfilment in YOU, Lord!

Leader:  Through my gratitude and humility…

ALL:  May I find fulfilment in YOU, Lord!

Leader:  Through the bread and wine…

ALL:  May I find fulfilment in YOU, Lord!

Challenge for the Week:  The Gospel message and the First Reading both talk about “leftovers”.  What do you think happens to the “leftovers”?  In today’s world, many of people plan meals for leftovers (especially on Thanksgiving) or enjoy taking a “doggie bag” when you go out for a meal.  There are some people who don’t like leftovers and won’t eat them, while others like to take leftovers and make them into something else altogether.  Still, many people will tell you that leftovers just aren’t the same or as good the second time around, while there are some foods that are just as good or better the next day!  Reflect on how this compares to God’s love. 

Some additional things to reflect on…

  • Do you give God love, only after you’ve shared with other? 
  • Does God devalue your time spent with Him when you do it out of obligation, instead of intentionally? 
  • Is there a quality of love God gives? 
  • How does it compare to the quality of love you give to him and others? 
  • Consider where you are giving ‘leftover’ love. 
  • Can you tell when someone giving love to you isn’t sincere or genuine?  How does that make you feel? 

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

Sunday, July 18th Readings

16th Sunday Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Savior,

I wander aimlessly

Let me hear your voice more clearly

Your deepest desire is for me to be with you

Allow me to empty space

So you can fill me

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

Jeremiah 23:1-6

  • What do you believe makes a “bad shepherd”? What does God say will be done to those who mislead or do not care for the flock?
  • Where can you be a “good shepherd” to help aid and lead others to safety? Identify three things specifically you can do.

Ephesians 2:13-18

  • Reflect on some of the walls which divide people today. Which ones are evident in your life, your family, your community? What can be done to start to break down the walls that divide those around you?
  • Recall a story from the news or from your own life where you witnessed a dividing wall tumbling down. Share that story of restoration with three people this week.
  • What does this scripture offer in the form of advice?

Mark 6:30-34

  • Jesus was moved with pity for the crowds gathered…why? Can you think of an example from today where Jesus would also be moved with pity for those gathered?
  • How would you react if you were in this Gospel reading? Imagine having just come back from a long trip and you are taking a break to regain your energy. However, just as you are about to really relax, you are faced with having to go out again. What would you do? Could you show mercy for these people and give them what they need and sacrifice what you need?  Would you instead ask them for mercy to allow you to get the rest you need? How often are you asked to give more than you have for the benefit of others?
  • Jesus calls his disciples who work for him to take time for themselves. How do you take time for yourself?

General Questions for Journaling

  • How would you explain that God is just? What helps you to know God is just? Are there examples? 
  • Are there moments in your life when you look back and wonder where God was? Have you ever experienced a time when God wasn’t with you?
  • Where are modern day shepherds? Are they easy or hard to identify and find?
  • Who are the shepherds in your life?  What makes them voices you listen to and follow?
  • Can you be a shepherd and be a sheep as well? How is this possible? Identify situations where you are one or the other or both.
  • What is it about shepherds that God values? What are some of the characteristics needed to make a good shepherd?
  • Where do you see injustice happening in the world today? Who are the “shepherds” leading the flock? 
  • Where do you see an abundance of compassion in the world? What can you do to increase the work being done already?
  • Would you say fear is a major cause or contributor to injustice? Why or why not?
  • Is there someone in your life whom you feel sorry for? What is the situation? What do or can you do for them?
  • So many people live without purpose; what can you do to help lead them to the shepherd?
  • What does the symbol of the cross mean to you?  Has it changed over the years or does it remain the same as you always remember?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, Lead me to do what is right

ALL:  Let me hear your voice over the noise.

Leader:  Lord, Lead me to do what is right

ALL:  Give me courage to follow.

Leader: Lord, Lead me to do what is right

ALL:  Even when the road is steep and narrow.

Leader:  Lord, Lead me to do what is right

ALL:  Allow your spirit to radiate in me.

Leader:  Lord, Lead me to do what is right

ALL:  My hands reach out for justice.

