"They took him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord."

Here are Discussion Questions for this Sunday's Readings, Dec. 28, 2014, where the story of the presentation of the child Jesus at the temple in accordance with Jewish tradition is described in detail.
Discussion Questions for Sunday's Readings

SUNDAY READINGS

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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Sirach, Chapter 3, Verses 2-6, 12-14 or
Genesis, Chapter 15, Verses:1-6 and Chapter 21, Verses 1-3

1. Why is the honoring of parents inseparable from gratitude towards God? Explain.

2. Why do you think Sirach says that good things happen (prayers heard, sins atoned, long life, made happy by children) to you when you honor your parents?

Second Reading
Colossians, Chapter 3, Verses 12-21 or
Hebrews, Chapter 11, Verses 8, 11-12, 17-19

1. “Over all these put on love.” What is the only thing God asks of us? What happens to people when they are loved? What would the world be like if everyone really loved each other? What kinds of things would disappear off the face of the earth?

2. St. Paul gives some ideas about how we can love each other and live in harmony in Colossians . . . compassion, kindness, humility, patience, bearing with one another, forgiving each other. . . . Is this easy? How are you doing with it in your life?

Gospel
Luke, Chapter 2, Verses 22-40

1. “–and you yourself a sword will pierce – so that the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.” What does Simeon’s statement to Mary mean to you?

2. “They returned to Galilee, to their own town of Nazareth. The child grew and became strong, filled with wisdom;” Was Jesus somewhat a product of his environment? What do you think life in Nazareth was like?

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By Anne Osdieck of the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University
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"Hail, full of grace! The Lord is with you."

Sunday’s Scripture texts for Dec. 21, 2014 (4AdvB) describe God’s promise to David and its fulfillment in Jesus, the Son of David. From the First Reading, David expresses his sincere desire to build a temple for God but it is actually God who will build his own house and establish a great family of descendents: the House of David.

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Third Sunday of Advent, Dec. 21, 2014 (4AdvB)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Mass Readings
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
New American Bible
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: Was the Blessed Virgin Mary a Virgin Forever?

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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Second book of Samuel, Chapter 7, Verses 1-5, 8b-12, 14a,16

1. Define “house” first as David uses it in this reading. Could the word “family” be substituted for “house” as the Lord uses it in response to David? Where might God dwell besides in a tent or building? Where does the real Church reside?

2. Compare and contrast what David wants to give God with what God did for David? Can you relate to “receiving much more than you give”? What happens to you when you open up just a little to God? God’s gift which brought David’s house to perfection was David’s Heir. Who was that?

Responsorial Psalm
Psalms 89:2-3, 4-5, 27, 29

1. Our Psalm response is, 'Forever I will sing the goodness of the Lord.' One reason to sing of the Lord's goodness is because His promises are trustworthy. Describe how you have relied on the promises of the Lord in your journey.

2. David is to call out to the Lord, 'You are my father, my God, the Rock, my savior.' We too are inspired to cry out to God in a similar way. Tell of the times when you have felt like crying out to God in worship and praise.

Second Reading
Letter of St. Paul to the Romans, Chapter 16, Verses 25-27

1. What was the “mystery kept secret for long ages”? Do you think the “mystery” was really a secret or possibly was it not understood till Jesus became man? What does the Incarnation reveal to you about God?

2. If all people believed that the message of God’s saving plan is for “all nations” what would happen to conflict between nations, selfishness that creates poverty and starvation and the disparity of wealth? Is there anything you can do to brighten up some of this darkness?

Gospel
According to Luke, Chapter 1, Verses 26-38

1. Can you relate to Mary’s unconditional “yes” to God, or is your yes conditional? If you do say yes, will God come take up residence in your life?

2. What could God do for the wounded in the world through your hands if he were invited to take up residence in the deepest part of your soul?

Sunday Bible Study Group
Please reflect on the Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing.

"Make straight the way of the Lord"

This Sunday, Dec. 14, 2014, the third Sunday of Advent, is often called "Gaudate" which means, "rejoice". We count it as the mid-point of this season of anticipation. You will notice that the candle we light this Sunday is pink not purple and the priest's stole and other parts of our altar environment are rose suggesting a more rejoicing attitude.

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Third Sunday of Advent, Dec. 14, 2014 (3AdvB)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Mass Readings
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
New American Bible
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: Do Catholics "worship" Mary as we do Jesus?

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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Book of the prophet Isaiah, Chapter 61, Verses 1-2a, 10-11

1. The Lord sent Isaiah to bring glad tidings to the poor, to heal the brokenhearted, give liberty to captives and release to prisoners. Do you participate in the sorrows of the world in any way? Are these lines glad tidings for you? On the other hand, do you help with the healing and liberation of prisoners?

2. “As the earth brings forth its plants . . . as a garden makes its growth spring up. . .” Can you trust this God who keeps the earth fruitful year after year, to keep his promises? What gift mentioned in the first and second readings did God plant deep within our hearts to transform us from the inside?

