Weekly Prayer

Sunday, February 21st Readings

First Sunday of Lent

Opening Prayer

Lord,

Empty me this Lent.

Take from me the things

which draw me from you.

Remove from my thoughts

all that causes me to sin.

I surrender myself to you.

I am YOURS!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Genesis 9:8-15

  • What does this scripture tell you about the things God loves?
  • What did the rainbow mean to Noah and his family? Does it have the same value to you today?
  • What is Noah’s role in making God’s promise complete? What is your role in it?

1Peter 3:18-22

  • During Lent we are to imagine ourselves living in the desert; without water. Have you ever felt parched or thirsty for Jesus, the living water?
  • The scripture says, “saved by water”. Reflect on the similarities of the flood of the First Reading and your own Baptism. Does this change your perspective or understanding of these events in anyway?
  • Look for the references to each person in the Holy Trinity in this scripture. What do these references reveal about each person and how can the characteristics help you through your experience of Lent?

Mark 1:12-15

  • What are the things which tempt you in the desert place? 
  • How have the angels of God ministered to you when you have been in the desert?
  • What does the scripture mean that this is a time of fulfillment?

General Questions for Journaling

  • What does the rainbow mean to you? How do you share this with others? 
  • What lesson can you learn from the story of Noah? What can you take away from the 40 days or of the dove and fig leave? How is this story relevant today?
  • What sign(s) of God’s love have been present in your life today?
  • How do you show signs of love to others? 
  • What confirms for you that God will keep his promise(s)? Be specific.
  • Can the suffering of Christ be a beacon of strength?
  • Do you believe God can be disobedient? Why or why not?
  • How have you been disobedient to God? How does this affect your relationship with Him? How does it affect your relationship with others?
  • How would you say your baptism has formed or changed you? Explain.
  • What can you do to get in touch with the waters of baptism washing you clean?
  • Where is God in the desert your experience?
  • Can you make time this Lent to spend uninterrupted time with God? What demons do you need to face?
  • Where does God want you to go to minister to others?
  • What does conversion mean to you? Why is conversion important? 
  • At Ash Wednesday services you will hear, “You are dust and to dust you shall return” and/or “Turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel” as ashes are placed on your forehead.  What do these words really mean and how can you take them to heart this Lent?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  A sign of covenant in a rainbow after a hard rain…

ALL:  YOU lead us out of the desert places, let our souls rejoice!

Leader:  A sign of courage in a slingshot facing a giant…

ALL:  YOU lead us out of the desert places, let our souls rejoice!

Leader:  A sign of hope in a star over Bethlehem…

ALL:  YOU lead us out of the desert places, let our souls rejoice!

Leader:  A sign of forgiveness on the cross at Calvary…

ALL:  YOU lead us out of the desert places, let our souls rejoice!

Challenge for the Week:  Lent is a time for us to make a promise to be a better person, a better friend, a better disciple.  God’s promise to love and protect us is symbolized with a rainbow and with a cross.  Spend time this week, as you enter into the Lenten season, thinking about a sign or symbol you can use to show God you are committed to fulfilling your Lenten promise of fasting, alms giving, and praying.  Find a sign or symbol which will help you stay focused on keeping your promise and to remind you God is always with you.

Sunday, February 14th Readings

6th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Compassionate God

YOU silence every cry, YOU wipe away every tear.

Each of us are bound, bruised and broken,

        but throughout history Lord,

everything YOU touch is made whole.

You are the healer and perfector of all creation.

Comfort us, Almighty Father. 

Hold us in your arms…forever!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Leviticus 13:1-2,44-46

  • When have you acted like Moses and Aaron and forced another to be exposed or excommunicated?
  • Are there people in the world today which you dub as unclean? What are your criteria for determining they are unclean?
  • How do you relate to those who are labeled as a leper?

1Corinthians 10:31-11:1

  • Do you give thanks to God each time you eat and drink? Consider how many hands your food passed through to get to you and provide you with the nourishment you need.
  • When do you give thanks to God? How many times on average do you give thanks to God?