Leader:  Lord, Lead me to do what is right

ALL:  Bring peace to this world.

Challenge for the Week:  There are many “divides” among people.  It could be political, religious, racial, economical and the list goes on.  These divides can seem deep where many people fall in between the cracks, while others seem so high to climb that it is deemed impossible to meet in the middle.  To bridge the divide might even seem like a waste of time and energy especially if you don’t have an opinion putting you on one side or the other.  However, there are other walls which divide people that are not so commonly spoken about…the wall built to keep people out because of personal prejudices or walls that you put up to protect you from having to change the way you do things or the way you think.  Individuals build walls in relationships to keep others from causing hurt feelings.  And it’s a defensive tactic to build roadblocks at work in order to achieve success.  However, sometimes those roadblocks become stumbling blocks to trip over and land flat on your face!  These things apply to your relationship with your God and Savior too. 

Spend time this week thinking about the walls you have built up around you, the roadblocks you have secured which have caused you to detour and the stumbling blocks you have tripped over; many of which you may be blaming someone else for setting up, but really you need to accept responsibility for creating it.  If it helps get a pen/pencil and a piece of paper to draw a diagram of these things so you can get a visual of just how many obstacles there are and if there is a pathway around these things.  Make the decision to choose one of these things to “break down” and clear the path.  Remember to seek God, your Shepherd to help make the pathway straight!

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

Sunday, July 11th Readings

15th Sunday Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord

So many times a day

        I need you.

Together we travel

        through ups and downs.

You stay with me

        even when I turn from you.

Thank you for being my

        constant companion.

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

Amos 7:12-15

  • When have you felt God calling you to something you are/were not qualified to do?  What did you do about it?  Did you make the right choice? How did you know it was God pulling you?
  • Through Baptism we are all called to be “priest, prophet and king”.  God has already called you to be a prophet like Amos if you are baptized…how are you living out your call as a prophet?

Ephesians 1:3-14

  • How does it make you feel to hear/read the words “God has known you for eternity”? What does this mean to you? How does it make sense?
  • How can you explain to a child or new believer that God has known you/them since the beginning of creation? What words or images would you use to explain?
  • What does it mean to you to be “sealed with the promised Holy Spirit”?  How do you feel, see, know the Holy Spirit is in your life right now?

Mark 6:7-13

  • Jesus told to disciples to “dust off your feet”; are there hurts, regrets, ideals that need to be “dusted off your feet” for you to be stronger in your testimony to the Gospel?
  • The scripture says they were sent out with no food, no sack and no money. How would you fare in this situation? What was the purpose of doing this? Could you go on a journey with nothing? Are there things you are attached to which keep you from doing the work God has called you to do? 
  • The disciples were sent out two by two.  What is the purpose of this?  How is this relevant today? Who would you consider your “partner in crime” to spread the Gospel message?

General Questions for Journaling

  • People say “God only gives us what we can handle”, you find this true? Why or why not? What are other ways to say, “God only gives us what we can handle”? 
  • When was the last time you spoke out against an injustice? Or when did you last speak up for something you believe in? What was it? How did you feel?
  • What are your “hot topic” conversations, those which you feel strongly about and would happily debate your side against another?
  • Have you ever spoken out and been the only one with that idea or opinion? How did it feel? Did you regret sharing your input? What did you learn from the experience?
  • What are those “hot topic” conversations which you have been witness to but didn’t contribute to? How did you feel? What were those feelings or emotions? Why do you think you felt that way?
  • How do you know someone is “qualified”? What qualities do you look for in a friend, husband, co-worker, boss, President? How do your standards of qualifying compare to how God seeks out prophets and disciples?
  • How would you describe your ‘comfort zone’. What does it look like? Sound like? Smell like? Taste like? How does it feel?
  • How have you felt God’s love this past week? What does it feel like to receive God’s grace?
  • Describe what it is like to have the Holy Spirit active in your life. Name 3 times when the Holy Spirit has been active in your life this week.
  • What are some things you hope for?  Do you have a list? Are the things you hope for just for you or do they benefit others?
  • Describe hospitality?  How is it done well?
  • What can you do this week to help people feel welcome and comfortable?  How is this a reflection of God’s love and evangelization?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Your grace covers me like a warm blanket

ALL:  Lord, I put my trust in YOU!