Responsorial Psalm
Luke 1: 46-50, 53-54

1. Our Blessed Mother says, "the Almighty has done great things for me." In what way do you also believe that God has done great things for you, and how have you responded?

2. Mary declares that God has filled the 'hungry' with good things. Do you consider yourself one of the hungry ones? And if so, in what way has the Lord fed you with good things?

Second Reading
First Letter of St. Paul to the Thessalonians, Chapter 5, Verses 18-24

1. How can you actively ensure that the Spirit has opportunities to work in you? How would “test everything and pray without ceasing” work toward that end? How can anyone “rejoice always” when they are suffering? Do you know people who seem to do that?

2. What is the relationship between the Holy Spirit working in the depths of your spirit and God’s peace that is applied to your body, soul and spirit?

Gospel
According to John, Chapter 1, Verses 6-8, 19-28

1. In the first reading Isaiah was sent with a message from God. In the Gospel God sends John to testify to the light of Christ. Does God send you? How could you testify to the light in some way?

2. What are the “crooked roads and deserts” that bother you most? What would happen if you were the “voice” trying to straighten things out? Who would help you do this?

Sunday Bible Study Group
Please reflect on the Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing.

"Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths."

Where do we look for hope? Has God abandoned us or is God bidding us to look beyond what presently imprisons us in darkness? Sunday's Gospel for Dec. 7, 2014 tells us that John the Baptist faced very similar conditions during his day. And at the very outset, Mark declares his gospel to be the "good news."

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Second Sunday of Advent, Dec. 7, 2014 (2AdvB)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Mass Readings
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
New American Bible
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: What is the Old Testament Root of Baptism?

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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Book of the prophet Isaiah, Chapter 40, Verses 1-5, 9-11

1. Left to human management world history is a wasteland or at best a rough road. What in this reading makes the rough spots in life smoother? Is your road smooth all the time? Rough? Does God walk with you when you are in “rugged country”? How do you know that?

2. “For the mouth of the LORD has spoken.” What “Word” has God spoken to us? Could the Word be the “shepherd gathering lambs in his arms? Do you think God has always been walking on the roads of world history, even before he spoke his Word?

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 85:9-10-11-12, 13-14

1. Our psalmist says, "I will hear what God proclaims." For us, this verse can be seen as a reminder to study the Word of the Lord. Explain how your study of the Word is strengthening your faith.

2. The Psalm says that, "Truth shall spring out of the earth." This verse may foretell the coming of the Messiah, our Lord Jesus Christ. What else about the Psalm prepares us for the birth of our Savior?
Second Reading
Second Letter of St. Peter, Chapter 3, Verses 8-14

1. What does the statement from this reading “With the Lord one day is like a thousand years and a thousand years like one day.” mean to you?

2. What is your relationship with earth? Do you take the earth for granted, or do you treat it with reverence? Give an example of treating earth with reverence.

Gospel
According to Mark, Chapter 1, Verses 1-8

1. How do you share John the Baptist’s mission to proclaim Christ’s coming in the world? Do you do this with words or by the way you live? How is John’s message of repentance and judgment different from Jesus’?

2. Are there “noises” that block out John the Baptist’s cry, “Prepare the way of the Lord” for you? What are they? What can you do during Advent to block the “noises”?

Sunday Bible Study Group
Please reflect on the Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing. 
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"Be watchful! Be alert!"

The Gospel passage for Sunday, November 30, 2014, proclaims the essential truth that will be celebrated in all its dimensions throughout the year -- namely, the "advent" truth that God has come in the person of Jesus Christ, and that the same Lord, now invisibly present through the Spirit, will come again in power and glory.
Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
First Sunday of Advent, Nov. 30, 2014 (1AdvB)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Mass Readings
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
New American Bible
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: Did John the Baptist go straight to heaven when he died?

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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Book of the prophet Isaiah, Chapter 63, Verses 16-17, 19; Chapter 64, Verses 2-7

1. Picture a potter working with clay? Describe it. Even though we wander away from the Lord, God is our father and handles us as a potter handles the clay. Explain this metaphor.

2. “. . . that we were mindful of you in our ways!” Is there a veil that keeps you from seeing God’s presence at work in your life and in your world? How can you use Advent to lift that veil, to get more in touch with God in and around you?

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 80:2-3, 15-16, 18-19

1. The Psalm says, 'Lord, make us turn to you ....' Have you noticed at times when we stray off His path how the Lord tugs at each of us so that we return to His ways.  Give an example from your own experience.

2. Our psalmist is writing about the scattered people of Israel, but his words may apply to each of us in our separation from God. In what way are you inspired by the Psalm's verses to repent
and seek renewal?

Second Reading
First Letter of St. Paul to the Corinthians, Chapter 1, Verses 3-9

1. What gift does Paul say you have been given in order to do God’s work now, as you wait for Christ’s coming at the end of your life? The concern here is to make sure you are ready for life with God after death. Is there life with God before your death? Explain.

2. St. Paul says “that in him you were enriched in every way.” In what ways has God enriched you personally? To say Paul’s words in another way, his gift to us is the richness of everything in him. What richness in Christ is he passing on to you?

