Monday, August 8, 2022

20th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Our readings for the 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time are:
  1. Jeremiah 38: 4-6, 8-10
  2. Psalms 40: 2, 3, 4, 18
  3. Hebrews 12: 1-4
  4. Luke 12: 49-53
  • Perishing for lack of prophets
    • In times of crisis a community will likely actively seek God's guidance, if not intervention.  But sometimes, a reliable prophet can be hard to find, especially if that community has made a habit out of driving out, persecuting, and otherwise not appreciating the work of prophets in their midst.
    • With all of the sources for guidance that the Church offers us today, do we still need prophets?
    • What's your definition of a prophet?
    • How do you think that God chooses such people?
    • Could you see a prophet being an asset in your community?
            • In celebration of lowliness
              • Mother Theresa is probably one of few saints to be recognized and appreciated by the world at large.  Usually we kill such people instead.
              • What do you think was Mother Theresa's most enduring trait?
              • How do you think that she became that way.?
              • Would you want to become like her in that way?
              • Family inspiration
                • Think about family and friends who have gone before you.
                • Do you think that they are anxiously watching you now?
                • How might they be influencing you life today?
                • How might you share your family memories with others, who may not have the "cheering section" that you do?
              • What divides us and what brings us together
                • God's highest good for all of humanity is that we all find ourselves, each other, and God in a healed, holy, and whole Kingdom of God.  Simple enough when you put it that way.  But the Devil is in the details.
                • What sets you apart from "just anyone"?
                • What do you typically do when you are tempted to "blend in"?
                • Has that behavior of yours ever threatened whatever relationship that you had with the other person?
              • Preparation for Reconciliation
                1. Where might God be calling you to be more prophetic in your life?
                2. Where might God be calling you draw inspiration from one of our spiritual ancestors?
                3. Where might God be calling you closer to Himself by a family member or friend who is already gone ahead of you?
                4. Where might God be calling you to make a difference by being different?

                 Shalom!

                No comments:

                Post a Comment