Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Palm Sunday, Apr. 1, 2012 (PalmB)
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 sacraments did Jesus institute on Holy Thursday?
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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
Isaiah 50:4-7
1.
Name some people who have spoken on God’s behalf and have “set their
faces like flint” when confronted by injustice. Are you restrained about
standing up for justice if it involves some discomfort for you? What
injustice do you feel strongly about? What can you do to help make it
right?
2. God opens your ears many times and in many ways. Give
some reasons why God would come to you with messages “morning after
morning.”
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 22: 8-9, 17-18, 19-20, 23-24
1. The psalmist speaks of those who scoff at him and mock him. In what way can you identify with those who scoff
at our Savior and mock him with parted lips?
2.
The Response is, "My God, my God, why have you abandoned me?" Why do
you think our Lord would have uttered these words at the time of his
Passion? What had changed for God's son? Had God changed?
Second Reading
Philippians 2:6-11
1. Describe the “emptying in Jesus’ life. Go from his birth to his
death, as much as you are able. What is the power of emptiness?
2.
Is there anything in your life that helps you imitate Jesus in being
open and empty? On the other hand, are there desires that make you
regard equality with God as something you should achieve?
Gospel
Mark 14:1-15:47
1.
The woman was “wasting” expensive perfumed oil on Jesus. Does this
relate to God wasting his love on humankind? How is the Eucharist a
continuation of Christ’s “self-wasting” on us? Does your busy schedule
allow time to “waste” on love?
2. Throughout his passion, who
stayed and who didn’t stay with Jesus? Which group would you have found
yourself with? Did Jesus feel abandoned by the one he loved most, the
Father? How terrible would such a loss be for him? What does this
suffering say to you?
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.
--
Wednesday
Whoever serves me must follow me,
Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Fifth Sunday of Lent, Mar. 25, 2012 (L5B)
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 believe our salvation is a sure thing?
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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
Jeremiah 32: 31-34
1. Exterior observance can be like a stone: all outsides, with frozen insides. What would conversion be like?
2. “I will place my law within them and write it on their hearts” How does this relate to Pope Benedict’s words, “These charity workers need a ‘formation of the heart’: they need to be led to that encounter with God in Christ which awakens their love and opens their spirits to others?” [No. 31a in Benedict XVI’s encyclical, Deus Caritas Est].
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 51: 3-4, 12-13, 14-15
1. Our psalmist King David cites the greatness of the Lord's compassion in calling upon God to wipe out his offense. Even though David was an adulterer and a murderer, he knew that he could call upon the Lord to restore him and create for him a clean heart. Does this give you confidence that no matter how serious your sins may be, you can call upon God to be thoroughly cleansed? Explain.
2. As our psalmist implies, it is not enough to call upon God to create a clean heart within us. We must also ask for a steadfast spirit, for the Holy Spirit to be sustained within us. Tell how the Holy Spirit is working within you and what you are inspired to do through the gifts of the Spirit.
Second Reading
Hebrews 5: 7-9
1. Jesus uttered “supplications with loud cries and tears” and he knows our worst pain. How does knowing that impact your own suffering? Do you have to endure suffering alone?
2. Jesus spent his life alleviating the suffering of others. Is he finished with that, or does he continue to care for suffering people today? If so, how? Are you a caretaker or are you cared for?
Gospel
John 12: 20-33
1. Is there any other way for the seed to bear rich fruit other than to die? According to this idea what would it take for Jesus’ good news to spread? Where in this Gospel does the Father confirm the plan of salvation?
2. “Whoever serves me must follow me.” Follow him where? Can’t we skip the cross and go straight to the Resurrection? Can your self-centeredness die and you remain alive?
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.
--
Fifth Sunday of Lent, Mar. 25, 2012 (L5B)
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 believe our salvation is a sure thing?
--------------------------------------------
Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
--------------------------------------------
First Reading
Jeremiah 32: 31-34
1. Exterior observance can be like a stone: all outsides, with frozen insides. What would conversion be like?
2. “I will place my law within them and write it on their hearts” How does this relate to Pope Benedict’s words, “These charity workers need a ‘formation of the heart’: they need to be led to that encounter with God in Christ which awakens their love and opens their spirits to others?” [No. 31a in Benedict XVI’s encyclical, Deus Caritas Est].