Gospel
According to Mark, Chapter 13, Verses 33-37

1. As vigilant gatekeepers watching for the Lord of the house, what signs do you see that tell you God is present in the world and in your life?

2. As gatekeepers we are responsible for the preservation of the gift of the earth. What is the Church’s responsibility in the maintenance of the earth’s life? What is your responsibility in this?

Sunday Bible Study Group
Please reflect on the Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing. 
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"He will sit upon his glorious throne"

This Sunday, November 23, 2014,we will celebrate the Solemnity of Christ the King and close the Liturgical Year. Lex orandi, lex credendi. As we pray, so we believe. At the end, Christ will reign as King. This fulfills what He taught us in prayer: “Your Kingdom come; Your will be done on earth...”

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ The King, Nov. 23, 2014 (Christ King A)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Mass Readings
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
New American Bible
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: "What would you ask of God?"

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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Book of the prophet Ezekiel, Chapter 34, Verses 11-12, 15-17

1. Who is responsible for the sheep being scattered, injured, lost and sick? Were the past shepherds negligent in their duty of caring for the sheep? What will the attentive shepherd do after he has rescued the sheep? What part of this reading is relevant for you?

2. According to this reading, what kind of shepherd is the Lord God? If there is a message in this reading for people in Church leadership positions, what is it? What can you do to “bind up the injured and heal the sick”?

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 23: 1-3, 5-6

1. It is said that King David wrote this Psalm during the last days of his life. What is it about the Psalm that reassures us we will have eternal life with our Lord?

2. The Psalm's opening verse, 'The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want," implies that everything will be provided for us by our Lord. For our part, what is expected of us if we are to dwell in the house of the Lord for years to come?

Second Reading
First Letter of St. Paul to the Thessalonians, Chapter 15, Verses 20-26, 28


1. “For he must reign until he has put all his enemies under his feet. The last enemy to be destroyed is death.” Name some signs of “death or serious illness” that you see in the world, the environment or in the Church today.

2. How can you help Christ destroy death or at least challenge the many forms of violence in the world today?

Gospel
According to Matthew, Chapter 25, Verses 31-46

1. This king is the almighty and glorious God. Why did he come into the world in solidarity with the poor, wear thorns for his crown and have a cross for his throne? Who can relate on a personal level to a to very rich, brilliant leader? Who can relate to a poor and suffering one?

2. “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink.” Christ uses our generosity as a criterion for salvation. How is it also a criterion for happiness? What happens to you when you give?

Sunday Bible Study Group
Please reflect on the Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing.

"Well done, my good and faithful servant."

These are Bible Study Questions for this Sunday's Gospel story which presents us with the last of the three parables that form Jesus' final discourse in Matthew's Gospel. Each of the three parables relates a different kind of accountability required of Christians as they prepare for their glorious encounter with Christ.

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time, Nov. 16, 2014 (33A)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Mass Readings
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
New American Bible
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: Is it OK for God to get angry?

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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Book of Proverbs, Chapter 31, Verses 10-13, 19-20, 30-31

1. “The woman who fears the Lord is to be praised.” Do you see a connection between the woman in this reading with the wise servant portrayed in the Gospel? What is the return on her investment? How does fear of the Lord (awe and wonder in the presence of God) help make a person wise?

2. Would you call the woman in this reading holy? Why? Do you know some people like her? What actions do they perform that you would call holy?

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 128: 1-5

1. The Psalm says that those who fear the Lord will be blessed, and favored. Explain in what way you are being blessed materially and spiritually as a consequence of your faith.

2. The Psalm makes reference to a fruitful vine and olive plants as an example of how a man is blessed if he fears the Lord. This reminds us that our Lord is the vine and we are the branches. Explain how we bear fruit by having a right relationship with the Lord.

Second Reading
First Letter of St. Paul to the Thessalonians, Chapter 5, Verses 1-6


1. Can you be “overtaken like a thief at night” by “the day of the Lord”? Are you always ready? Almost ready? Dozing a little?

2. With false security concerning death at one end of the continuum and constant dread at the other, where would you put yourself? Explain.

Gospel
According to Matthew, Chapter 25, Verses 14-30

1. God gives Spirit to human creatures because God is, in essence, self-donation. God’s nature, then, pushes us to cooperate with it by giving it away. What has been freely received is freely given. When Spirit is given away, it doubles. Explain the Gospel parable in light of this theory.

2. The servant who received one talent was afraid of losing it and so hid it in the ground. Thus, spiritual growth involves risk, as do love and trust. Are you willing to take risks, or do you react out of fear? If you were a leader in the Church, what kind of risks would you take to insure growth and meeting the needs of the faithful?

Sunday Bible Study Group

Please comment on the Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing. 
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“Destroy this temple and in three days I will raise it up.”

On the Feast of St. John Lateran we hear about the only recorded act of violence by Jesus. We reflect upon this and explain why there are things that Christians should hold as worth fighting for. Jesus referred to the temple in Jerusalem as "my Father's house." So why did Jesus get so angry in the Gospel? Was this an act of love? How could it be?


