Weekly Scripture

Sunday, December 12th Readings

Third Sunday of Advent

Opening Prayer

O my people,

Sing with joy!

Sound the trumpets!

Awake!

Bring peace!

Shout out;

the Savior is coming!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Zephaniah 3:14-18a

  • What keeps you from jumping for joy as you hear this scripture?
  • Draw a picture of what you see happening in this scripture. Who is there?  What colors would you use to paint the scene?
  • The scripture says, God will rejoice over you. How do you think He rejoices?

Philippians 4: 4-7

  • How do you make your petitions known to God? Do you only focus on what you want/need? How do you make the community prayers known?
  • What keeps you from rejoicing the Lord always? Identify three specific things.
  • What keeps you from showing kindness to all? Is it in your control to change this?

Luke 3:10-18

  • Who do you turn to seeking direction? Who do you ask, “what should I do”?
  • How big is your circle of influence (the people you ask for help determining God’s will in your life), who is included, are there people who should be included who are not, are there people whom you should reconsider?
  • Who are those who turn to you for guidance in answering the big questions about life, love and faith?

General Questions for Journaling

  • How do you celebrate God? Jesus? Holy Spirit? Do you celebrate them as one or have special ways of honoring each?
  • When was the last time you shared the “Good News” with another person in everyday conversation?
  • On a scale from 1-10 how comfortable are you sharing your faith with others?
  • How does God show you He is present?
  • Are there places where you feel more at ease to share the “Good News” of Jesus?
  • How does the church’s celebration of Advent/Christmas and Lent/Easter help open the door for you to share your faith?
  • How do you “cry out with joy or gladness”?
  • Do you think, “cry out with gladness” is an oxymoron like “jumbo shrimp”? Explain.
  • How much of your heart and mind would you say God consumes? Draw a picture to illustrate what consumes your heart and mind; be honest.
  • Are there places you will not go because you fear God is not there? Is there something you can do to overcome this fear?
  • How do you let go of anxiety and stress?
  • How often do you find yourself in a state of worry or overwhelmed with stress?  Do you think it is too much, just right or not enough?
  • Is generosity taught? How does a person learn to be generous?
  • Where is God calling you to show generosity today?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  When anxiety and fear overtake you…

ALL:  Be still the Lord is near.

Leader:When judgement and accusations fill you…

ALL:  Be still the Lord is near.

Leader:  When weariness and fatigue consume you…

ALL:  Be still the Lord is near.

Leader:  When you have no more to give…

 ALL:  Be still the Lord is near.

Leader:  He is waiting for you with open arms…

ALL:  Be still the Lord is near.

Challenge for the Week:  When the President of the United States enters a room; “Hail to the Chief” can be heard.  This week reflect on what song would play when God/Jesus/Holy Spirit enters the room.  What instruments would be playing, harps?  What does a “Choir of Angels” sound like?  Does it sound like a strong wind? Gentle breeze?  The sound of the waves crashing or lapping on the shore?  A trickling stream?  There are many possibilities but spend time exploring each of them until you find the right combination of sounds that expresses how you feel when you encounter God/Jesus/Holy Spirit. 

Then, perhaps even more challenging, determine YOUR song.  What would you have play as you enter into a room?  What instruments would be used?  What is the tune?  Is it something familiar or original? Who would sing it?  And if there are words, what do they say?

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

Sunday, December 5th Readings

Second Sunday of Advent

Opening Prayer

Jesus

When my day is filled with activity;

may I remember not to get wrapped up in the busyness.

When I face a long list of tasks;

may I not become consumed in the hustle and bustle.

Instead, help me to take time to spend a quiet moment with you

and watch for you in hopeful anticipation!

AMEN

Journal/Reflection Questions

Baruch 5 :1-9

  • What do you put on yourself each day like a robe? What do you allow others to put on you?
  • What does God robe you with? Do you feel comfortable with what God puts on you? Why or why not?
  • How is what God puts on you different or similar to what you or others put on you? Explain.

