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.

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!

Sunday, September 25th Readings

26th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord

It is not wrong to desire nice things

or to work for a better life.

Let me not get consumed by these things

or allow them to be my focus.

Keep me humble so I might know

it is YOU who give me what I need.

Help m remember to share what I have

with all whom I meet for You are there!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Amos 6:1a, 4-7

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

1Timothy 6:11-16

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

Luke 16:19-31

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

General Questions for Journaling

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

Closing Prayer

Leader: When I feel trampled

ALL: you come to pick me up!

Leader: When I am in need

ALL: you find a way to satisfy!

Leader: When I call out to you

ALL: you listen to my plea!

Leader: When I hold back

ALL: you urge me to give more!

Leader: When I surrender

ALL: you give abundantly!

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

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

Sunday, September 11th Readings

24th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord of immense patience

How can I learn from you?

Where can I go to find patience?

Is it within my reach?

What can I do to cultivate more?

Why can’t I seem to wait?

Be with me Lord,

I cannot do it on my own!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Exodus 32: 7-11, 13-14

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

1 Timothy 1:12-17

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

Luke 15: 1-32

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

General Questions for Journaling

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

Closing Prayer

Leader: Thank you Lord

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

Leader: Thank you Lord

ALL: For you never leave me, a sinner!

Leader: Thank you Lord

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

Leader: Thank you Lord

ALL: For you never for me, a sinner!

Leader: Thank you Lord

ALL: For you never forsake me, a sinner!

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

Sunday, September 4th Readings

23rd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Jesus,

You must have immense patience

to listen to me whine and complain

about my suffering and pain.

I am so naive.

You have heard every excuse but still I give them.

The promise of peace, forgiveness, and mercy

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

May Your WORD today help me to finally surrender!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Wisdom 9:13-18

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

Philemon 9-10, 12-17

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

Luke 14:25-33

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

General Questions for Journaling

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

Closing Prayer

Leader: May I seek the path to YOU

ALL: even when I cannot stand on my own;

Leader: May I seek the path to YOU

ALL: when the clouds cover my eyes;

Leader: May I seek the path to YOU

ALL: in the midst of the storm;

Leader: May I seek the path to YOU

ALL: on the best and worst of days;

Leader: May I seek the path to YOU

ALL: even when none can be found.

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

Bountiful Rain

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sunday, August 28th Readings

22nd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord,

YOU call out to me, and I come near.

YOU give me a heart of flesh to love.

YOU give me hands to reach out to help.

YOU give me the will to choose to follow.

May I never lose sight of ALL YOU give,

and always be grateful YOU are there

to give me what I need. AMEN!

Journal/Reflection Questions

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

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

Hebrews 12:18-19, 22-24a

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

Luke 14:1, 7-14

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

General Questions for Journaling

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

Closing Prayer – inspired by Colossians 3:12

Leader: Chosen by God…

ALL: to be compassionate!

Leader: Chosen by God…

ALL: to be kind!

Leader: Chosen by God…

ALL: to be humble!

Leader: Chosen by God…

ALL: to be gentle!

Leader: Chosen by God…

ALL: to be patient!

Leader: Chosen by God…

ALL: to be LOVED!

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

He Disciplines

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

___________________________________________________________________________________

Sunday, August 21st Readings

21st Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord,

YOU call out to me, and I come near.

YOU give me a heart of flesh to love.

YOU give me hands to reach out to help.

YOU give me the will to choose to follow.

May I never lose sight of ALL YOU give,

and always be grateful YOU are there

to give me what I need. AMEN!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 66:18-21

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

Hebrews 12:5-7, 11-13

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

Luke 13:22-30

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

General Questions for Journaling

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

Closing Prayer

Leader: Lord, strengthen my relationship

ALL: in the prayers I pray.

Leader: Lord, strengthen my understanding

ALL: through the scriptures.

Leader: Lord, strengthen my focus

ALL: as I follow the path.

Leader: Lord, strengthen my witness

ALL: as I speak truth.

Leader: Lord, strengthen my commitment

ALL: in acts of justice and mercy.

Leader: Lord, strengthen me…

ALL: make me your disciple!

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

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weeklyscripturejournal

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

prayers

Sunday, October 16th Readings

Sunday, October 9th Readings

Sunday, October 2nd Readings

Sunday, September 25th Readings

Sunday, September 11th Readings

Sunday, September 4th Readings

Bountiful Rain

Sunday, August 28th Readings

He Disciplines

Sunday, August 21st Readings