Mark 1:40-45

  • Jesus reached out in pity, when have you felt Jesus reach out to you with pity? What was the situation? What was the outcome?
  • Would you be able to contain yourself if you were healed and not tell anyone or would you be like the leper who shared with everyone the good that was done?
  • How is the leper in the first reading treated differently or the same as the leper in the Gospel reading? What lesson do you take from this?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Do you know a leper? Is there someone in your workplace or community whom others have outcast or deemed “unclean”?
  • What if your sins showed on your skin like the sores of leprosy? 
  • Have you ever been outcast because of a physical ailment? 
  • How can you use your scars to bring healing to others?
  • Do you have a physical feature which you try to hide or cover? What is it?  How could God use it? How can you show God’s glory through this thing you try to hide?
  • Can the glory of God spread by touch like the disease of leprosy? Why or why not?
  • What does it mean to “do everything for the glory of God”? Share examples
  • Think back to yesterday and determine if you were aware of God’s presence all day. Were there gaps?
  • What times of the day or what activities are the most difficult for you to be aware of God’s presence in your life?
  • Do you have a hero? An idol? What characteristics draw you to them?
  • Who in your family do you take after? What traits do you have in common?
  • Did you “inherit” family traits which you are proud of or ones with which you struggle?
  • What traits do you have in common with Jesus? Do these come naturally or do you work at them?
  • Define “pity”. What is it, who has it and where does it come from?
  • Is there something or someone within your grasp that needs a healing touch? What can you do?
  • When have you experienced the healing touch of God in your life?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, let me see what you see!

ALL:  When I see illness,

Leader:  Lord, you see wellness.

ALL:  When I see something broken,

Leader: Lord, you see it whole.

ALL:  When I see poverty,

Leader:  Lord, you see richness.

ALL:  When I see sin,

Leader:  Lord, you see forgiveness.

ALL:  When I see death,

Leader:  Lord, you see life.

ALL:  Lord, let me see what you see!

Challenge for the Week:  How do you show God glory each day?  Is in your morning or evening prayer enough?  Is praying before your meals sufficient?  Consider all of the “everyday” things you do such as brushing your teeth, driving or doing the laundry.  Make a list of all of the “everyday” things you do and then think of a way to do that same task for the “GLORY OF GOD”.  Then do it!

Sunday, February 7th Readings

5th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord

At times the ways of this world consume my thoughts.

Help me so I may not become overwhelmed or weary

                rather, let me follow you;

for YOU alone can save.

Let me run to you when I am weak, restless and suffering.

I know your grace, mercy and love never ends;

        but I can sometimes forget;

let me cling to YOUR word

to remind me of your promise!!!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Job 7:1-4,6-7

  • Share a time in your life when you could relate to Job. What feeling or emotion do you most relate to? Do you still feel this way?
  • Compare Job’s description of his life on earth to how you describe your time on earth. How are the descriptions similar? How do they differ?
  • Where is God in this scripture?  Be specific.

1Corinthians 9:16-19,22-23

  • Saint Paul speaks of sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel. What are you willing to give up or sacrifice? How is this shown in your life?
  • Saint Paul says it is your obligation as a follower of Jesus to speak the Gospel. How do you fulfil this obligation?
  • What drives you to share the Gospel with others?  How does it relate to what St. Paul is telling the Corinthians in this scripture?