Leader:  Your mercy fills me like a river that overflows

ALL:  Lord, I put my trust in YOU!

Leader: Your Word brightens my day like the sun

ALL:  Lord, I put my trust in YOU!

Leader:  My sin is washed clean with the rain

ALL:  Lord, I put my trust in YOU!

Leader:  Your Spirit guides me like the wind

ALL:  Lord, I put my trust in YOU!

Leader:  Your love is welcoming like the shade tree

ALL:  Lord, I put my trust in YOU!

Challenge for the Week:  Many people would say their cell phone is their lifeline.  It has all their personal information, passwords to accounts, contact information with friends and families phone numbers and addresses and they even hold memories.  Could you go a day without your phone?  Would you know someone’s phone number to call if you needed help?  These questions are a real challenge. Ask yourself, how much importance do you put into this material thing?  Whatever degree you are connected to your cell phone and rely on the information it holds; it is simply your connection to the world.  What is your connection to the spiritual?  In church people are taught the words of the Bible, “Jesus is the way the truth and the life” which teaches Jesus is the lifeline to the eternal.  This week reflect on how dependent you are to things that are not eternal.  What do you cling to and what are the consequences or benefits of doing so?  Perhaps even test out your presumptions and leave your cell phone at home one day or turn it off except for when you need to make a call.  It could really help focus your thoughts on your true lifeline, JESUS!

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

Sunday, July 4th Readings

14th Sunday Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Generous Lord,

YOU love me even when I turn away from YOU;

        YOU give me abundant chances to turn to YOU.

YOU make YOUR presence known in my life;

        even though I often don’t recognize YOU.

YOU gather me close to YOU accepting me for who I am;

        wrapped in YOUR mercy, made whole in YOU!!!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Ezekiel 2:2-5

  • Consider what Ezekiel means by “they shall know a prophet has been among them”; how might they know?
  • How would you feel if you were sent to face “rebels” who are “hard to face” and “obstinate of heart”? Can you think of a time when you were truly put into that kind of situation? Where was God in the situation?

2Corinthians 12:7-10

  • Can you see God in your weakness? How?
  • How would you explain “power is made perfect in weakness”? Share an example from your life or from someone you know.

Mark 6:1-6

  • Can you relate to Jesus, being rejected in your “native place”, “among kin”, “his own house”? How?
  • Jesus is “amazed at their lack of faith”, what words or actions caused Him to believe this to be true? How would you fair?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Have you ever rejected the advice of a close confidant? What was their advice? What did you do instead? What was the outcome?
  • Do you ever find yourself closed off to God’s message? Share a time when you were rebellious to God’s Word.
  • Would you describe yourself as stubborn? A loved one? What makes you so and about what are you stubborn?
  • Have you ever experienced a time when you felt your ideas and suggestions were completely ignored? What did you do? Were you eventually able to give your input or were you completely rejected?
  • Are there places in your life where you avoid spending time? Do you keep things from God?
  • Has God shown power through your weakness? When? What was the circumstance?
  • Name some of those who are rejected for their current ideas. What do people say about them? What is the message they are trying to covey?
  • How would you define a prophet? Who are some of the prophets of the Old and New Testament? According to your definition, what current day prophets have impacted your life? (they could be alive or dead)

Closing Prayer

Leader:  For the victims born and unborn…

ALL:  Let me see as YOU see.

Leader:  For the neglected and unloved…

ALL:  Let me see as YOU see.

Leader:  For inhumanity and injustice…

ALL:  Let me see as YOU see.

Leader:  For the prideful and arrogant…

ALL:  Let me see as YOU see.

Leader:  Change our view so I may

ALL:  See as YOU see.

Challenge for the Week:  This week as you go about your daily routines, dwell on the words, “my grace is sufficient”.  Meditate on what these words mean to you, not just your initial reaction but to the point where you feel the meaning.  Write down what comes to mind when you think about those words; when they apply to situations throughout your week.  It may be in a conversation which seems to go nowhere.  It could be when you find something doesn’t work out the way you expected. It is possible it is at the beginning of each day and at the end of each day in reflection of what lies ahead and what you leave behind. Let these words become a part of your attitude and so allowing God to fill you with the grace you need…it is always sufficient!

