Love God

Sunday, January 8th Readings

Epiphany of Our Lord

Opening Prayer

Lord

You shine like a star for all to see

You bring light to the dark places

You pour out Your goodness

You fill me until I overflow

Help me to radiate in this world, like YOU!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 60:1-6

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

Ephesians 3:2-3, 5-6

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

Matthew 2:1-12

  • The Magi travelled a great distance to find Jesus. How far have you travelled to find Jesus? What makes the journey worth it?
  • How will you pay homage to Jesus this year? Do any of your resolutions help you deepen your relationship with him? What gifts do you bring to Jesus?
  • The scriptures over the past month have given us examples of how God speaks to his people through dreams. Does this cause you to look at your dreams in a different way?
  • Do you think God still speaks to his beloved people through dreams? Why or why not?
  • What do your dreams warn you against? Do you listen?

General Questions for Journaling

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

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, You are a shining light…

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

Leader:Lord, You are a shining light…

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

Leader:  Lord, You are a shining light…

ALL:  spotlight the path I must follow.

Leader:  Lord, You are a shining light…

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

Leader:  Lord, You are a shining light…

ALL:  awaken me to Your radiance!

Challenge for the Week:  Throughout Jesus’ life, He unwrapped the gift of Himself and shared the gifts with others.  Jesus was a good son, obedient to God, a teacher, a healer and a welcomed companion and friend.  What gifts have you been born with but have not unwrapped?  Have you unwrapped gifts within you which you have not shared with others?  What keeps you from unwrapping the gifts and sharing them?  Spend time this week reflecting on your life and the gifts which you have been given and unwrapped.  Have you used the gifts to the benefit of God?  Have you kept the gifts to yourself or only shared them with a few people?  Are there still gifts left for you to unwrap?  How do you know when it is time to unwrap and share the gifts you have been given?  Light a candle in your home to help remind you to reflect on the gift Jesus is and the gift you are too!

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

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

Sunday, December 4th Readings

2nd Sunday of Advent

Opening Prayer

Come Holy Spirit… 

          Reshape!

          Embrace!

Set the world on fire with YOUR love!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 11:1-10

  • What are the qualities of God? What do you know and understand of God?
  • What does it mean to “fill the earth with knowledge of the Lord”?
  • Do you see the gifts of the Holy Spirit lived out in your life? Where? How can you be more intentional about using those gifts?
  • Share a present-day example of the “wolf being the guest of the lamb”.

Romans 15:4-9

  • What advice does Saint Paul give here? Do his words ring true for us today? How?
  • Is it easy or difficult to “think in harmony” with another person? What good comes from just agreeing with them? What harm? What does God call you to do in these situations?
  • What walls do you have in front of you as obstacles of unity with others?
  • Are there people in your life whom you find it easier to agree in order to keep peace? What good comes from this?

Matthew 3:1-12

  • How would you respond to John’s call? Knowing what you know about John’s character, what do you think is call was like? Would you be persuaded, or would you turn away?
  • What about John the Baptist would cause you to believe? What would draw you in to be baptized by him?
  • John the Baptist was not worthy to carry Jesus’ sandals; what are things you do not think you are worthy of doing?
  • Are you “on fire” for God? What do your words and actions say?