Mark 1:29-39

  • Imagine yourself as Jesus in this Gospel. What are you thinking? Feeling? How do you process all that happens? 
  • Jesus asked the people to not talk about the miracles which occurred. Would you be able to keep quiet about a miracle you witnessed? What do you think is the purpose of keeping quiet?
  • Jesus calls out many demons, describe some of the demons which possess people today.  Is there anything you can do to call out demons like Jesus?
  • Jesus goes off to pray after a long day of work.  What is the outcome of his time alone in prayer?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Do your pursue God or expect God to come to you? What does each scenario look like?
  • What causes you to be restless? Stress? Money? Family or Relationship issues?
  • How does stress or worry affect your way of thinking? Can it change our attitude about things? Why or why not?
  • Where does happiness come from? Be specific or share an example. 
  • How do you respond when you hear, “How can you believe in God if He allows such suffering in the world?”
  • What kind of hope can you offer someone who is in the midst of suffering? What are some things you can say or do?
  • Are you better at sympathy or empathy? What is the difference and how can you show both to others better?
  • When do you pray? How much effort do you put into it? Does it depend on what else you have planned for the day or whether you are too tired or not?
  • What could happen if you put as much effort into Mass (going to church) as you do when you attend your child’s extra-curricular activity (basketball game or dance recital) or as you do attending a concert or professional sporting event?
  • Define weakness. Do you believe it is a positive or negative trait? Explain.
  • What motivates you each day to get out of bed? Be specific.
  • Do you have desires in life? Do you have a plan for those desires to be met? How do your desires match up with what God desires for you?
  • Is there something you need Jesus to heal? Write down what you are in need of healing and place it in your bible. Let Jesus begin to heal you!

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, may I speak your name

ALL:  and feel your presence!

Leader:  May I speak your name

ALL:  and hear your voice!

Leader: May I speak your name

ALL:  and be healed of my hurt!

Leader:  May I speak your name

ALL:  and be empowered to do your will!

Leader:  May I speak your name

ALL:  and be filled with grace and mercy!

Leader:  May I speak your name

ALL:  and KNOW that I am loved!

Challenge for the Week:  Put yourself in the Gospel as Jesus.  Write down what you think Jesus prayed when he went away.  What do you imagine was the conversation between Jesus and God?  Spend time this week having this same conversation with God.  Remember to take time to listen to God’s response and consider how you may move forward with the mission which God has entrusted you with in your life.

Sunday, January 31st Readings

4th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

My Lord

How do I let go of anxiety

        so I might speak with authority?

Let me shed my insecurity

        so I might walk with confidence!

Teach me ways to stand strong

        so I show conviction in my beliefs!

Allow me to hold fast to YOU,

        as I find your words in my voice! 

Journal/Reflection Questions

Deuteronomy 18:15-20

  • Read the scripture as though you are Moses.  Does it change the meaning or message? What thoughts or feelings well up in you when you do this?
  • Does this scripture encourage you to speak God’s Word or cause you to be afraid to speak God’s Word? 

1Corinthians 7:32-35

  • Name the distractions in your life which cause you to not be as close to God/Jesus/Holy Spirit as you desire. Consider what you can do to lessen the distractions that keep you from this relationship.
  • How does being married or single distract you from God? 
  • How does being married or single bring you closer to God?

Mark 1:21-28

  • The people in the temple where amazed by Jesus’ action. What causes you to be amazed by God? 
  • Jesus was teaching with authority. What are you comfortable speaking about with authority?
  • How can you, like Jesus, speak truth to draw out the demons in a situation or in a relationship?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Do believe God anxiously waits for you to wake up each day to watch you unfold what is laid out on your path?
  • Identify the characteristics of a prophet of God. Do you have some of them?
  • Do you believe there are prophets who exist today? Who are they and are they guides for you?
  • Are there people in your life which you know to speak only truth?
  • Can you identify people whom you believe are or where prophets of their time? Who are people who have created a great uproar in their community or in the world? For what purpose?
  • As a baptized person, you are a prophet…how can you live more like the prophet you are?
  • What worries you about the world today? Write down at least 5 things and pray each day for the things that worry you.
  • Have you ever experienced so much worry that it became a dark cloud over you? How were you able to overcome?
  • Have you ever rebuked something? Why? Was it for selfish reasons or for God?
  • Do you have something “unclean” within you which you need to ask Jesus to call out?
  • Where do you see “unclean” situations? Consider globally, nationally, locally and individually and listen to God respond to your concern.
  • Who in your life do you trust explicitly? Is anyone who is in authority whom you trust? How do you know when someone is being authentic?
  • Has a new thought, process, or idea ever challenged you to change your ways? 