Written weekly by Heather Neds, faith blogger. For more see https://makingscripturerelevant.com or Making Scripture Relevant on Facebook and Instagram.

Sunday, June 27th Readings

13th Sunday Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord

You are the beginning and the end.

You are the alpha and the omega.

You are the day and the night.

You are life and death.

Let me seek you in all things and at all times!

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

Wisdom 1:13-15; 2:23-24

  • The scripture says, “by the envy of the devil”, for what does the devil need to be envious?
  • What clarity do you find in this scripture about your purpose to live and the reason God created you?

2 Corinthians 8:7, 9, 13-15

  • Explain, “whoever had much did not have more, and whoever has little did not have less.”
  • How does this scripture explain the feeling of empathy? Does it inspire you to help other? What can you do right away?
  • How does the abundance of God make you feel?

Mark 5:21-43 or 5:21-24, 35b-43

  • Jesus simply needed to be present to heal. Are there situations in your life where all you really need to do is be there for another person?
  • This woman “encounters” Jesus. What does that mean to you? Do you remember your first encounter with Jesus?
  • When have you touched Jesus? Describe the experience.

General Questions for Journaling

  • Share an experience when you knew God was on your side.
  • Share an experience when you knew the devil was envious of your words or actions.
  • If God created man to be imperishable, how do you explain feelings of being defeated or broken down? Where do you see abundance in your life? How can you share it?
  • What are the qualities of humankind?
  • Are any of the qualities of humankind the same as the qualities of God?
  • What qualities of God do you wish you had?  What keeps you from having those qualities?
  • Draw a picture of yourself in God’s image. 
  • How does knowing God made all things change how you look at a person? An animal? An insect? A spider? A landscape?
  • Have you ever been on the receiving end of abundance given freely?
  • How does God’s presence impact you? Be specific.
  • How many times do you think a person must encounter God before they are a believer and follower?
  • Is there something that always lifts your spirits? Maybe a song or a special treat or hearing someone speak with voice full of helium?
  • How come people say God provides? How does God pay my rent?
  • Describe how you’d act in a room with extremely wealthy people. How is it different from the question below?
  • Describe how you’d act in a room full of people in deep poverty. How is it different from the question above?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, you created me…

ALL:  so I could find you!

Leader:  Lord, you created me…

ALL:  so I could see you!

Leader: Lord, you created me…

ALL:  so I could touch you!

Leader:  Lord, you created me…

ALL:  so I could hear you!

Leader:  Lord, you created me…

ALL:  so I could know you!

Leader:  Lord, you created me…

ALL:  so I could share you!

Challenge for the Week:  Have you ever gone to serve a meal or sat down for a meal at a shelter? Reflect this week on that experience (or those experiences). Think about how you felt, what you saw, whom you met and the circumstances which brought you to that place. Society would say you were in a place of poverty, is that what you saw? Perhaps. If your experience is anything like the ones I have had, you may have seen the world’s definition of poverty but not God’s. Some of the most generous and grateful people I have ever met are ones I have met by working in a soup kitchen, food pantry or shelter. When we reach out to others with our abundance of time, talent or treasure, we don’t expect to be touched in return by God’s grace but believe me it happens!

Sunday, June 20th Readings

12th Sunday Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord

You are the maker of all things;

You do not make junk.

Change my mind;

rid me of all worry and stress.

Allow me to let go;

and let you direct my life.

Guide me through your Word;

so I may live more for others than myself.

Journal/Reflection Questions

Job 38:1, 8-11

  • What is God trying to teach Job in this scripture? What lesson does God want you to learn?
  • Are you going through a storm in your life right now? Identify the source of the storm; was it self-made, man-made or created by God?

2Corinthians 5:14-17

  • How has the love of God called you into action? 
  • Define what it means to you to be a “new creation”?