Discussion Questions for Sunday's Readings 
Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome (32A)
November 9, 2014

SUNDAY READINGS

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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Ezekiel, Chapter 47, Verses 1-2, 8-9, 12

1. Water in this reading transforms all that it touches. Discuss. Water is also a symbol of the presence of God. How does this presence or your memory of it transform things in your life?

2. Compare salt water with fresh water. What does the following sentence mean to you: “This water empties into the sea, the salt waters, which it makes fresh”?

Second Reading
First Corinthians, Chapter 3, Verses 9c-11, 16-17

1. Paul had just finished reprimanding the Corinthians for the divisions among them and he reminded them that they were one in Christ. Would St. Paul have to write a new homily for the Church of 2008? Discuss the pros and cons of divisions.

2. Paul asks, “Do you not know the Spirit of God dwells in you?” If so, can you ask the Holy Spirit for help when you need it? Do you think the Holy Spirit knows what you need even when you don’t? Could you show reverence for someone because the Holy Spirit is in that person?

Gospel
John, Chapter 2, Verses 13-22

1. Which of the following enraged Jesus most: the selling of animals in the temple, exchanging money in the holy place, or exploitation of the poor?

2. How are the poor exploited today? Can you, as a member of Christ’s Body, do anything to make it better? On a scale of ten how would you rate your present actions [10 = caring like Jesus, 0 = not caring at all]?

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"And I shall raise him on the last day."

This Sunday we will celebrate All Souls’ Day and the readings give us the basis for this beautiful tradition of remembering our departed brethren. The First Reading (Wis. 3: 1-9) tells us that even though they “seemed in the view of the foolish to be dead,” theirs is a hope “full of immortality” for they are “in the hand of God” and “in peace.” Jesus declares in the Gospel (Jn. 6:37-40) that such is the will of the Father: “This is the will of Him who sent me, that I should lose nothing of all that he has given me, but raise it up at the last day.” This is all because of God’s love, as St. Paul explains in the Second Reading (Rom. 5:5-11): “God proves his love for us in that while we were still sinners Christ died for us.”

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
All Souls Day, Nov. 2, 2014
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University
Sunday Mass Readings
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
New American Bible
Prayer of the Hours

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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Wisdom, Chapter 3, Verses 1-9

1. Scripture says, “As gold in the furnace, he proved them, and as sacrificial offerings he took them to himself.” Why would gold be put into “the furnace”? Why would an offering have to be “sacrificed”? Have you ever had to sacrifice some of yourself and then found yourself “taken to God’s self” afterwards?

2. Can you give some examples of persons who are just, and who therefore, “shine and dart about as sparks through stubble”?

Second Reading
Romans, Chapter 5, Verses 5-11

1. How do you think “God proves his love for us” through the life of Christ?

2. The Holy Spirit pours God’s love into all souls. Does this fact give you hope or does it make you skeptical?

Gospel
John, Chapter 6, Verses 37-40

1. What was the “will of the one who sent Jesus,” as mentioned in the Gospel of John? When did God get this idea? Or was it a plan from all eternity to send Jesus to earth?

2. Jesus promised eternal life to everyone who believes in him. Do your deceased loved ones have this eternal life? Do you think God sometimes gives us signs that our departed ones are safe? Have you ever received such a sign?

"Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?"

In the Sunday Gospel according to St. Matthew we encounter Christ in conversation with a lawyer who has asked him a question, not in order to learn, but in a malicious plot to destroy Christ. Out of this evil intent Christ brings forth the beautiful gift of the "greatest commandment"

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Oct 26, 2014 (30A)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Mass Readings
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
New American Bible
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: What commandments require restitution?

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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Book of Exodus, Chapter 22, Verses 20-26

1. God’s love brought the Israelites out of Egypt where they had been aliens. According to this reading, how were they to repay God’s love? How do you repay God’s love for you? How does this First Reading relate to the Gospel reading?

2. Widows, oppressed, the poor, orphans, aliens are all precious to God. Is there anything you could do to make the life of one person in one of these groups better? Discuss.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 18: 2-4, 47, 51

1. Our psalmist says he is shielded by the Lord, his 'rock of refuge.' In what ways have you been shielded by the Lord and made safe from your spiritual enemies?

2. The Psalm says 'The Lord lives! Explain how you interpret this verse and how the Lord is present to you in your life.

Second Reading
First Letter of St. Paul to the Thessalonians, Chapter 1, Verses 5c-10

1. The Thessalonians heard the word of the Lord and became a model community for all believers. They passed the love of God on to their neighbors. Who would you envision as a “model” in your parish, or your workplace today?

2. Every place the Thessalonians went, the “word of the Lord sounded forth.” How can you yourself “sound forth” (without preaching)?

Gospel
According to Matthew, Chapter 22, Verses 15-21

1. You were made in God’s image and likeness, and every good thing you have comes from God. What does God ask in return? Whatever our answer, is it always easy? Discuss whether “love your neighbor” includes your arrogant neighbor or just your kind neighbor.