Closing Prayer

Leader:  YOU bring us out of darkness;

ALL:  WE ARE FREE!

Leader:  YOU lead us out of the desert;

ALL:  WE ARE FREE!

Leader:  YOU call us out of our selfishness;

ALL:  WE ARE FREE!

Leader:  YOU free us from our sins;

ALL:  WE ARE FREE!

Leader:  Lord, with YOU

ALL:  WE ARE FREE!

Challenge for the Week:  What do you call God?  Make a list of all of the names that can be used to describe all three persons of the Trinity, write them down.  Then take the list you made and cut the names out individually and place in a bowl, dish or cup.  Draw from this list a different name each day and use that name in your prayers that entire day.  Spend time throughout the day reflecting on the name and what it means to you, how it describes God and what it reveals about God’s nature.  Start now, or make plans for this to be included in your Lenten prayer practice. 

Sunday, January 24th Readings

3rd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

God of all,

There is no where I can go

        that will take me away from You.

No mountain is too high,

        No ocean is too deep;

                You are always there!

Let my heart and mind know

        I cannot run away from You.

Your will, Lord, is always done!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Jonah 3:1-5, 10

  • Share a time when you were like Jonah and didn’t want to do what God was asking you to do. What was the situation? What was the outcome?
  • What message did Jonah bring to Nineveh? How does this same message ring true in your life right now?
  • What truths about God are revealed through this scripture?
  • What significance does the three days have to this story? Where else in scripture does God promise change in three days?

1Corinthians 7:29-31

  • Are there times when you act as though you are not a child of God? 
  • What does God want from you right now?  Is it the same or different from what he wanted from you a year ago? 5? 10?
  • What does the scripture tell you about what God values?

Mark 1:14-20

  • What is your idea or definition of the “time of fulfillment”? Describe.
  • How can you live like a disciple called to be a “fisher of men”? What can you do to “catch people” for God?
  • Jesus found them “mending their nets.” What requires mending in your life right now? Does God find you doing the mending or are you waiting for someone else to fix it?

General Questions for Journaling

  • How has your view of the world changed over the past 5, 10, 15, 20 years? Do you still value the same things? Do the same things still bring you joy and make you happy?
  • Reflect on the past week; are any of your actions in need of repentance? How would God answer the same question about you?
  • Is there anything you must repent to have a stronger relationship with God? Are there things you should repent to heal or strengthen a relationship with a friend or family member? 
  • Do you believe there is a recipe for happiness which could be true for all people? What would it look like?
  • Do you act as if you believe God loves you despite your shortfalls? If God can love you, what can you do to show love to yourself?
  • What were the credentials needed to be one of Jesus’ disciples? Are they still the same today?
  • How do you act when given a deadline? Does it increase productivity?  Does it cause stress? What about your attention/focus changes?
  • How have you been called to change? Where does the call come from?
  • What benefit comes from a threat? Are there times when they are effective? Why or why not?
  • Are there things you hold onto? What value do they have to you? What value does the world give them? What value does God give them?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, when you call…

ALL:  your words engulf me!

Leader:  Lord, when you call…

ALL:  my heart is awakened!

Leader:  Lord, when you call…

ALL:  I turn to listen!

Leader:  Lord, when you call…

ALL:  my soul rejoices!

Leader:  Lord, when you call…

ALL:  I hear nothing else!

Leader:  Lord, when you call…

ALL:  your servant is ready!

Challenge for the Week:  The word present has a couple of very different meanings.  One present means “right now” and another is “a gift” but what if to God they really mean the same thing???  Consider the present moment in time as a gift from God.  How do you use it?  What value do you give it?  Unfortunately, many people spend much of their time thinking about the past and planning for the future.  They don’t always give the present, the value of time which it deserves.  This doesn’t only apply to the time you spend alone, with your own thoughts but it also affects the time you spend with friends, family and others whom deserve your uninterrupted attention.  Are you present with them?  What can you do to become more present, in the moment?  What changes can you make to allow you to be more present minded…what a true present that would be! 