Mark 4:35-41

  • What in your life causes you to be paralyzed with fear? How do you overcome fear?
  • The disciples were there together; who do you turn to when you see a storm coming? 

General Questions for Journaling

  • What do you do when you see a storm coming? How do you feel?
  • When you see a storm coming how do you react? Push on? Pull back? Simply hold on?
  • Do you believe God sets limits? What do you believe God limits?
  • Have you experienced a storm where you know God was with you?
  • Have you experienced a storm where you questioned God’s presence?
  • Reflect on who or what you live for; is it in honor of someone or something, it is for your own good, is it for Christ’s glory, or something else?
  • Are there things in your life which you missed out on experiencing because of fear? Do you have any regrets? What do you think God wants you to do about the things you regret?
  • Where do fears come from? How do they start? Do you believe fears are something each person is born with or are they something a person develops?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Be the calm in the storm when I am going down…

ALL:  Come to me!

Leader:  Be the gentle water washing away my selfish thoughts…

ALL:  Wash over me!

Leader:  Be the filter which keeps my thoughts and actions pure…

ALL:  Cleanse me!

Leader:  Be my floodgate to hold me back from temptation…

ALL:  Surround me!

Leader: Be the waves which drive my actions…

ALL:  Consume me!

Leader:  When I pursue you…

ALL:  I am overwhelmed by your loving presence!

Challenge for the Week:  Make the decision to let go of control of ONE THING in your life and allow God to take over.  Focus on that ONE THING in prayer, not asking God to do what you want Him to do in the situation but to truly hand it over to him.  Imagine that ONE THING as an onion; as you start let go of your control over the situation, allowing God to take charge, think about each layer of the onion being peeled away.  As you pray to allow yourself to let God take over, you might also imagine yourself as that onion; allowing God to shed the weight of the worry, anxiety, stress you carry because of that situation.  This process takes time; it takes attention and lots of practice!  If you aren’t patient, you can end up with a smelly onion which only makes the situation worse; however if you allow God to take over your situation the onion will become nothing and the situation won’t seem as daunting.

Sunday, June 13th Readings

11th Sunday Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

God,

You created me from the dirt

        with the Holy Spirit.

I become a new creation

        through the Sacraments.

You gave me eternal life

        by the death and resurrection of Jesus.

May I stay rooted in these truths,

        bearing good fruit for others.

Help me to grow in you,

        following the path you set out for me.

Be my guide, my comfort and omy peace.

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

Ezekiel 17:22-24

  • How are you able to provide “shade” or “shelter” to others through your connection to God?
  • If God can make a tree bigger or smaller or make one bloom or wither; what does this say about what He can do for you?

2Corinthians 5:6-10

  • What does it mean to “walk by faith and not by sight”? What does it look like?
  • Share an example of someone you know or of a personal experience of living by faith and not by sight.

Mark 4:26-34

  • How is God like the farmer in the parable? Where do you see yourself?
  • Do you give the same attention to detail as the farmer did to his crop as you do to your own spiritual life?
  • Do you tend to the work of your job the way the farmer tends to the crop?  If so how does it feel?  If not, what does it mean?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Share an example when you were able to live out the “least become great and the great become the least”.
  • When did Jesus model the “least to great and great to least” attitude?
  • Who other than Jesus in the bible practice the “least to great and great to least” attitude?
  • Where do you go for “shade”? What are some examples of when you need it? How does it feel when you find it?
  • Are there people whom you “shade” or offer protection? Do you do it naturally or did they ask for your help?
  • When would you say you “lose” your courage? Where does it go?
  • What helps you gain or re-gain courage when you need it?
  • Share an example or two of people whom you look up to who show or have shown great courage and how they inspire you.
  • When do you feel the most courageous? Be specific.
  • When do you feel the least courageous? Be specific.
  • What pleases God? How do you know?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Life begins as a seed,

ALL:  in the darkness.

Leader:  It is nourished and fed,

ALL:  and begins to sprout growth.

Leader: It soaks up the rain and the sun,

ALL:  which is given freely.

Leader:  Branches bend and sway,

ALL:  but the roots are strong.