General Questions for Journaling

  • What opens you to the mystery of God?
  • What do you long for? What do you need this holiday? Where can you find it?
  • Jesus came from a long line of faithful servants. What does your lineage say about faith? What is your faith DNA?
  • The season change indicates it’s time to cut back plants, flowers and trees and bring them in to protect them from the winter frost. How is this true of your faith and relationships?
  • What changes do you need to make in order to clear out “dead wood” in your life? In your beliefs? In your relationships?
  • In retrospect, what changes in your life are you most proud of making? What was the change and what makes you proud of this change?
  • What good comes from you? Where did it come from?
  • Where do you see justice prevail? Share an example.
  • Do you have a sacred place where you feel at peace?
  • Have you ever had such a peace come over you, you felt as though no harm could come to you? Explain.
  • How do you achieve peace in your life? Is it achievable? 
  • How does the Christmas season bring harmony?
  • How does the Christmas season hinder harmony?
  • How does the coming of Jesus give you hope in the world today?
  • How do you feel welcomed? Where do you feel welcomed?
  • How does the Christmas season encourage your faith?
  • How does the Christmas season discourage your faith?
  • What warning(s) have you received of pending doom? 
  • Is it fear of a vengeful wrath or the love of God which keeps you on the straight path?
  • Where do you produce good fruit in your life? What are some things you can change so you can produce more?
  • What fans the flames within you to make you bigger, better and stronger in your faith?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  In the waters of baptism…

ALL:  bring the Spirit of God!

Leader:  Through works of mercy…

ALL:  bring the Spirit of God!

Leader:  In the gift of peace…

ALL: bring the Spirit of God!

Leader:  As I welcome others…

ALL:  bring the Spirit of God!

Leader:  While I sing your praise…

ALL:  bring the Spirit of God!

Leader:  Set my heart on fire…

ALL:  Spirit of God!

Challenge for the Week:  Catholic’s celebrate the coming of Jesus at Christmas in the season called Advent.  They create an atmosphere of peace, hope, joy, and anticipation with sacramentals such as the Advent Wreath, special Scriptures, and traditional songs.  The church is decorated in deep purples and rose, the colors of Advent, instead of the Christmas colors of red, green, and white.  For many, it is easy to take for granted this time of Advent when outside of the church.  The world barely takes notice of how the Church on a greater scale is stepping out and pointing the way to Jesus, instead of what is happening in the world during the “busy holiday season”.  Inside the Catholic church, the attributes of Advent; peace, hope, joy, and anticipation, are on display and there to remind believers about the true reason for the season.  Take time this week to reflect on what role you play in keeping these Advent attributes alive in your life.  What can you do to point toward Jesus, creating an atmosphere of peace, hope, joy, and anticipation?  How can you be like John the Baptist, a voice in the wilderness, keeping Advent alive!

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

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

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, October 16th Readings

29th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Generous God

You give me food from heaven    

          so I have the nourishment I need.

You give me a source of water

          so I can be refreshed and clean.

You also give me friends

          so I can be supported when

          my load just seems to get to heavy.

Thank you Lord,

          for providing all of my needs.

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Exodus 17:8-13

  • Moses needed the help of others to pray without ceasing. Who are the people in your life who help you stay faithful? 
  • What does the scripture tell you about the importance of prayer?

2Timothy 3:14-4:2

  • How are you challenged to use scripture in your life in this reading? What can you do to make this happen more regularly?
  • How is the Gospel/Word of God lived out in the world today? Is it hard or easy to find? Is it easily recognizable or is it disguised?
  • When has your faith been convenient? When has it been inconvenient? What does Saint Paul say you should do about it?

Luke 18:1-8

  • How does this reading make you feel about prayer?
  • What does this reading say about how God answers prayer?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Who or what keeps you persistent in your prayer?
  • Where do you go when you need help? Is help always given?
  • Body language communicates much, so when you see Jesus with his arms stretched out, you can imagine the sacrifice He made on the cross. However, what else do outstretched arms say? What does it mean when you stretch out your arms in prayer?
  • When was the last time you proclaimed the Word of God to others? Your spouse? Your friends? Your kids? Your co-workers? How was this done? What was their reaction?
  • Who last proclaimed with word of God to you? Was it someone close to you? A stranger? Your church? How was it done? What was your response?
  • How can you pray and NOT grow weary? Is it possible?
  • Why is it difficult to pray regularly? What gets in your way? Are you able to keep a pattern of prayer for a long period of time? What keeps you disciplined to do pray regularly?
  • When did you last ask others to pray for you? What was the situation? How did you feel knowing others were praying for you and with you?
  • How can prayer change you?
  • Have you ever felt like your prayers weren’t answered? Why or why not?
  • When you pray are you ready to listen for the answer?
  • Do you pray for those who judge you and for those whom you have judged? 
  • Why should you pray petitions to God? Doesn’t He already know what you need?
  • When did God answer your prayer? Was it in the way you expected?
  • Have you experienced a prayer miracle? When was it? Who was there? What was the circumstance?
  • Do you allow yourself to be vulnerable in your prayer? Do you ask God for what you need or what you want? Is there a difference?
  • How can persistent prayer save you from your enemies?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  When I am weak