January 1st Readings

Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God

Opening Prayer

God of heaven and earth

How must Mary have felt going through all of these trials?

What did she think about journeying away from home?

Was she sad because he mother wasn’t with her?

Did she struggle with believing what the Angel said?

How did others treat her when they saw she was pregnant?

Help me to connect with Mary so I might learn how to let my faith overcome my obstacles!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Numbers 6:22-27

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

Galatians 4:4-7

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

Luke 2:16-21

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

General Questions for Journaling

  • Where do you see blessing? Is there anything you can do to contribute?
  • Make a top ten list of blessings with the date on it and put it in your bible.
  • Do you feel uncomfortable receiving compliments? Why or why not? What was the last compliment you received?
  • Do you feel uncomfortable giving compliments? Why or why not? Who was the last person you complimented? What was their response to the compliment?
  • Have you ever tried to hide from God? Do you think God hides from you? Explain – Give an example.
  • Would you define yourself as a slave? If so, what are you a slave to? If not, consider how you spend your time and money to be sure your words and actions are in line.
  • What do you treasure? What makes it so special?
  • When have you been amazed? Was it recently or a long time ago? 
  • How do you describe the feeling of being amazed? 
  • What do you describe as being amazing? What makes it so?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, when we feel unworthy…

ALL:  bless us with the Spirit of Grace!

Leader:  Lord, when we are in despair…

ALL:  bless us with the Spirit of Hope!

Leader:  Lord, when we feel neglected…

ALL:  bless us with the Spirit of Love!

Leader:  Lord, when we feel incomplete…

ALL:  bless us with the Spirit of Wholeness!

Leader:  Lord, when we are full of worry…

ALL:  Bless us with the Spirit of Peace!

Challenge for the Week:  Take time to reflect on the past year.  There have been good things and bad things happen; how have these things affected you?  What do you have to look forward to in the New Year?  Are there things which you are dreading to face?  What have you learned this year that can help you overcome any obstacles in the coming year?  Are you making resolutions half-heartedly for the sake of “tradition” or are you spending time to make a change for good?  Spend time in reflection on the scripture readings of the birth of Jesus, focusing on each of the people in the story from the Innkeeper to Joseph to the Angels to Mary to the Shepherds, each person has a message for you…what is it and how can it help you make resolutions for 2021?

Sunday, January 3rd Readings

Epiphany of the Lord

Opening Prayer

Jesus,

Like the sun, let me rise to bring light!

Like a baby, let me be born to a new life!

Awaken me from my slumber,

so I can shine like a star and lead others to YOU!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Isaiah 60 :1-6

  • Are you able to see God’s Glory even through the dark times of your life? Share an example.
  • Can you see God working in your life right now or only when you look back do see God at work?
  • What do you see when you look out into the future?

Ephesians 3:2-3a, 5-6

  • What is the “commission” God has called you to? How are you living it out? What can you do to better complete the mission you are called to?
  • How can you treat others as “co-heirs” of the promises of Christ?
  • What is Saint Paul trying to remind you of in this reading?

Matthew 2:1-12

  • What caused the magi to drop everything and travel from foreign lands? What is important enough for you to stop everything and travel a great distance? 
  • What lesson(s) can you learn from the magi? What do they receive in return for the gifts they bring?
  • What can you learn about Jesus and the entire Holy Family from their choices and actions in this scripture?
  • Spend time role playing. Imagine yourself as each of the characters in the Gospel reading. What are you thinking, feeling? What motivates you? 