Philippians 1:4-6, 8-11

  • How can you “partner” with the Gospel? What does that look like?
  • Where do you see God’s Glory? Where do you feel it? Can you hear it or taste it or smell it?
  • Can you name at least five good works God began in you? Can you list ten?

Luke 3:1-6

  • How is your life proclaiming the Gospel?
  • How does the Word of God come from you?
  • Describe three ways you relate to the words from the Prophet Isaiah.
  • How does this scripture speak of your life’s journey?

General Questions for Journaling

  • How does the awareness of God’s presence affect your decisions? How often do you allow God to affect your decisions?
  • When you make decisions; do you seek God’s perspective?
  • How does God lead you to find joy? How often do you search for it?
  • Do you pray for joy? Write a prayer for joy.
  • How does God show affection? Do you have to ask for it or does God show it freely? Describe the last time you felt loved by God.
  • What is God a witness to in your life? How are you a witness to God?
  • In a 24-hour period, on average, how often are you a witness to God?
  • Do you believe God can “make paths straight” and “move mountains” and “part the waters” and “level the valleys”? Why or why not?  Share an example of time when you were witness to this happening.
  • Is there a time when you felt so overwhelmed you cried out to God and your faith lead you through?
  • Make a list of images of God’s power and draw a picture of one.
  • Where do you see the hope of Christ in the world today? Where do you see hope in your community? In your family?
  • What is the purpose of having hope? What value do you put on it?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Awaken the gifts;

ALL:  the gifts we have before us!

Leader:  Enliven the joy;

ALL:  the joy within each soul!

Leader:  Ignite the hope;

ALL:  the hope around us!

Leader: Revive the peace;

ALL:  the peace deep within!

Leader:  Kindle the love;

ALL:  the love which brings us together!

Challenge for the Week:  Consider how God planted in you all the gifts you will ever need to bring Him glory and share His love with others.  How are you sharing these gifts?  Do you believe all your gifts have been opened?  Perhaps there are a few gifts left under the tree (within you) unopened; full of new and unimaginable opportunities and experiences.  As you go about your week, ponder the gifts you have been given which help you bring Glory to God and share His love.  Force yourself to go the extra step and dream about gifts you would need to possess so you can bring more attention to God.  What does that look like?  Are those gifts already opened in your life and you have discarded them or left them in the box?  Awaken to the possibilities on your journey.  God always gives what you need and He gives the BEST gifts!

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

Sunday, November 28th Readings

First Sunday of Advent

Opening Prayer

Father

You created me to love,

so I can give Your love.

You showed me how to love,

So I can spread Your love.

Please continue to teach me, mold me, and open me

until Your love is spread throughout the world!

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

Jeremiah 33 :14-16

  • How do the promises of Christ live out/on in your life?
  • What has God risen up in your life? How do you show gratitude for it?

1 Thessalonians 3:12-4:2

  • How can you strengthen your heart? What exercises are needed to build up your heart?
  • Do you know the instructions God has given to you?  If so, what are they?  If not, what can you do to learn what instructions God has for you?

Luke 21:25-28, 34-36

  • How do you see/imagine Jesus coming?
  • How does Jesus return each day of your life?

General Questions for Journaling

  • What is the difference between full of mercy and full of grace?
  • How does God bring justice to the world?
  • Where does your security come from?
  • When do you feel the safest?
  • What can you rely on? What is consistent in your life?
  • How has your life been blessed because of your faith in God?
  • Do you believe in God because you fear Him? Why or why not?
  • What do you need to do to be more holy?
  • Identify a synonym for holy?
  • What good has come from a recent struggle you experienced?
  • Are there things which cause your stress? What is it about these things that make you anxious?
  • Is there something you are anticipating right now?
  • Write a prayer asking God for strength.

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Find me seeking You in my daily schedule…

ALL:  I am ready!

Leader:  Find me seeking You in the highs and lows…

ALL:  I am ready!

Leader:  Find me seeking You in the decisions I make…

ALL:  I am ready!