Leader:  Over time it becomes a new creation,

ALL:  offering shade, shelter and support.

Leader:  Feed me Lord,

ALL:  plant and sow seeds of love, mercy, grace and forgiveness in my life.

Challenge for the Week:  Jesus used parables to help the disciples and other followers understand faith, love and the Kingdom of God.  In each parable, there is deep symbolism to explore.  This week, try to find a symbol which richly describes your faith and spirituality.  It might be something that has been passed on for generations in your family, it might be a gift you recently received, it might be something you or someone you know made especially for you.  Whatever it might be, there is deeper meaning to it than others can see.  As you search, remember the celebration of the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ…the bread and wine are simply food and drink to some but the Catholic faith teaches and believes them to be the body and blood of Jesus, Savior and Lord.  Also, the mustard seed, so small and meek but within it there is the predisposition to become a giant tree.  After seeking out your symbol, try to write out a parable/story/reflection about it.

Sunday, June 6th Readings)

Solemnity of The Body and Blood of Christ

Opening Prayer

Jesus,

You are the promise of salvation.

You are the blood shed for sin.

There is no one who loves more;

        who would sacrifice for the sake of all.

Make me your tabernacle, Lord!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Exodus 24:3-8

  • What is the significance of signing in blood/sealing the covenant in blood? What meaning does it have today?
  • What covenant do you have with God? Is it the same one as the Israelites? How well do you keep your side of the promise?
  • How is this gathering like people gathering in church on Sunday?  What are the similarities?  Can you list at least three?

Hebrews 9:11-15

  • Imagine yourself in this scripture? Where are you?
  • What are the dead works in your life? How can you begin to cleanse yourself of these obstacles?

Mark 14:12-16, 22-26

  • What significance is there that the man the disciples found was carrying a jar of water? Is there any at all?
  • What do you know of Passover?  What preparations are needed?
  • When Jesus took the bread, He said the blessing AND when He took the cup, He gave thanks. What should you do to follow in Jesus’ footsteps? What was the last thing you thanked God for?

General Questions for Journaling

  • What does the blood signify in these scriptures? 
  • What does blood have to do with life? With death? How is this also true in your spiritual life?
  • How do you celebrate the “new covenant” Jesus gave; eternal salvation? How do live it out at home? At work? In church? 
  • What if your dead works were as visible as the dead heads on a rose bush? Are you sure they aren’t? 
  • Jesus shed His blood for you; have you shed anything for Him?
  • Does the consumption of Jesus’ body and blood have conditions or expectations?
  • Do you feel differently when you receive communion? 
  • How does receiving Jesus in the Eucharist change you? Share a specific example.
  • Do you believe it is Jesus’ body and blood you receive when you go to communion? 
  • How do you show reverence to Jesus in the Eucharist?  (Eucharist is the body and blood of Christ and means thanksgiving)
  • Define tabernacle.
  • What is the definition of a sacrifice? Is it a true sacrifice when there is not blood? What about when you sacrifice your time for the sake of another or sacrifice your “at bat” for the good of the team?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  When one life begins and another one ends…

ALL:  Lord, may I always be open to all you have to give.

Leader:  When a door is closed and another is cracked open…

ALL:  Lord, may I always be open to all you have to give.

Leader:  When each season ends to welcome the next one in…

ALL:  Lord, may I always be open to all you have to give.

Leader: When the darkness of night is overcome by the light of a new day…

ALL:  Lord, may I always be open to all you have to give.

Leader:  When you give yourself as an offering…

ALL:  Lord, may I always be open to all you have to give.

Challenge for the Week:  When you receive Jesus in Holy Communion, how do you live your life knowing Jesus is a part of you?  Do you acknowledge that as a fact and set your mind to live with the understanding that Jesus is within you?  Or do you nonchalantly consume Jesus without paying any mind to the great gift you have just been given.  Even starting from before you receive communion, what is your mindset about what you are about to do?  Are you in the moment or simply going through the motions?  Father Ron Rolheiser says that to receive the Eucharist is to receive a kiss from God.  Take some time this week to read through the second reading again and reflect on it.  Then pray a prayer of thanks for all God has given to you.