General Questions for Journaling

  • What gifts do you see in the world today? 
  • Are there places on earth which you are drawn to go? What is there which you want to experience?
  • What do you give back to God? Do you feel obligated to give? Explain.
  • What has God revealed to you in the past year?  Month?  24 hours?
  • Define the word, diligent. How can you search diligently for God this year?
  • Would you describe yourself as a “star” which shines light onto others? How does the light of Christ shine through you to draw people to Christ? Share an example.
  • Name some of the people you are drawn to. What draws you to them? What characteristics or qualities make them appealing?
  • Who are people in this world who are worth following? What makes them worth following? Are there people whom you follow who are not worth following? How can you tell the difference?
  • Reflect on the shape of the star. Describe how it is important to you and your beliefs; how is it a symbol of your faith?
  • Would you say you are the “star” of your own life or do you let others take the lead? How does God appear in your life story? Do you allow God to shine through you or are you eclipsed by God?
  • What are you willing to give up for a deeper relationship with God?
  • Are there people or situations which you hide from? What message do you think Jesus would like to reveal to you about what you should do?

Closing Prayer – (music lyrics to song “Rise Up” by Andra Day)

Leader:  When the silence isn’t quiet

ALL:  And it feels like it’s getting hard to breathe

Leader:  And I know you feel like dying

ALL:  But I promise we’ll take the world to its feet

Leader:  And move mountains

ALL:  I’ll rise like the day

Leader:  I’ll rise unafraid

ALL:  I’ll rise up

Leader:  And I’ll do it a thousand times again

ALL:  And I’ll rise up

Leader:  High like the waves

ALL:  I’ll rise up…for YOU!

Challenge for the Week:  Reflect on the past couple of months since the beginning of the new liturgical year (or since around Thanksgiving) and make a list of the gifts which you have received…NOT the tangible ones.  The holiday season can open up new insights, new relationships and shine light on situations in relationships.  Spend time thinking about the gifts opened to you, these can range from very personal to global depending on how much time you want to spend and how deep you want to go.  However, giving time to these special moments can bring new insight and reflect the true value of the gifts which you might have been too busy to accept!

Sunday, December 27th Readings-Sirach

Feast of the Holy Family

(Sirach 3:2-6,12-14/Colossians 3:12-21/Luke 2:22-40)

Opening Prayer

Rejoice in the Lord, Rejoice!

Give thanks to God in all things!

His wondrous deeds never cease!

Sing shouts of JOY throughout the earth!

God’s love reigns forever!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Sirach 3:2-6, 12-14

  • What does this scripture say about the love of a mother and a father? 
  • Take time to imagine what this scripture looks like and draw a picture to express your interpretation of it.

Colossians 3:12-21

  • Saint Paul says to “let the peace of God control your heart”.  This is a beautiful image but how is this possible?  How can you learn to allow God’s peace into your heart?
  • Just as you would put on your Sunday best, Saint Paul says to “put on…heartfelt compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness, and patience”.  How can you wear these?  Is there a greater need for you to wear some of these with specific people?  Write a prayer to God asking Him to grow these gifts in you this Christmas.

Luke 2:22, 39-40 (full reading Luke 2:22-40)

  • Even as a baby, Jesus was filled with the Holy Spirit.  Describe how you feel when you see and hold a newborn baby.
  • List 3-5 qualities of Joseph.  List 3-5 qualities of Mary.  Do you share any of these qualities?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Reflect on your relationship with your father and mother, each individually.  Consider the ways in which they showed love to you.
  • Reflect on your role as a mother or father.  What qualities of God do you express to your children?
  • What season are you in with your parents or as a parent?  What are some of the lessons God might want to teach through these different seasons?
  • What is different about the Christmas holiday season compared to other holidays?
  • Make a list of all of the holiday decorations, ie. lights, wreath and reflect on how each item is a reminder of Jesus.
  • What is so appealing about Christmas music?  Is it the words of the songs?  The feelings you feel?  The memories?  How can you make that peaceful, joyful feeling last longer than the Christmas season?
  • What traditions do you still keep Holy in your life which have been passed on from previous generations?
  • Imagine the kind of parents Mary and Joseph were.  Did Jesus ever need to be disciplined?  Do you think Mary scolded Jesus?  Consider what their everyday life looked like.  Write down your thoughts.