2. Jesus said, “You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and first commandment. The second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” John Shea explained Jesus’ answer as follows: “He (Jesus) articulates the underlying structure of love that all law and prophecy is built on. Living in relationships of love to God and neighbor is the essence.” Discuss.

Online Sunday Bible Study Group
Please comment on the Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing. 
--

"Then repay to Caesar what belongs to Caesar"

Are service to God and to Caesar compatible? This Sunday, October 19, 2014, the Lord commands not only to give to God what is God's (that is, everything), but also to give to Caesar what is Caesar's. Jesus’ response tells us that one’s citizenship does not have to be at odds with one’s faith.

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Oct 19, 2014 (29A)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Mass Readings
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
New American Bible
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: What role does conscience play in our Christian lives?

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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Book of the prophet Isaiah, Chapter 45, Verses 1, 4-6

1. Cyrus, who was a Gentile, permitted the Israelites to return from captivity in Babylon to their homeland. Did he have any idea that God had chosen him, called him by name and was using him to accomplish a good thing for the chosen people? Can you give examples of God working through people without their knowing it? Has God ever used you when you weren’t aware of it?

2. What kinds of things might you discover if you were in dialogue with non-Christians? Give some other examples of non-Christian people whom God has used to bring about good.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalms 96:1, 3, 4-5, 7-8, 9-10

1. The Psalm encourages the Israelites to 'Sing to the Lord a new song.' Do you also feel like singing when you realize you have been brought back from a type of spiritual exile? Explain.

2. Our psalmist speaks of bringing gifts to the Lord to express praise and worship of our Sovereign. What in the way of gifts do you have to offer the Lord?

Second Reading
First Letter of St. Paul to the Thessalonians, Chapter 1, Verses 1-5b

1. What do the following do for your reception of the word: the presence of the Holy Spirit; people living the Gospel with much conviction?

2. Compare and contrast: receiving the word as a way of life with receiving the word as a code of conduct. On a scale of 1 to 10, where is your “work of faith, labor of love and endurance in hope”?

Gospel
According to Matthew, Chapter 22, Verses 15-21

1. In this Gospel, are the Pharisees more interested in taxes or in undermining Jesus’ influence? Since the universe and everything in it is made in God’s image, what does belong to God? Are you a caretaker of the earth?

2. Do God’s and Caesar’s worlds have to be separated? What would the world look like if they were joined together?

Online Sunday Bible Study Group
Please share your thoughts on the Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing. 
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"Many are invited, but few are chosen."

This Sunday, October 12, 2014 (28A), the message of the parable of the royal wedding banquet is clear. God invites the people of Israel to his wedding banquet in heaven but despite the fact that they have enjoyed his favor over so many generations they do not come.

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Twenty-eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Oct 12, 2014 (28A)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Mass Readings
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
New American Bible
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: Why is it a sin to miss Mass on Sunday?

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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Book of the prophet Isaiah, Chapter 25, Verses 6-10a

1. How might banquet imagery describe the fullness of life in the presence of God. How can a feast of juicy, rich food and pure, choice wines be a sacramental vision of the universe?

2. God will destroy the veil (= anything that separates the people from the divine presence of God), and will also destroy death and wipe away all tears from every face. How do these images speaks to you? Explain.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 23: 1-6

1. The Psalm likens us to sheep of the Good Shepherd ("The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.") Are you willing to humble yourself before the Lord, and become obedient as sheep do? Explain.

2. If you are willing to be obedient to the Lord, there are many rewards promised in the Psalm. Mention some of these and say which ones
you have received.

Second Reading
Letter of St. Paul to the Philippians, Chapter 4, Verses 12-14, 19-20

1. “In every circumstance and in all things I have learned the secret of being well fed and of going hungry, of living in abundance and of being in need,” St. Paul says. Do you feel the same about being well fed and being hungry? What is the secret Paul learned?

2. All of these readings show God bestowing gifts on us without measure. Did the Philippians imitate this in their self-giving sacrifice for Paul? Do you “measure” when you give? How could you be a little freer?

Gospel
According to Matthew, Chapter 22, Verses 1-14
1. What does the Father give us in the Eucharistic banquet? What hungers are satisfied?

2. God invite us to the banquet and sets the table and offers us the wedding garment. (The wedding garment signifies a readiness to understand and act on Jesus’ teachings.) Besides answering God’s invitation, what is our job? How does this banquet not only sustain life but also transfigure it?

Online Sunday Bible Study Group
Please share your thoughts on the Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing. 
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"The stone that the builders rejected has become the cornerstone"

This Sunday's Gospel for Oct. 5, 2014 (27A) is a most appropriate message for the celebration of Respect Life Sunday. It is the start of a month-long period when Catholics across the nation join together to witness to the inherent equality and transcendent value of every human being. And one of the main gifts we have from God is the gift of life for which we are responsible.

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Twenty-seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time, Oct 5, 2014 (27A)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Mass Readings
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
New American Bible
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: Should Catholics Join Non-Catholic Bible Studies?

