20th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Our readings for 20th Sunday of Ordinary Time are:

1. Isaiah 56: 1, 6-7
2. Psalms 67: 2-3, 5, 6, 8
3. Romans 11: 13-15, 29-32
4. Matthew 15: 21-28

• If you're happy and you know it ...
• My mother-in-law often found things that brought her joy.  I remember her frequently saying of some event or accomplishment in the family "that makes me so happy ..."
• What brings you joy?
• Does that joy stem from events, people, things, accomplishments ...?
• Does this joy that you feel last?
• Would you like something better than what you have?

• I've taken a shining to you ...
• What are some of the blessings that God has given you and your community?
• How do you think those blessings benefit those around you?
• How do you think that those blessings demonstrate the glory of God on earth?
• How does your use of those blessings demonstrate the glory of God on earth?

• Mercy me
• How would you define mercy in general?
• What are some examples of Divine mercy in your life?
• What can you conclude about someone who shows mercy?
• What mercy have you shown of late?

• Children of promise in odd places
• Humility, trust, ... what are some of the qualities that we need in order to receive God's blessings in our lives?
• What are some of the things in your life that have blocked God's blessings, His graces in your life?
• How are you removing those blocks today?

Preparation for Reconciliation:

1. What about my prayer life brings me joy?
2. How am I being a good steward of God's blessings in my life?
3. If I asked my closest friends what it is that I gave others the most, what would they say?
4. How am I opening my heart to a wider community?

We are what we give away, and who we give it to

I had a friend, call him Jim if you will,
Who never felt comfortable giving handouts.

So, one day, he sees a guy begging,
Jim pulls over in his car and invites the guy in.

"When's the last time that you ate?" Jim asks.
They guy couldn't remember.

So they go to the local MacDonald's and draw a lot of stares,
Mostly from those downwind of Jim's new friend.

Then Jim notices the guy has no shoes,
And his clothes are pretty threadbare.

So they drive over to Choc, get him fitted out.
Not exactly ready for the cover of GQ, but better than he was.

By this time, Jim's late for an appointment,
And drives his new friend to a busy corner,

Doubtless so that he can get money for his next meal.
They part, both of them changed.

They guy says, "thanks.  My name is Robert".
Jim shares his name in return.

So, the question today is:
Which of them was more the Presence of Jesus: Jim or Robert?

Which of them is most like you?
Which of them got the most out of that exchange?

Why does any of this matter?

Shalom!