Closing Prayer – (inspired by Psalm 105)

Leader:  A holy promise for all ages…

ALL:  God’s covenant is faithful;

Leader:  Faithful through the fire and through the rain…

ALL:  God’s covenant is true;

Leader:  True as the morning sun and the stars at night…

ALL:  God’s covenant is strong;

Leader:  Strong and precious like silver and gold…

ALL:  God’s covenant is unbroken;

Leader:  Unbroken for generations, binding in everlasting love…

ALL:  God’s covenant is forever!

Challenge for the Week:  A thing called the Baltimore Catechism was the old way of teaching the Catholic faith for everyone to know the “rules”.  Teaching the faith was about memorization instead of being an example…more about knowing the right answer than living it out.  There may or may not have been a person who modelled for you a strong faith but somehow you “caught” the faith otherwise you would not be reading this right now.  Matthew Kelly, a Catholic evangelist believes each faith-filled family requires a “prayer warrior”; someone who is a good model of a faithful person.  There are Christians who talk the talk but don’t walk the walk; it’s like memorizing the Baltimore Catechism but not putting what you know into action.  Your family and friends may not attend Sunday Services each week or spend time in prayer each day but when they think of you do they think of you as someone who is strong in their faith like Abraham?  Someone who is not wavered in what they believe and lives a life of virtue, committed to God and the promise of His love?  Instead of trying to “teach” the faith, model it for others by praying that God will make you a better example of a disciple so others can “catch” the faith from YOU!

Sunday, November 15th Readings

33rd Sunday Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord, I humbly pray…

May I boldly give my life in service to others

        so your love will be shown through my actions.

May I meet the needs of others with love and compassion

        as you have modeled for me through your actions.

May I not be afraid of the gifts you have given me

        and be proud to share them unselfishly with others.

AMEN!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Proverbs 31:10-13, 19-20, 30-31

  • What does this scripture say makes a one a worthy wife?  It is tasks she completes or her attitude or a combination of both?  Explain.
  • The scripture describes a worthy wife.  What does she receive in return for her investment?  Do you think it is a good investment?

1Thessalonians 5:1-6

  • What emotions are conjured up within you when you hear this scripture?
  • What is there to fear?  Death?  Darkness?  What does this scripture passage say you should fear?  Do you agree or disagree?  Explain.

Matthew 25:14-30

  • Imagine yourself in this scripture.  Where do you see yourself?  As the landowner?  One of the servants?  What examples can you give from your life experience to support your answer?
  • What does it mean for God to give you great responsibility?  Share an example of someone who has embraced the responsibility.  Share an example of someone who fears the responsibility.

General Questions for Journaling

  • When men and women look for someone to marry, what qualities do they look for?  Are they different for each individual person?  Are they different for men and women?  Explain.
  • Is there a recipe for a healthy marriage?  If so, has the recipe changed over the years or has it remained the same?  Explain.
  • What does it look like to ‘fear the Lord’?  How is it a gift of the Holy Spirit?
  • List ways a person can show ‘fear of the Lord’ and ‘wonder and awe’ of God.  How can you weave these into your daily routine?
  • What are some of the things in life which give false hope or false security?  Are they easy or difficult to identify?  Explain.
  • Are you fearful God will come before you are ready?  What will make you ready?  Do you think you will ever be ready?
  • How does God’s goodness take you by surprise?  Share a specific experience when God took you by surprise.
  • Describe the behaviors which indicate a person lives in the light VS one who lives in darkness.  What about someone who lives in the shadows?  Is the shadow light or dark?
  • Do you think you have talents which are buried?  If yes, what keeps you from digging them up?  If no, are you using the talents you have to their full potential?
  • What are some reasons a person might burry their talents?  Do you identify with any of them?  Why or why not?
  • Do you have talents you no longer use?  Do you think you can run out of talents?  Do you think there are talents that lose their usefulness?
  • Where have you scattered seeds of faith?  Who gave the seeds to you?
  • Identify a time in your life when it was necessary to take a risk.  What was the outcome?  Did you grow in faith because of the risk?  Did you grow in confidence?  Did you grow in love?  Did you grow trust?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  When the love you have for me is questioned…

ALL:  Lord, I am listening with all my heart!