Leader: Find me seeking You in the joys and sorrows…

ALL:  I am ready!

Leader:  Find me seeking You every minute of the day…

ALL:  I am ready!

Challenge for the Week:  The holiday season brings added expectations.  It’s a time when schedules fill up with extra activities with the kids at school, planning and attending gatherings of family and friends and as a Christian, you have the extra stress of trying to keep Jesus as the reason for the season.  It appears the scriptures this week with their warning about not getting drowsy is extremely timely!  The time between Thanksgiving and Christmas is ideally supposed to be spent reflecting on the people and things for which you are grateful and sharing in memorable moments giving gifts everyone loves.  In an attempt for people to meet this ideal season, many people can find themselves overwhelmed and stressed out.  The Catholic Church provides a solution, Advent.  Instead of looking at the long road ahead full of crowded shopping centers and depleting bank accounts, embrace the gift of the Advent Season.  When the world is screaming Christmas, look at the red everywhere as a clue to STOP.  And open yourself up to the colors of Advent, purple and pink, calling you to slow down and seek refuge from the chaos.  When your calendar is so filled with holiday expectations, you risk getting weary and becoming drowsy.  This is what the scripture warns you against.  Take advantage of the Advent Season to prepare yourself and your family for the coming of Jesus.  Look at your holiday calendar and determine what you MUST say YES to and then say NO to anything else that comes up along the way.  Be sure to put on your calendar time to participate in Advent activities such as gathering around the Advent wreath daily for prayer.  It’s a gift you will be glad you gave yourself and your family.

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

Sunday, November 21st Readings

Solemnity of Christ the King

Opening Prayer

Christ the King

Let me come to you in the morning;

at the beginning of my day,

so I can consciously take you with me.

Let me come to you in the daytime;

in the middle of the day,

so I can stay connected to you.

Let me come to you in the evening;

at the end of the day,

so I can review the day together.

Jesus, help me to be mindful of you throughout the day!

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

Daniel 7 :13-14

  • What does this scripture tell you about the majesty of God? How is this description similar or different than how you define the majesty of God?
  • How does God have dominion over you in your life? It is something that comes naturally or do you have to work to allow God to move, guide and direct you? Explain.

Revelations 1:5-8

  • Jesus is a faithful witness. What would you say Jesus is a faithful witness of?
  • Are you a faithful witness to Jesus? How? Be specific.
  • How does it make you feel being told in scripture that Jesus will come again for the sake of everyone? Identify what Jesus means by everyone.
  • How does this understanding affect your words and actions in the world right now? Is it reflected in the decisions you make and how you live your life? Share examples.

John 18:33b-37

  • Pilate is listening to the crowd and following the majority. When have you listened to the majority and followed the crowd?
  • What kept those who loved Jesus from standing up for him?
  • Share a time when you stood up for Jesus.

General Questions for Journaling

  • Describe the kingdom of God. Are these hopes of what you expect it to be or understanding from someplace else that this is what the kingdom of God really is?
  • How is God’s kingdom similar or different than the kingdoms of the old centuries? How is it similar or different from those who govern the countries of the world today?
  • When can you first remember thinking about Jesus?
  • What was the last “project” you started and finished? How long did it take? Were feelings of accomplishments associated with the completion? Did you experience any setbacks? Will you do it again?
  • Are there areas in your life which you are proud of? Would Jesus also be proud of those things?
  • How do you know when someone is lying to you? Is it subjective or objective?  What do you do about it?
  • Could you describe Jesus’ voice? Do you think it is the same all the time? Do you think Jesus’ voice sounds different to different people?
  • Does your home reflect your faith? Share an example.
  • How do the things you post (or like) on social media fall in line with what you say you believe in?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  The injustice that happens each day…

ALL:  You are called to see.

Leader:  The cries of those in need and hurting…

ALL:  You are called to listen.

Leader:  The forgotten, the lost and the forsaken…

ALL:  You are called to love.

Leader: The stranger and the neighbor…

ALL:  You are called to help.