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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Book of the prophet Isaiah, Chapter 5, Verses 1-7

1. Isaiah sings about his friend’s vineyard: “Why, when I looked for the crop of grapes, did it bring forth wild grapes?” What kind of “grapes” will God find in your vineyard?

2. “My friend had a vineyard on a fertile hillside; he spaded it, cleared it of stones, and planted the choicest vines; within it he built a watchtower, and hewed out a wine press.” The owner was devoted to the vineyard and did all the work mentioned above to produce a bountiful harvest. What was the job of the vineyard? How did it fail?

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 80:9, 12, 13-14, 15-16, 19-20

1. Our psalmist speaks of a vineyard where the Lord has broken down its walls, so that every passer-by plucks its fruit. What would you do if you were in danger of losing the Lord's protection? Explain.

2. The Psalm contains a petition to the Lord, asking for new life and to be restored. For some of us, petitioning the Lord may not be our first resort when we are troubled or facing difficulties. Can you identify with the Israelites in this Psalm who are seeking to be revived by God? Explain
Second Reading
Letter of St. Paul to the Philippians, Chapter 4, Verses 6-9

1. How do you feel about peace standing guard over your mind and heart in Christ? What does St. Paul say takes the place of the anxiety? What replaces the worries? Is this true for you?

2. For what are all people of good will reaching when they embrace what is true, honorable, just, pure, lovely, gracious, excellent and worthy of praise? What are you able to embrace if you are tied up with anxieties? Discuss.

Gospel
According to Matthew, Chapter 21, Verses 33-43

1. Name some of God’s servants who have been sent as messengers and have spent or lost their lives. Which ones do you admire most? Why? Who are God’s messengers today? What changes in society do they advocate?

2. How can you be God’s messenger or voice in some way in your community, work or Church? What changes in society can you work toward? As a messenger, what would you be willing to endure: contempt, suspicion, death?

Online Sunday Bible Study Group
Please share below your thoughts on the Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing. 
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"Tax collectors and prostitutes are entering the kingdom of God before you."

The parable for this Sunday, Sept. 28, 2014 (26A) was one of three parables Christ spoke in His last days. They are known in history as the Parables of Rejection. This day's Gospel was the first and shortest of the melancholy three. This Sunday we are also treated to one of the most beautiful passages about Jesus in the entire Bible. It is found in the Letter of St. Paul to the Philippians.

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Twenty-sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Sep. 28, 2014 (26A)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Mass Readings
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
New American Bible
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: Why Don't you Read the Bible?

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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Book of the prophet Ezekiel, Chapter 18, Verses 25-28

1. If you turn away from wickedness you are turning toward God. One spiritual writer calls turning toward God “conversion.” Do you think you are converted just once or do you do it many times in your lifetime? If so, why? If not, why?

2. The Lord is quoted as saying, “When someone virtuous turns away from virtue to commit iniquity, and dies, it is because of the iniquity he committed that he must die.” Does such iniquity affect the entire Mystical Body of Christ? What about a member doing good deeds?

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 25: 4-5, 8-9, 10, 14

1. This Psalm can be likened to an Act of Contrition by our psalmist. By praying this Psalm before God, are you led to seek a remission of your sins? Explain.

2. We may have sympathy for the author of this Psalm (David). Can you identify with the psalmist, as he seeks God's mercies and confesses his sins? Talk about your own approach to seeking God's forgiveness.

Second Reading
Letter of St. Paul to the Philippians, Chapter 2, Verses 1-11

1. St. Paul tells us to have the same attitude that is also in Christ Jesus. In this reading what words describe his attitude? Can you act that way? What are Jesus’ deeds as described in the reading? Can you do such deeds yourself?

2. The second part of the reading (which is left out in the alternate version, which a parish may choose), beginnign with the words “though he was in the form of God,” contains the entirety of Christian, Catholic belief. Do you understand what it is saying? Can you put it in your own words?

Gospel
According to Matthew, Chapter 21, Verses 28-32

1. Using the idea of “conversion” (see the first question on the first reading), discuss the first son and the second son. Which one needed to change and turn toward his father? Are you presently in need of conversion in any area of your life? What counts in building community, saying some good words, or actually doing some good deeds? At which one are you better, words or deeds?

2. “When John came to you in the way of righteousness, you did not believe him,” Why didn’t the chief priests and the elders believe John the Baptist? Is it hard to think in new ways? Is it hard for you?

Online Sunday Bible Study Group
Please share below your reflections on the Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing. 
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"If your brother sins against you..."

In the Gospel for this Sunday, Sept. 7, 2014 (23), Matthew adapts sayings of the historical Jesus to address the new situation of an established local church in need of due process to handle difficult problems. He compels us to consider the essential elements in the process of forgiveness among members of the Church community.

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Twenty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time, Sep. 7, 2014 (23A)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Mass Readings
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: What do you think is the Worst Sin?

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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Book of the prophet Jeremiah, Chapter 20, Verses 7-9

1. Jeremiah couldn’t ignore the call to prophecy even though it brought him much suffering. Who today speaks out about injustice and is met with mockery? What social or economic structure of oppression would you like to transform so badly that you can’t keep quiet about it?