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 51: 3-4, 12-13, 14-15
1. Our psalmist King David cites the greatness of the Lord's compassion in calling upon God to wipe out his offense. Even though David was an adulterer and a murderer, he knew that he could call upon the Lord to restore him and create for him a clean heart. Does this give you confidence that no matter how serious your sins may be, you can call upon God to be thoroughly cleansed? Explain.
2. As our psalmist implies, it is not enough to call upon God to create a clean heart within us. We must also ask for a steadfast spirit, for the Holy Spirit to be sustained within us. Tell how the Holy Spirit is working within you and what you are inspired to do through the gifts of the Spirit.
Second Reading
Hebrews 5: 7-9
1. Jesus uttered “supplications with loud cries and tears” and he knows our worst pain. How does knowing that impact your own suffering? Do you have to endure suffering alone?
2. Jesus spent his life alleviating the suffering of others. Is he finished with that, or does he continue to care for suffering people today? If so, how? Are you a caretaker or are you cared for?
Gospel
John 12: 20-33
1. Is there any other way for the seed to bear rich fruit other than to die? According to this idea what would it take for Jesus’ good news to spread? Where in this Gospel does the Father confirm the plan of salvation?
2. “Whoever serves me must follow me.” Follow him where? Can’t we skip the cross and go straight to the Resurrection? Can your self-centeredness die and you remain alive?
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.
--
"For God so loved the world that he gave his only Son"
Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Fourth Sunday of Lent, Mar. 18, 2012 (L4B)
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 Jesus and God the same?
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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
--------------------------------------------
First Reading
2 Chronicles 36:14-16, 19-23
1. Do you think God continues to send messengers now? What about you personally: does God send messengers “early and often”? Can you give an example? What can you do to “open your door wider” so that all the messengers can get in?
2. Name some people who were rejected because of the messages they delivered.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 137: 1-2, 3, 4-5, 6
1. This Sunday's Response is, "Let my tongue be silenced, if I ever forget you!" When you are separated from God because of sin,
have you noticed how it becomes difficult to praise and worship Him? In a way your tongue becomes silenced for a time. Explain how you can get your voice back and start again singing a song of the Lord.
2. Our psalmist tells us that it was difficult for the Israelites captive in Babylon to sing the songs of Zion in a foreign land. Is it sometimes difficult for you to speak of your faith in the company of non-believers? If you are being persecuted by a world that does not acknowledge you as one of its own, how do you overcome your reticence and speak boldly of your faith?
Second Reading
Ephesians 2: 4-10
1. In Diary of a Country Priest, the writer,George Bernanos’makes this statement: “Grace is everywhere.” Can this be true? Discuss.
2. How would you define grace? Describe three places where “the immeasurable riches of his grace “ are at work in the world or in your life today.
Gospel
John 3:14-21
1. “God so loved the world that he gave us his only son.” What did Jesus say motivates the Father to treat the world so well? What did the Father do when so motivated? How is our salvation accomplished? If you imitate God. what motivates your penance and good works?
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.
--
Fourth Sunday of Lent, Mar. 18, 2012 (L4B)
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 Jesus and God the same?
--------------------------------------------
Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
--------------------------------------------
First Reading
2 Chronicles 36:14-16, 19-23
1. Do you think God continues to send messengers now? What about you personally: does God send messengers “early and often”? Can you give an example? What can you do to “open your door wider” so that all the messengers can get in?
2. Name some people who were rejected because of the messages they delivered.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 137: 1-2, 3, 4-5, 6
1. This Sunday's Response is, "Let my tongue be silenced, if I ever forget you!" When you are separated from God because of sin,
have you noticed how it becomes difficult to praise and worship Him? In a way your tongue becomes silenced for a time. Explain how you can get your voice back and start again singing a song of the Lord.