Leader:  Broken but mended by the power of faith…

ALL:  You are called children of God.

Challenge for the Week:  Jesus was consistent in faith throughout his time on earth.  Stories of Jesus as a child reflect how he was faithful to his studies and loved being among the elders of the church to learn.  Jesus modeled for all how to live faithfully, by accepting everyone and teaching the faith through works of service to others.  Even up to death, Jesus stood strong in faith and wasn’t going to back down or blasphemy to save himself.  In the Catholic Church, a new liturgical year begins which means, as believers there is yet another opportunity to reflect, repent and renew our faithfulness.  No matter how dedicated or committed to faith a person is, one can always benefit from a self-evaluation of faithfulness to stay focused on the journey to the Kingdom of God!

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

Sunday, November 14th Readings

33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord

Why do I search in all the wrong places to find you?

When I look in the darkness,

You are not there.

When I look behind, above and below,

You are not there.

You are in all things at all times,

yet I struggle to find you!

Thank you for not turning away;

Thank you for your grace, love and mercy;

Thank you!  Thank you!  Thank you!

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

Daniel 12 :1-3

  • What qualities do you learn are important to have as a witness of Christ through this scripture? Do you possess any of them? If so, which ones? If not, what can you do to build up these qualities within?
  • Who are “stars” who shine brightly? Are there people in your life who let God’s light shine and worked toward justice? Can you name some people in history who have been examples of “stars”?
  • How might your life be different if you followed the stars?

Hebrews 10:11-14, 18

  • Why is sacrifice needed? What sacrifice(s) do you make for your relationship with God?
  • How does one become perfect in Christ? Is this even possible? Why or why not?
  • Consider, through the words of this scripture, the importance of the sacrifice of Mass. What is happening at Mass and do we understand the meaning as it is happening?

Mark 13:24-32

  • What is Jesus telling you about what you can take with you when you die? How does this change how you think of material things? How does this change how you might spend the rest of your life?
  • Does this scripture cause you fear or another emotion? What emotion do you think Jesus wants you to feel?

General Questions for Journaling

  • In the past week, where did you see God’s light shine? Who did it shine through?
  • Where do you turn for comfort when you are in distress? Is God there?
  • Would you consider yourself a leader or a follower? Why?
  • What was the last thing you took the lead on? Who was it for? What was the task? How did it turn out?
  • What kind of leader are you or would you be? Why?
  • How can you make your sins go away? What do you do to ensure you don’t ever sin again?
  • What does God do or can God do to help you defeat sin?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Though I am a sinner;

ALL:  You made one sacrifice for my sins.

Leader:  Though I are ignorant;

ALL:  You continue to teach me your ways.

Leader:  Though I often lose direction;

ALL:  You continue to guide me on the right path.

Leader:  Though I waste much;

ALL:  You continue to give me what we need.

Leader:  Though I continue to fall short;

ALL:  You continue to build me up.

ALL:  Thank you Lord, for your constant love!

Challenge for the Week:  Attend Mass.  It really doesn’t matter if you do it on the weekend or during the week, the outcome is the same…you have witnessed a living sacrifice.  What does this even mean?  Well, when you go to Mass, it shouldn’t be just out of obligation so you can get it checked off your “to do list” or because you get to see friends or enjoy coffee and donuts afterwards.  Nor should you attend Mass and not be an active participant.  Mass is the “shortened” version of what is actually called the “Holy Sacrifice of the Mass” where Catholics come together to remember the sacrifice Jesus made for all.  This act of love is monumental and deserves a response from each person who gathers to remember it.  Jesus died for everyone and in return believers should sacrifice something each time they take the Eucharist.  Those who receive the Eucharist, receives a piece of Jesus, this is how you become more like Him!  So, go and make a sacrifice this week.  Leave behind the grumpy, negative, judgmental part of you and let the joyful, positive and accepting light of Jesus shine through!

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

Sunday, November 7th Readings

32nd Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Father in heaven,

Each day I work hard to please you

but this is not what you ask of me.