2. Would your first inclination be to avoid suffering if possible? Is it humanly possible to avoid all suffering? What are some good “by-products” of suffering?

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 63: 2, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9

1. Our psalmist says his flesh pines and his soul thirsts for God. Have you also experienced a longing for God that is akin to being lifeless and without water? Explain.
2. The psalm is written by a man who truly loves the Lord, and yet even our psalmist experiences periods of separation from God. Do you believe that God reaches out even to those who do not believe in Him, and that their souls too are thirsting for the Lord? Give an example.

Second Reading
Letter of St. Paul to the Romans, Chapter 12, Verses 1-2

1. “For who has known the mind of the Lord?” How good are you at second-guessing God? Can you always figure out ahead of time where God is leading you, or what God is doing in your life?

2. Look at at the rear-view mirror at the highway of your life. Can you see where God was on the road with you?

Gospel
According to Matthew, Chapter 16, Verses 21-27

1. “Lose your life for my sake and find it” What does Jesus mean when he says you will “find” your life? How does the “finding” apply to this life as well as the next?

2. You cannot take your money and possessions with you when you die. If you “lose your life” in love for others, does that give you something to take with you? Is it the love in your heart that goes with you when you die?

Online Sunday Bible Study Group
Please share your reflections on the Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing. 
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"Get behind me, Satan!"

Last week we heard in our Gospel reading about Peter’s spontaneous profession of faith, “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God.” This was followed by Christ’s great mandate to Peter and his successors, “Upon this rock I will build my Church.” And yet here we are with the immediately following text where Jesus calls Peter a stumbling block and says, “Get behind me Satan” What has happened?

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Twenty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time, Aug. 31, 2014 (22A)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University
Sunday Mass Readings
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: What do you think is the Worst Sin?

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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Book of the prophet Jeremiah, Chapter 20, Verses 7-9

1. Jeremiah couldn’t ignore the call to prophecy even though it brought him much suffering. Who today speaks out about injustice and is met with mockery? What social or economic structure of oppression would you like to transform so badly that you can’t keep quiet about it?

2. Would your first inclination be to avoid suffering if possible? Is it humanly possible to avoid all suffering? What are some good “by-products” of suffering?

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 63: 2, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9

1. Our psalmist says his flesh pines and his soul thirsts for God. Have you also experienced a longing for God that is akin to being lifeless and without water? Explain.

2. The psalm is written by a man who truly loves the Lord, and yet even our psalmist experiences periods of separation from God. Do you believe that God reaches out even to those who do not believe in Him, and that their souls too are thirsting for the Lord? Give an example.

Second Reading
Letter of St. Paul to the Romans, Chapter 12, Verses 1-2

1. “For who has known the mind of the Lord?” How good are you at second-guessing God? Can you always figure out ahead of time where God is leading you, or what God is doing in your life?

2. Look at at the rear-view mirror at the highway of your life. Can you see where God was on the road with you?

Gospel
According to Matthew, Chapter 16, Verses 21-27

1. “Lose your life for my sake and find it” What does Jesus mean when he says you will “find” your life? How does the “finding” apply to this life as well as the next?

2. You cannot take your money and possessions with you when you die. If you “lose your life” in love for others, does that give you something to take with you? Is it the love in your heart that goes with you when you die?

Online Sunday Bible Study Group
Please share below your reflections on the Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing. 
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"Upon this rock I will build my church."

This Sunday's gospel story places Jesus in Caesarea Philippi and the disciples are just back from their mission of preaching. Jesus asks them who the people think he is. He is measuring the faith-status in the regions around him. All of us at some stage must come to our own Caesarea Philippi. Just as he challenged the disciples, to each of us who are baptized Jesus leans over and whispers, "But YOU...who do YOU say I am?" 

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Twenty-first Sunday in Ordinary Time, Aug. 24, 2014 (21A)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Mass Readings
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: What influence does the Pope have on your personal life?

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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Book of the prophet Isaiah, Chapter 22, Verses 9-23

1. Discuss ways in which Eliakim is a prototype of the ultimate leader, Christ. And, what does Eliakim have in common with Peter?

2. God says he will fix Eliakim like a peg in a sure spot so he will have a place of honor. The reading is full of similies and metaphors concerning God’s support for him. Besides having a solid faith, what other qualities or virtues do you look for in Church leadership?

Responsorial Psalm
Psalms 138:1-2, 2-3, 6, 8

1. The Psalm's response petitions the Lord,"Do not forsake the work of your hands." Can you identify with this verse? In what way do you believe you are the work of His hands?

2. Our psalmist is grateful that the Lord has built up strength within him. Do you also believe that your prayer time with the Lord can become a source of strength, even though you may have approached the Lord from a position of weakness? Explain.

Second Reading
Letter of St. Paul to the Romans, Chapter 11, Verses 33-36

1. “For who has known the mind of the Lord?” How good are you at second-guessing God? Can you always figure out ahead of time where God is leading you, or what God is doing in your life?