2. Our psalmist tells us that it was difficult for the Israelites captive in Babylon to sing the songs of Zion in a foreign land. Is it sometimes difficult for you to speak of your faith in the company of non-believers? If you are being persecuted by a world that does not acknowledge you as one of its own, how do you overcome your reticence and speak boldly of your faith?
Second Reading
Ephesians 2: 4-10
1. In Diary of a Country Priest, the writer,George Bernanos’makes this statement: “Grace is everywhere.” Can this be true? Discuss.
2. How would you define grace? Describe three places where “the immeasurable riches of his grace “ are at work in the world or in your life today.
Gospel
John 3:14-21
1. “God so loved the world that he gave us his only son.” What did Jesus say motivates the Father to treat the world so well? What did the Father do when so motivated? How is our salvation accomplished? If you imitate God. what motivates your penance and good works?
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.
--
"Stop making my Father's house a marketplace."
Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Third Sunday of Lent, Mar. 11, 2012 (L3B)
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.
--------------------------------------------
First Reading
Exodus 20:1-17 or 20:1-3, 7-8, 12-17
1. Why do you think the Ten Commandments have survived all the way from the time of Moses? Is there more in each one than we ordinarily see? For instance, respect life could be extrapolated from “Thou shalt not kill." Try some others.
2. If there were ten commandments, why would Jesus say that there were only two? Which one do you say is most important? Do you follow it? What about the others?
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 19: 8, 9, 10, 11
1. Our psalmist says that the ordinances of the Lord are 'sweeter than honey.' How can it be that, instead of being harsh, the commandments of the Lord are sweet to the taste? Explain.
2. Our psalmist says that the commandments of the Lord are a source of joy -- they 'rejoice the heart.' Tell about how obeying the commandments can be a source of joy in your life. .
Second Reading
1 Corinthians 1:22-25
1. After Jesus drives out the money changers in the Gospel, the people ask this question: “What sign can you show us for doing this?” What did Paul proclaim as the sign and the wisdom for those who are called?
2. To what do the “foolishness” and “weakness” of God refer? St. Paul says the Jews had a problem accepting Christ crucified. What about you; how do you accept him? And what about the crosses in your own life? Can they be “stumbling blocks” for you too?
Gospel
Gospel: John 2:13-25
1. Jesus drove the salespeople out of the temple. Why did he do this? And, if you are a “Temple of the Holy Spirit, what are the implications for you? What needs to be driven out?
2. John says that “Jesus did not need anyone to testify about human nature. He himself understood it well.” What does this tell you about Jesus? Is it helpful to know this, or fearsome?
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.
--
Third Sunday of Lent, Mar. 11, 2012 (L3B)
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?
--------------------------------------------
Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
--------------------------------------------
First Reading
Exodus 20:1-17 or 20:1-3, 7-8, 12-17
1. Why do you think the Ten Commandments have survived all the way from the time of Moses? Is there more in each one than we ordinarily see? For instance, respect life could be extrapolated from “Thou shalt not kill." Try some others.
2. If there were ten commandments, why would Jesus say that there were only two? Which one do you say is most important? Do you follow it? What about the others?
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 19: 8, 9, 10, 11
1. Our psalmist says that the ordinances of the Lord are 'sweeter than honey.' How can it be that, instead of being harsh, the commandments of the Lord are sweet to the taste? Explain.
2. Our psalmist says that the commandments of the Lord are a source of joy -- they 'rejoice the heart.' Tell about how obeying the commandments can be a source of joy in your life. .
Second Reading
1 Corinthians 1:22-25
1. After Jesus drives out the money changers in the Gospel, the people ask this question: “What sign can you show us for doing this?” What did Paul proclaim as the sign and the wisdom for those who are called?
2. To what do the “foolishness” and “weakness” of God refer? St. Paul says the Jews had a problem accepting Christ crucified. What about you; how do you accept him? And what about the crosses in your own life? Can they be “stumbling blocks” for you too?
Gospel
Gospel: John 2:13-25
1. Jesus drove the salespeople out of the temple. Why did he do this? And, if you are a “Temple of the Holy Spirit, what are the implications for you? What needs to be driven out?