You ask for me to love you with all my heart.

You ask me to find you in others.

and want me to share your love.

Love you and share your love…this is what you ask;

Help me to stay focused on the goals you have for me.

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

1 Kings 17:10-16

  • What does the widow do to receive the generosity of another?
  • Are there only a few people whom you would sacrifice the last of something for or would you sacrifice the same for a stranger/anybody?
  • What is God saying to you in this scripture about being ready to accept Him into your life?

Hebrews 9:24-28

  • What is the significance of one sacrifice?
  • How does one find salvation according to this scripture?
  • What is the core message you hear in this scripture? Each person will hear something differently according to their experience…share!

Mark 12:38-44

  • What is Jesus telling you about giving? Is He only talking about money to the church? Be specific.
  • What are the two types of people Jesus is referring to in this scripture? What characteristics are being highlighted as good and bad? Where would you rate yourself on the scale?
  • How are you like the widow? In what ways do you want to be more like the widow?

General Questions for Journaling

  • What do you have that never runs empty?
  • What do you have that limits you?
  • Is there anything you wouldn’t give away? What would it be and why?
  • Define generous spirit. Would you say you have a generous spirit? Why or why not?
  • Share a time when you recently did something for another person. Did they ask you to do it or did you do it because you saw a need.
  • What is the difference between doing something you are asked to do and doing something because you saw a need?
  • What is needed to create a habit of giving? Do you have these qualities?  Who do you know has them?
  • What good comes from helping others?
  • Are there always rewards for doing good things?
  • When you think of what God brings to your relationship and what you bring, do you think God is measuring like you do? Why or why not?
  • What do you think God is saying about what you bring to your relationship?
  • Is generosity about how much you give or how you give? What is the difference?
  • Make a list of the things God love most about you.
  • How do you define a “leap of faith”, share some examples.

Closing Prayer

Leader:  When I am held up at a red light…

ALL:  Help me make room for YOU!

Leader:  When I give up control of the remote…

ALL:  Help me make room for YOU!

Leader:  When I let someone else choose…

ALL:  Help me make room for YOU!

Leader: When I hold my tongue…

ALL:  Help me make room for YOU!

Leader: When I sacrifice time or money for another…

ALL:  Help me make room for YOU!

Challenge for the Week:  Jesus uses the widow woman to show how one gives from the heart, all they can possibly give.  This week, make a point to not just do the minimum needed or required of whatever task is in front of you.  Give a little more effort in preparing the meal for your family, take a bit more time enjoying the beauty of the colors of fall, and be more attentive when your spouse is telling you about the events of the day…whatever you have in front of you, give yourself completely.

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

Sunday, October 31st Readings

31st Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord

Teach me what it means to love.

Show me how to serve.

Give me the strength to do both!

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

Deuteronomy 6:2-6

  • What do you hear God saying in this scripture? How is your message different than others? How is it the same?
  • Share examples of where you see following God’s commandments are good.
  • Share examples of where you see following God’s commandments are bad.

Hebrews 7:23-28

  • What does this scripture teach you about the Eucharist? Is this an old or a new insight?
  • How does this scripture help you understand how sacrifice is good? Does it make you more or less willing to make a sacrifice for God? For others?
  • What is God calling you to sacrifice right now?

Mark 12:28b-34

  • How does Jesus determine or measure our nearness to the kingdom of God according to this scripture?
  • Does loving God come easy? Why or why not?
  • Describe God’s love. What words do you use? 
  • Do you love God the same way He loves you? Why or why not?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Does love have a capacity? Explain
  • How does God love vs how you love? Is it different? Is it the same?
  • Imagine your heart. Draw a picture of it and then write down the things that you carry in your heart. Is your heart big enough to carry all of those things and be able to love God too?
  • How does having God in your life make your life better?
  • Where do you see God’s presence? In your home? Your spouse? Your kids? Neighbors? Co-workers? Fellow parishioners? Be specific.
  • What does it mean to you when people pray for you? What does it mean for you to pray for others?
  • Do you believe those who have passed can provide you support, understanding and companionship? Why or why not?
  • How do you put God above others? Give an example.
  • What do you do to “work” on your relationship with God?
  • Shouldn’t love come easy?  What makes loving God or others or yourself difficult?
  • Do you feel you know God? Understand Jesus? Are connected to the Holy Spirit? What kind of things can you do to deepen your relationship with each part of the Holy Trinity?
  • What significance does scripture, tradition and sacrifice have on your relationship with God? What significance do these things have on your personal relationship with others?
  • Explain how the Eucharist is an expression of love.