ALL:  may I find strength…everlasting!

Leader:  When I am blinded

ALL:  may I find my sight…everlasting!

Leader:  When I am weary

ALL:  may I find my contentment…everlasting!

Leader:  When I am lame

ALL:  may I find my healing…everlasting!

Leader:  When I am suffering

ALL:  may I find my blessing…everlasting!

Leader:  When I am alone

ALL:  may I find my Savior…everlasting!

Challenge for the Week:  Consider the following questions: What is the role of prayer in your life?  How do you pray?  When do you pray?  Is there a routine to your prayer?  Do you have a specific place where you pray?  Is there structure to your prayer or is it completely random?  Are there people whom you pray for?  Do you ask others to pray for you?  What value do you put on prayer?  Do you only pray for yourself and your loved ones or do you include people you don’t know?  Do you pray for specific things to happen?  Are your prayers general/generic?  Is your language formal or informal when you pray?  Do you pray by yourself or with others?  How important is prayer to your life?  Do others know how important/unimportant prayer is to you?  Spend time pondering these questions this week and then pray with purpose!

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 9th Readings

28th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Spirit of God

As I journey through this life,

          may I not forget the lives of those before me.

Let me spend time reflecting,

          on the sacrifices others make for my sake.

Working, dreaming, praying, surviving,

          for someone they would never meet.

What can I do for those who lived before?

          Remember and show gratitude to those ahead.

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

2Kings 5:14-17

  • The leper was asked to wash in the river, which was a normal everyday task. He doubted God’s healing through the mundane. Where did God last cause a miracle to happen in your life? Was it through something spectacular or through something ordinary?
  • Why does the water heal? What makes it different from any other time he went to the river?
  • Have you experienced a cleansing like Naaman? Explain.

2Timothy 2:8-13

  • How do you suffer for the Gospel today? How does the faith community? How does the U.S.? The world?
  • What does it mean to be linked to the suffering of Christ? How does this look in your life?
  • In what ways do you deny God? Are there areas of your life that you don’t allow God into?
  • What do you deny yourself of? What does it take for you to do so? How does it affect those around you?

Luke 17:11-19

  • Who are the lepers of our time? How do you serve the marginalized and hurting?
  • What do you think causes Jesus to feel pity?
  • Why do you think only one shows gratitude?

General Questions for Journaling

  • When was the last time you let something little ruin what should have been a beautiful experience? What do you let get in the way of our happiness?
  • On the flip side, when was the last time you celebrated something little? Life is full of moments of grace which deem to be celebrated! What will you celebrate today?
  • Do you give to others with expectation of something in return? Share an experience. What does God say about this?
  • How does your attitude affect your healing? How does your healing affect your attitude?
  • What can you learn about how to treat others from those who care for others for a living such as nurses and others service jobs such as firemen? What one quality do you possess already? What one quality do you want to nurture in yourself?
  • Who do you consider to be in your “cloud of witnesses”? How is your faith affected by them?
  • When has God recently poured grace into your life? How did you thank God for this gift?
  • Are there things you need to let go of so God can cure you?
  • Where do you go to be cleaned? How do you become clean? Why do you need to be cleaned?
  • What gifts do you have that have the power to heal another person?
  • How open are you to allow another person to heal you?
  • What do you think the 9 lepers felt and thought after being healed? Do you think they heard about the one who went back to say “thank you”? 
  • Why does God continue to heal people if they do not show gratitude? Do you follow God’s example? Do you always show gratitude for all God has given?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, have pity on me and let me do the same…

ALL:  by holding a door for a stranger.