2. John says that “Jesus did not need anyone to testify about human nature. He himself understood it well.” What does this tell you about Jesus? Is it helpful to know this, or fearsome?
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.
--
"This is my beloved Son. Listen to him."
Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Second Sunday of Lent, Mar. 4, 2012 (L2B)
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 you believe in the True Prescence of Jesus at Communion?
--------------------------------------------
Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
--------------------------------------------
First Reading
Reading I: Genesis 22:1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18
1. In Genesis 15:5 God promised Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars. It is to this promise that Abraham clings as he raises the knife to kill his son. Where do you fall on the continuum, with one being low and ten high, when blind trust is required of you?
2. Is Abraham willing to offer the one he most loves because God asked it? Is God the Father willing to let the one he most loves die in order to sacrifice for humankind? In the end is Isaac willing to be sacrificed? Is Jesus willing to give his life (in union with the Father’s willingness to give everything, even his son) to show how much God loves humankind?
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 116: 10, 15, 16-17, 18-19
. Our psalmist speaks of the power of his faith, even in the darkest of times, "I believed, even when I said, 'I am greatly afflicted.'" Give an example of how your faith has strengthened you in difficult times.
2. The Psalm says, 'O Lord, I am your servant ... you have loosed my bonds.' Explain how it is that, having been freed from your chains, you wish to serve the Lord and become yoked to Him.
Second Reading
Reading II: Romans 8:31b-34
1. The Old Testament describes “Emmanuel,” as God with us. This reading says God is not only with us, but “for us. Christ … indeed intercedes for us.” Explain how this statement could be a real anti-depressant?
2. How does being “for” someone and intervening for him or her relate to “love your neighbor?”
Gospel
Gospel: Mark 9:2-10
1. It took a blinding light for Peter, James and John to begin to see or understand who Jesus was. Think of some times that you have seen the divine in the ordinary? Share your experiences with others. Think of some areas in your country, Church or life that need to be reconfigured before you would be able to see much of the divine in them. Explain.
2. Why do you think Elijah and Moses were part of this scene?
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.
--
Second Sunday of Lent, Mar. 4, 2012 (L2B)
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 you believe in the True Prescence of Jesus at Communion?
--------------------------------------------
Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
--------------------------------------------
First Reading
Reading I: Genesis 22:1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18
1. In Genesis 15:5 God promised Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars. It is to this promise that Abraham clings as he raises the knife to kill his son. Where do you fall on the continuum, with one being low and ten high, when blind trust is required of you?
2. Is Abraham willing to offer the one he most loves because God asked it? Is God the Father willing to let the one he most loves die in order to sacrifice for humankind? In the end is Isaac willing to be sacrificed? Is Jesus willing to give his life (in union with the Father’s willingness to give everything, even his son) to show how much God loves humankind?
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 116: 10, 15, 16-17, 18-19
. Our psalmist speaks of the power of his faith, even in the darkest of times, "I believed, even when I said, 'I am greatly afflicted.'" Give an example of how your faith has strengthened you in difficult times.
2. The Psalm says, 'O Lord, I am your servant ... you have loosed my bonds.' Explain how it is that, having been freed from your chains, you wish to serve the Lord and become yoked to Him.
Second Reading
Reading II: Romans 8:31b-34
1. The Old Testament describes “Emmanuel,” as God with us. This reading says God is not only with us, but “for us. Christ … indeed intercedes for us.” Explain how this statement could be a real anti-depressant?
2. How does being “for” someone and intervening for him or her relate to “love your neighbor?”
Gospel
Gospel: Mark 9:2-10
1. It took a blinding light for Peter, James and John to begin to see or understand who Jesus was. Think of some times that you have seen the divine in the ordinary? Share your experiences with others. Think of some areas in your country, Church or life that need to be reconfigured before you would be able to see much of the divine in them. Explain.
2. Why do you think Elijah and Moses were part of this scene?
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.
--
Thursday
"Repent, and believe in the gospel."
Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
First Sunday of Lent, Feb. 26, 2012 (L1B)
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 do Catholics baptize their children as babies?"
--------------------------------------------
Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
--------------------------------------------
First Reading
Genesis, Chapter 9, Verses 8-15
1. God made a covenant with us, and included every living thing. Does this reconfigure your attitude toward creation? How? Why do you think God chose a rainbow to be a sign of this covenant?
2. Explain how the Genesis story of Noah and the flood is a foreshadowing of Christian baptism.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 25: 4-5, 6-7, 8-9
1. Our Psalm speaks of being taught by the Lord ("teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me; he teaches the humble his way.") Are you a good student of the Lord? Tell about what you have learned or are learning from the Lord.
2. According to our psalmist, the Lord "shows sinners the way." As we enter the season of Lent, we could all use some guidance and help as we strive for repentance and to be bolder in our faith. xplain what you will do during Lent to become a more obedient Christian and a better witness for your faith.
Second Reading
1 Peter, Chapter 3, Verses 18-22
1. Is baptism something we undertake, or is it a gift of life that we simply accept as made possible through the resurrection of Jesus?
2. Baptism is about dying and rising. Do you have any Lenten plans that might impact your dying to self or figuratively speaking, rising from the dead?
Gospel
Mark, Chapter 1, Verses 12-15
1. “He was among the wild beasts, and the angels ministered to him.” What are the “wild beasts” in your life? Who are the angels who minister to you? Where do you yourself minister?
2. The Spirit drove Jesus into the desert to prepare for his public ministry. How do you prepare for important events? Do you let the Spirit “drive” you? What is the food that sustains you? How does fasting or emptying yourself in some way help sharpen your spiritual appetites?
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.
First Sunday of Lent, Feb. 26, 2012 (L1B)
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 do Catholics baptize their children as babies?"
--------------------------------------------
Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
--------------------------------------------
First Reading
Genesis, Chapter 9, Verses 8-15
1. God made a covenant with us, and included every living thing. Does this reconfigure your attitude toward creation? How? Why do you think God chose a rainbow to be a sign of this covenant?
2. Explain how the Genesis story of Noah and the flood is a foreshadowing of Christian baptism.
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 25: 4-5, 6-7, 8-9
1. Our Psalm speaks of being taught by the Lord ("teach me your paths; guide me in your truth and teach me; he teaches the humble his way.") Are you a good student of the Lord? Tell about what you have learned or are learning from the Lord.
2. According to our psalmist, the Lord "shows sinners the way." As we enter the season of Lent, we could all use some guidance and help as we strive for repentance and to be bolder in our faith. xplain what you will do during Lent to become a more obedient Christian and a better witness for your faith.
Second Reading
1 Peter, Chapter 3, Verses 18-22
1. Is baptism something we undertake, or is it a gift of life that we simply accept as made possible through the resurrection of Jesus?
2. Baptism is about dying and rising. Do you have any Lenten plans that might impact your dying to self or figuratively speaking, rising from the dead?
Gospel
Mark, Chapter 1, Verses 12-15
1. “He was among the wild beasts, and the angels ministered to him.” What are the “wild beasts” in your life? Who are the angels who minister to you? Where do you yourself minister?
2. The Spirit drove Jesus into the desert to prepare for his public ministry. How do you prepare for important events? Do you let the Spirit “drive” you? What is the food that sustains you? How does fasting or emptying yourself in some way help sharpen your spiritual appetites?
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.
"Child, your sins are forgiven."
Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Seventh Sunday In Ordinary Time, Feb. 19, 2012 (7B)
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 you Confess before Communion?
--------------------------------------------
Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
--------------------------------------------
First Reading
Isaiah, Chapter 43, Verses 18-19, 21-22, 24-25
1. God says he is wiping out the people’s sins for his own sake. Does this mean that he is not doing it for the sake of the people? Have they displeased him? Does this mean that even our sins cannot prevent God from loving us and forgiving us?