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Lord, come live in me…

ALL:  so I can understand the sacrifice of love.

Leader:  Lord, come live in me…

ALL:  so I can teach others through my actions.

Leader:  Lord, come live in me…

 ALL:  so I can give hope by sharing the Gospel.

Leader:  Lord, come live in me…

ALL:  so I can be a place of refuge.

Leader:  Lord, come live in me…

ALL:  so I can become more like YOU!

Challenge for the Week: Jesus took the 10 commandments and condensed them into simpler language for people to understand.  He didn’t change the message of what the commandments say, the tasks are still the same.  Just because the language is simpler, what God wants you and I to do is not simpler. 

Take the first piece, “love God with all your heart, mind and soul.”  When you think about loving God, it’s easy to think, oh yeah, that is no problem!  However, do you give God you ALL?  Jesus says to love with ALL your heart, mind and soul but many times in your lifetime, you can find you’ve turned your back on God and not acknowledged God for the blessings in your life, either because you forget or get busy or dismiss the blessings as things you deserve.  This request isn’t so easy after all.

Then the second part of the message is to, “love your neighbor as yourself” which comes with a long list of obstacles.  First and foremost, can you say you love yourself?  If you can, then you’re halfway there but if you can’t say that you love yourself, then you’ve gotta figure out how to do that so then you can begin the work of loving others. 

Is it even possible to love God and love others equally AND love ourselves too?  This is what God wants from you and even though it is hard the relationship you have with the Holy Trinity can give insight.  Spend time this week reflecting on the commandments through the lens of the Holy Trinity, Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, then apply what you learn to living them out!

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

Sunday, October 24th Readings

30th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

Lord,

I shout for joy because you

heal me from my hurts,

you protect me from my enemies

and you provide me with peace of mind!

Your Word continues to guide me and lead me,

by teaching me your ways.

Thank you for always being there for me so

I can be Christ to others.

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

Jeremiah 31:7-9

  • Who are the burdened and downtrodden in this scripture? How does God provide them with support?
  • Where do you find security in this scripture? How is it or how can it be played out in your life?

Hebrews 5:1-6

  • What can you learn from this scripture about dealing with people who try your patience?
  • What does this scripture say about weakness? What are your weaknesses?

Mark 10:46-52

  • What do you say when you cry out to Jesus?
  • Are you persistent in making your desires known to God? What do you do about making your needs known and then acting on them?

General Questions for Journaling

  • Where do you seek consolation? Is it from a person or is it a place or something else?
  • Who comes to you for support when they are weary? What do you offer?  Is it too much?  Is it not enough?  How do you know it is what they need?
  • Have you ever felt the path you are on has too many curves or bumps? What can be done to level out the road a bit? How can you help yourself with this task? What can you do for others?
  • When did you recently sacrifice something for another person’s good? When has someone done the same for you? Has this happened with or without regret or expectation?
  • Make a list of 5-10 good qualities you possess which would draw people to you.
  • When someone comes to you for counsel, do you look for how you will benefit or how they will benefit? OR do you turn to the Holy Spirit for guidance in the counsel you give? What does this look like?
  • Jesus stood up for you and died for your sins; who do you stand up for? How do you let them know you stand up for them even in their weakness?
  • Are there people who refuse to “be quiet” in your life or in the community? Do they stay on one topic or do they harp on many?  What do you think their goal is?
  • Are there times when you should hold your tongue or the opposite, speak out more?  Identify those moments.
  • Where do you see Jesus working today? What is He doing to shout out the message of forgiveness, mercy and healing?
  • Is there somewhere Jesus needs you to go out to shout the good news?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  Jesus, have pity on me and restore my soul

ALL:  for I am weak.