Leader:  Lord, have pity on me and let me do the same…

ALL:  by leaving a generous tip.

Leader:  Lord, have pity on me and let me do the same…

ALL:  by calling or visiting a shut-in.

Leader:  Lord, have pity on me and let me do the same…

ALL:  by volunteering some time.

Leader:  Lord, have pity on me and let me do the same…

ALL:  by giving a gift for no reason.

Leader:  Let me have pity on others so

ALL:  Your grace can turn pity into joy!

Challenge for the Week:  Compare and contrast times when you have been weighed down with the chains of suffering and times when you feel rinsed clean.  Identify two or more situations in your life when you have experienced these feelings and spend time reflecting on the differences and the similarities of the experiences.  What did you feel physically, what did you think, what emotions did you feel, what was your behavior like, how did you treat yourself and others during these times?  Additionally, where was God during these times?  Did you experience a change in you afterwards?  Was it for the worse or for the better?  What are your emotions/feelings about these experiences now that you look back on them?  What will you do/can you do with this new knowledge of yourself?  Is there benefit not only for you but for others as well?  Decide on one action you will do (whether for yourself or for another) to live out what you have learned.

And/or:  How do you express your love?  The love language book speaks of 5 languages, service, affection, gifts, time, and adoration.  Consider showing love to others in each of these five ways.

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 2nd Readings

27th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Father

Sometimes when I look at the world around me,

I want to cry because of all the hurt.

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

There are days when I want to

          give up, surrender, hide away

                   because the road ahead is too hard.

Give me the strength to seek YOU…

          to have just a little faith

                   so I can make a difference! 

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

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

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

2Timothy 1:6-8, 13-14

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

Luke 17:5-10

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

General Questions for Journaling

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

Closing Prayer

Leader:  When I feel trampled

ALL:  you come to pick me up!

Leader:  When I am in need

ALL:  you find a way to satisfy!

Leader:  When I call out to you

ALL:  you listen to my plea!

Leader:  When I hold back

ALL:  you urge me to give more!

Leader:  When I surrender

ALL:  you give abundantly!

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

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

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

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

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

Sunday, September 25th Readings

26th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord

It is not wrong to desire nice things

          or to work for a better life.

Let me not get consumed by these things

          or allow them to be my focus.

Keep me humble so I might know

          it is YOU who give me what I need.

Help m remember to share what I have

          with all whom I meet for You are there!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Amos 6:1a, 4-7

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

1Timothy 6:11-16

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

Luke 16:19-31

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

General Questions for Journaling

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

Closing Prayer

Leader:  When I feel trampled

ALL:  you come to pick me up!

Leader:  When I am in need

ALL:  you find a way to satisfy!

Leader:  When I call out to you

ALL:  you listen to my plea!

Leader:  When I hold back

ALL:  you urge me to give more!

Leader:  When I surrender

ALL:  you give abundantly!

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

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

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 4th Readings

23rd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Jesus,

You must have immense patience

        to listen to me whine and complain

        about my suffering and pain. 

I am so naive.

You have heard every excuse but still I give them.

The promise of peace, forgiveness, and mercy

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

May Your WORD today help me to finally surrender!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Wisdom 9:13-18

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

Philemon 9-10, 12-17

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

Luke 14:25-33

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

General Questions for Journaling

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

Closing Prayer

Leader:  May I seek the path to YOU

ALL:  even when I cannot stand on my own;

Leader:  May I seek the path to YOU

ALL:  when the clouds cover my eyes;

Leader:  May I seek the path to YOU

ALL:  in the midst of the storm;

Leader:  May I seek the path to YOU

ALL:  on the best and worst of days;

Leader:  May I seek the path to YOU

ALL:  even when none can be found.

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

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!