Feast of the Holy Family Sunday

Our readings for the Feast of the Holy Family Sunday are:

1. Genesis 15: 1-6; 21: 1-3
2. Psalms 105: 1-2, 3-4, 6-7, 8-9
3. Hebrews 11:8, 11-12, 17-19
4. Luke 1: 26-38

• Shaped by belief
• What are some intangible things that you believe in that make your life richer?
• How did you come to believe those things?  Because you needed to believe them, because you wanted to believe, because everyone around you believed, because you saw what that belief did for and to others?
• Have you shared any of those beliefs with others?
• Why or why not?

• Remember me
• Loneliness comes in many flavors, and comes for many reasons.
• What are some of the ways that you are sometimes lonely?
• Do you think that God is there with you in those times?
• Does that make a difference?
• Do you think that Jesus ever felt lonely?
• Do you think that you can companion Jesus in His loneliness?

• Strength from the family
• Every once in awhile I'd do something and my father would say "and here I used to wonder why male alligators eat their young."  I guess that was meant to inspire me not to envy alligators.
• Through the years, how has your family been a source of strength?
• How has your family been a source of grief for you?
• Do you think it's possible to get one without the other?

• Focus focus focus
• It's easy, and perhaps natural, to read about Anna and wonder if she found that life of contemplation rewarding, rich, lively.
• Finding peace at home can often be difficult.  No sooner do you get everything "done" and a new crop of needs pop up, almost as though they were waiting for an opportune moment.
• How do you find the time, and space, to get perspective on your life?
• What in your crazy life are you most thankful for?
• What things in your life would you love to do without?
• Do you think that it's possible for you to make your life simpler this Christmas season?

Preparation for Reconciliation:

1. When was the last time that I gave voice to what matters most to me?
2. Who am I reaching out to this week in their loneliness?
3. How am I bringing strength and joy to my family?
4. What am I thankful for in my day to day life?

Shalom!