Leader:  Jesus, have pity on me and restore my soul

ALL:  for I am blind.

Leader:  Jesus, have pity on me and restore my soul

ALL:  for I am crippled.

Leader: Jesus, have pity on me and restore my soul

ALL:  for I am ignorant.

Leader: Jesus, have pity on me and restore my soul

ALL:  for I am a sinner.

Challenge for the Week:  Take time this week to think about what it would be like to be blind.  How would you feel?  How might you be different?  How would you define the word see if you were blind, not having the experience of knowing what it truly was?  Then spend time considering what makes you “blind”?  What keeps you from seeing the positive in people or situations rather than the negative?  What things in your life or within yourself do you refuse to see and change?  How much time and effort do you spend trying to keep these things hidden from others, from God?  Pray…”Jesus, son of David, have pity on me.”

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

Sunday, October 10th Readings

28th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

God,

Your WORD is like a warm blanket

It keeps me company when I am lonely

And warms my soul and comforts me.

Blessed am I that I can wrap up in your WORD!

Amen

Journal/Reflection Questions

Wisdom 7:7-11

  • What do you imagine is priceless to God? What is priceless to you? How do the two differ? How are they the same?
  • Can you identify with the emotion expressed in this scripture? To what could you compare it?

Hebrews 4:12-13

  • This scripture explains God sees everything and knows everything, how does knowing God already knows what you have thought and what you have done or not done change your daily prayer?
  • Human instinct is to, like Adam and Eve, try to cover up sin. What might happen if you didn’t cover up what you did wrong?
  • How is God naked before you? Does God conceal anything? Explain.

Mark 10:17-30

  • How do you relate to the Rich Man? When have you felt God ask you to do something you were not ready to do?
  • Does God REALLY want you to give up everything to follow Him? What is the ultimate message here?
  • Have you ever been discouraged like the Rich Man in the Gospel reading because you have been faithful but Jesus continues to ask for more from you?
  • There is a saying that “anything worth doing is worth doing right”, how does this saying relate to the Gospel message? What does this mean for you?

General Questions for Journaling

  • For what do you pray? How does God respond to your prayers?
  • Reflect on your prayers; are they the same each day?
  • Are your prayers specific or general?
  • Do you plead with God only when you are in trouble?
  • How are pleading and begging the same or different? Can you bargain with God?
  • What prayer are you waiting on God to answer for you? Are you waiting because God hasn’t given you the answer you desire?
  • What causes you to “trip up” before God? Are there specific things God asks of you that you hesitate to accomplish? What holds you back?
  • How would another person know what you valued? What do you do with your valuables? How do you treat them? How are they displayed?
  • Do your actions affirm your values or do you say you value something because it makes you feel better to say so? Give an example.
  • What has God provided to you which is priceless? Have you thanked God for this?
  • Do you think God gives more to a person who is giving than to a person who isn’t as giving?
  • Who is the most giving person you know? What qualities about them do you admire the most?
  • What is your process for making decisions? Where does God fit into your discernment?
  • Who can be saved? What does it mean to be saved?
  • Do you think anyone can ever stop being good? Honest? Faithful?
  • What motivates you to be a better person?
  • How does clinging to something cause harm?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  May I seek out where YOU lead…

ALL:  Fill my spirit with WISDOM!

Leader:  May I be glad today and everyday…

ALL:  Fill my spirit with REJOICING!

Leader:  May I reach out to others…

ALL:  Fill my spirit with KINDNESS!

Leader:  May I sing YOUR praises…

ALL:  Fill my spirit with CELEBRATION!

Leader: May I follow YOUR heart…

ALL:  Fill my spirit with LOVE!