2. In this reading, God says, "I am doing something new!....your sins I remember no more.” How does it make you feel to know that forgiveness and mercy are available to you all the time, even when you don't deserve them; that God isn’t keeping track of all your evil deeds, but forgets them all instead? How are you at forgetting other people’s transgressions against you?
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 41: 2-3, 4-5, 13-14
1. The Psalm speaks about the need for healing when one has sinned against the Lord. Our psalmist says the Lord will help the sinner on his sickbed. Do you believe that being in a state of sin is the same as being afflicted with a sickness? If so, who is the physician that will take away your ailment and how do you get him to cure you?
2. Our psalmist seeks to stand in the Lord's presence forever. He also suggests that he will be restored from his misfortune because of his regard for the weak and the lowly. Does this remind you of the regard that our savior Jesus also had for the weak. What do you have to do to be able to stand in the Lord's presence for all eternity?
Second Reading
2 Corinthians, Chapter 1, Verses 18-22
1. What does a “first installment” of the Spirit imply? What does it mean to you to have the Holy Spirit in your heart, ready to help you in any and every circumstance of your life? Do you ever remember this gift when you are in trouble?
2. The Spirit is in your heart helping you in all things. If this is the first installment, then what do you suppose the final installment or the payment in full will be?
Gospel
Mark, Chapter 2, Verses 1-12
1. What obstacles might have stood in the way of the men taking their paralyzed friend to Jesus? Whose faith did Jesus reward? Do obstacles stop you? What allows you to do the impossible? Referring to the fact that the friends got the paralytic in to see Jesus, discuss Willa Cather’s statement: “Where there is great love, there are miracles.”
2. Why were the scribes concerned about Jesus forgiving sins? Jesus said, "Which is easier, to say...' Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, "Rise, pick up your mat and walk?'" So why do you think Jesus performed that miracle?
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.
--
Seventh Sunday In Ordinary Time, Feb. 19, 2012 (7B)
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 you Confess before Communion?
--------------------------------------------
Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
--------------------------------------------
First Reading
Isaiah, Chapter 43, Verses 18-19, 21-22, 24-25
1. God says he is wiping out the people’s sins for his own sake. Does this mean that he is not doing it for the sake of the people? Have they displeased him? Does this mean that even our sins cannot prevent God from loving us and forgiving us?
2. In this reading, God says, "I am doing something new!....your sins I remember no more.” How does it make you feel to know that forgiveness and mercy are available to you all the time, even when you don't deserve them; that God isn’t keeping track of all your evil deeds, but forgets them all instead? How are you at forgetting other people’s transgressions against you?
Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 41: 2-3, 4-5, 13-14
1. The Psalm speaks about the need for healing when one has sinned against the Lord. Our psalmist says the Lord will help the sinner on his sickbed. Do you believe that being in a state of sin is the same as being afflicted with a sickness? If so, who is the physician that will take away your ailment and how do you get him to cure you?
2. Our psalmist seeks to stand in the Lord's presence forever. He also suggests that he will be restored from his misfortune because of his regard for the weak and the lowly. Does this remind you of the regard that our savior Jesus also had for the weak. What do you have to do to be able to stand in the Lord's presence for all eternity?
Second Reading
2 Corinthians, Chapter 1, Verses 18-22
1. What does a “first installment” of the Spirit imply? What does it mean to you to have the Holy Spirit in your heart, ready to help you in any and every circumstance of your life? Do you ever remember this gift when you are in trouble?
2. The Spirit is in your heart helping you in all things. If this is the first installment, then what do you suppose the final installment or the payment in full will be?
Gospel
Mark, Chapter 2, Verses 1-12
1. What obstacles might have stood in the way of the men taking their paralyzed friend to Jesus? Whose faith did Jesus reward? Do obstacles stop you? What allows you to do the impossible? Referring to the fact that the friends got the paralytic in to see Jesus, discuss Willa Cather’s statement: “Where there is great love, there are miracles.”
2. Why were the scribes concerned about Jesus forgiving sins? Jesus said, "Which is easier, to say...' Your sins are forgiven,' or to say, "Rise, pick up your mat and walk?'" So why do you think Jesus performed that miracle?
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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