2. Look at at the rear-view mirror at the highway of your life. Can you see where God was on the road with you?

Gospel
According to Matthew, Chapter 16, Verses 13-20

1. Jesus hears who “other people” say he is, but he wants to know who his disciples think he is. How would you answer his question, “Who do you say that I am?”

2. “I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven.” Do the keys refer to Peter’s authority to legislate or interpret the Law? “And upon this rock I will build my church.” Who is building the church, Christ or Peter? How could/do you help “build” the church?

Online Sunday Bible Study Group
Please share below your reflections on the Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing. 
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"O woman, great is your faith!"

These Sunday Readings for August 17, 2014 for fare among the most difficult passages in the Bible. St. Paul seems to be talking in circles when he talks to the Romans. While in the Gospel, Jesus appears to be cold, even callous to the woman crying out for help. We need to spend some time trying to understand these readings so we can profit from the Church's message to us today.

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Twentieth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Aug. 17, 2014 (20A)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Mass Readings
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: Can non-Catholic people go to heaven?

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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Book of the prophet Isaiah, Chapter 56, Verses 1, 6-7

1. In this reading God offers saving mercy to all people. If there were a continuum with one end being exclusive and the other aggressively inclusive (with passively non-exclusive somewhere in the middle) where would you find yourself?

2. Could inclusiveness be improved where you work, live, play, pray? How? What can you do to improve an exclusive situation?

Responsorial Psalm
Psalms 67:2-3, 5, 6, 8

1. This Sunday's Psalm response is 'O God, let all the nations praise you.' What does this verse convey about the universal appeal of our faith?

2. Our psalmist petitions God to bless us and 'let his face shine upon us.' In what way do you feel blessed by the Lord, and what does it mean to you to let the Lord's face shine upon you?

Second Reading
Letter of St. Paul to the Romans, Chapter 11, Verses 11-15, 29-32

1. “The gifts and the call of God are irrevocable.” According to St. Paul’s statement, will God ever change God’s mind and stop loving you? “Even if we are faithless he is faithful, because he cannot deny himself.” (2 Tim. 2:13) Explain this quote in the light of the first quote.

2. What are the implications of these scripture passages for you?

Gospel
According to Matthew, Chapter 15, Verses 21-28

1. What virtues did the Canaanite woman possess that got Jesus to answer her request? What is it about her statement, “Please, Lord, for even the dogs eat the scraps that fall from the table of their masters.” that made Jesus change his mind and grant her request to heal her daughter? Do you think he could have received an insight about his mission from his Father during this conversation?

2. This woman’s faith broke through some barriers that excluded certain people. What inclusion blockades do you see today that you think need to be broken through?

Online Sunday Bible Study Group
Please share below your reflections on the Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing. 
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"O you of little faith, why did you doubt?"

In this Sunday's Gospel, Jesus walks on water and asks Peter to do the same. We are assured that the Lord Jesus keeps vigilant watch over each one of us at all times, and especially in our moments of temptation and difficulty. When troubles and danger threaten to overwhelm you, how do you respond? With expectant faith and hope in the Lord's abiding presence, love and care for you?

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Nineteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Aug. 10, 2014 (19A)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University

Sunday Mass Readings
Podcast of the Readings 
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios 
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: Is it better to be a lukewarm Catholic or an on-fire Protestant?

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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
First Book of Kings, Chapter 3, Verses 5, 7-129

1. Isaiah was writing for a poor community.What images and ideas in this reading would be of particular interest to them? What does God tell us to do in this reading to share in the abundant banquet of rich fare?

2. What is the food that can satisfy your soul’s deepest hunger?

Responsorial Psalm
Responsorial Psalm: 85:9, 10, 11-12, 13-14

1. Our psalmist commits himself to hearing God's voice. Are you tuned in to the voice of the Lord? How does He speak to you in your daily walk?
2. Our Psalm says that the Lord's salvation is near to those who fear Him, that the Lord is 'glory dwelling in our land.' Do you feel His presence among us, and do you believe your salvation is within reach? Explain.

Second Reading
Letter of St. Paul to the Romans, Chapter 9, Verses 1-5

1. Paul is in “great sorrow and constant anguish” because some of his own people, the Israelites, have not accepted the fact that the Messiah has come. Is this because he wishes the best for them and would even sacrifice himself to help them?

2. How can Paul say, “I could wish that I myself were accursed and cut off from Christ for the sake of my own people, my kindred according to the flesh”? Is it really moral to give away not just you life but your eternal salvation for the sake of others? Or is Paul exaggerating for the sake of emphasis?

Gospel
According to Matthew, Chapter 14, Verses 22-33

1. Peter was walking toward Jesus and doing fine. What caused him to suddenly to sink? What causes you to cancel your “leap of faith?” What do you think would have helped Peter stay afloat? What might help you?
2. After Jesus got into the boat the wind died down. Do you think he can calm your fears the way he calmed the sea?

Online Sunday Bible Study Group
Please share your reflections on the Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing. 

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