Challenge for the Week:  Identify one thing which is keeping you from giving yourself completely to Jesus?  What it is that you just can’t let go of or stands in your way of fully embracing the life God intended for you to live?  Jesus says to let go and follow me.  Consider how you feel when you don’t have someone’s full attention; perhaps a child when you are disciplining them or a spouse when you are sharing about the ups and downs of your day.  This must be how God feels when He is speaking to you and sharing His desires with you, but you don’t listen or pay attention or take action.  This week work on shedding ONE obstacle which causes you to not be in full communion with Jesus.  Work on breaking the habit and creating a new one which keeps you on the path toward a better relationship with God, the ultimate JOY!

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

Sunday, October 3rd Readings

27th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Opening Prayer

God

You created man and woman

to share in the fullness of Your love.

You call both to be in community

with one another and in communion with You.

What you bring together cannot be torn apart.

Your love cannot be removed or taken away.

It is a blessing to share, in good times and in bad

and it remains even when conflicts arise.

Let Your love be seen, felt and shared.

May I share Your love with others,

and seek Your love in others to

build up the kingdom together!

Journal/Reflection Questions

Genesis 2:18-24

  • What does this scripture remind you about in terms of your role and responsibility as a human being?
  • Does this scripture cause you to think of a woman as an afterthought? Why or why not?
  • God created Eve for Adam, why do you think God wanted to create a suitable partner for Adam?  Do you think He created a suitable partner for everyone?  Share your thoughts.

Hebrews 2:9-11

  • What does this scripture tell you about Jesus’ love?
  • How do you feel about being called a brother and sister of Jesus? What does that mean to you?
  • How are you consecrated with Jesus? What does it mean to be consecrated in Jesus?

Mark 10:2-16

  • Read this scripture as though you are a child. What different thoughts or insights do you gather?
  • This scripture says divorce is a man written law, that the people had Moses to re-write the law.  How is this practice played out today, not just with divorce but other laws created to guide us?  Explain.
  • What does Jesus mean when he says, “don’t prevent them from coming to me”? Do you think he is talking about children literally or figuratively? How does this change your understanding of the scripture?

General Questions for Journaling

  • How do you rate in terms of being an environmentalist? Do you recycle? Care for animals? Tend to the earth?  What does this reading say about your responsibility to care for God’s creation?
  • What comfort do you get from knowing Jesus spent time on earth?
  • Describe how you feel the presence of God when you are alone.
  • What can you do to find the Jesus in each person you meet? Is it possible to see Jesus in someone whom you don’t like or who doesn’t know Jesus? Explain.
  • How does Jesus’ death bring salvation to all? Does it make sense to you that you receive God’s salvation whether you believe it or not? Does that bring you comfort or cause you distress? Explain.
  • Describe the characteristics of man as you believe God created man to be.
  • Describe the characteristics of woman as you believe God created woman to be.
  • How do men and women complement each other? Is this how God created them to be?  Why or why not?
  • What causes men and women to clash? Is this how God created them to be?
  • What is your experience of divorce? How do Jesus’ words affect your opinion of divorce? How does your experience affect how you understand the scripture?
  • Do you think the fear of getting divorced keeps people who are suitable partners from getting married? What other things might keep people from getting married?
  • What makes a marriage a “perfect union”? Do you think this exists? Why or why not? Do you believe a marriage without God can last? Why or why not?
  • Make a list of some non-negotiables of a marriage God joins together?

Closing Prayer

Leader:  As I awake and begin each morning…

ALL:  May I rejoice in Your love!

Leader:  As I settle into the routine of the day…

ALL:  May I rejoice in Your love!

Leader:  As I encounter struggles and stress…

ALL:  May I rejoice in Your love!

Leader:  As I celebrate blessings and joys…

ALL:  May I rejoice in Your love!

Leader: As I lay down to rest in Your embrace…

ALL:  May I rejoice in Your love!

Challenge for the Week:  Think of a married couple you know and reflect on their relationship through the lens of these readings.  How do they complement one another?  Can you see the partnership between the two of them?

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