Leader:  When the threat of bad weather is on the horizon…

ALL:  Lord, I am listening with all my senses!

Leader:  When my what I believe to be truth is challenged…

ALL:  Lord, I am listening with my entire mind!

Leader:  When stress and anxiety try to consume me…

ALL:  Lord, I am listening with my whole body!

Leader:  When temptation draws near…

ALL:  Lord, I am listening with all of my will!

Leader:  When you wrap me in grace and mercy…

ALL:  Lord, I am listening with all of my soul!

Challenge for the Week:  Take a step back and look at life, anyone’s life.  Each life begins with birth and ends with death.  Lisa Nichols an inspirational speaker, life coach and author says she wants to be remembered for the DASH.  You know when you look at a tombstone, you see the year the person was born and the year they died, but their life was lived within the DASH.  Reflect this week on what you want your DASH to say about the life you have lived.  Then evaluate if you are living that life.  Don’t wait until it’s too late the make the changes you wish to make or to forgive or seek forgiveness.  God only knows the numbers on either side of your DASH.

Sunday, November 8th Readings

32nd Sunday Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord

Prepare the way.

Make me ready.

Lead my steps.

Open the gate.

Welcome me home.

AMEN!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Wisdom 6 :12-16

  • What does Wisdom have waiting for you?
  • Do you seek Wisdom?  Is Wisdom easy or difficult to find?  Explain.

1Thessalonians 4:13-18

  • Does ‘fallen asleep’ mean those who have died?  Could it also mean those who have ‘fallen asleep’ in faith?  Describe someone who has ‘fallen asleep’ in their faith.
  • How does this reading impact your vision of death?  Of heaven?

Matthew 25:1-13

  • Would you say you are ready to open the door to God?  Why or why not?
  • What kinds of things keep you from lighting your lamp?  Keep you from being delayed?  Keep you from going out?  Keep you from being ready for the feast?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Do you look for God in all things?
  • Are there places you don’t look for God?  Why or why not?
  • Are there places where you don’t see God at all?  Explain.
  • When have you felt there was something waiting ahead of you?
  • How does wisdom differ from knowledge or understanding?  Explain.
  • If you knew when you would die, how would that affect how you live your life?  What would you do differently?
  • How would knowing when others will die change your relationships?  Be specific.
  • Are there things of which you are unaware?  Are you unaware because you honestly don’t know or because you are disinterested?
  • Do you think there is a connection between awareness and wisdom?  Explain.
  • How has awareness of God affected your decisions?  Share an example.
  • When have you grown impatient, waiting for God in your life?  Share an example.
  • Is there a difference between knowing of Jesus and knowing Jesus?  Explain.

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, let me find you in all things…

ALL:  you are the stars that shine!

Leader:  Lord, let me find you in all things…

ALL:  you are the baby crying!

Leader:  Lord, let me find you in all things…

ALL:  you are the changing seasons!

Leader:  Lord, let me find you in all things…

ALL:  you are an act of kindness!

Leader:  Lord, let me find you in all things…

ALL:  you are a banquet feast!

Leader:  Lord, let me find you in all things…

ALL:  you are the path of life!

Challenge for the Week:  Stay awake!  Be ready!  We do not know the day, nor the hour of when Jesus will come.  This warning has been passed on for centuries.  But what does it mean?  Spend time this week contemplating this question.  Write down at least 10 things that you believe you must do or have so you are ready when Jesus returns.

AND/OR

On a scale from 1-10, how would you rate your awareness of God’s presence in your life each day?  Reflect on the past 24 hours and identify all of the times when you saw or felt or called on God’s presence.  Were there times when you turned your back on God or hid your face from him?  Were there moments where you kept God in the closet or on a shelf, then let him back in when you were ready?  What are those things you think you are keeping from God?  Do they enhance your life and make it better?  How does being aware of God’s presence affect your attitude and your decisions?  Jesus is the light of the world, let him bring light into yours!