"Where is the newborn king of the Jews?"

Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
The Epiphany of the Lord, Jan. 8, 2012 (EpiphanyB)
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 we invoke saints from the Old Testament?

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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 60, verses 1-6

1. Even though darkness covered the earth, light and glory had come to Jerusalem. Isaiah wanted to make the Israelites to know this. Are there still “dark” areas in the world today? Where? Who will take the light to them? Can God’s light guide you in your own darkness?

2. Does Jerusalem have any light of her own? Are nations coming to her or to the light? What do you think draws people to the Church today? What is the source of the Church’s light? Do you know some people who give off this light? If so, describe them.

Responsorial Psalm
Psalm 72: 1-2, 7-8, 10-11, 12-13

1. The Psalm says, 'Lord, every nation on earth will adore you.' Using the verses of the Psalm, explain why 'all kings' would want to pay homage to our Lord.

2. Our psalmist mentions 'afflicted ones' and 'the afflicted' in two of the Psalm's verses. Are there times when you can identify yourself as an 'afflicted' one? Tell what remedies are available to you that are mentioned in the Psalm.

Second Reading
Letter of St. Paul to the Ephesians, Chapter 3, Verses 2-3, 5-6


1. Just what was this manifestation that brightened the whole world? Why was a star an integral part of the story (the one that led the wise men from foreign lands)?

2. “It was not made known to people in other generations as it has now been revealed…by the Spirit.” When did people first learn that it was God’s plan to save all creation and not just a chosen people? Why does God reveal things to people little by little? How does God work in your life?

Gospel
According to Luke, Chapter 2, Verses 1-12

1. God sent the Wise Men a message that caused them to ride camels half way across the known world. Would you ever put this kind of effort into something? What was worth this kind of a search for them? For you?

2. Compare Jerusalem and Bethlehem. Compare Herod and the Magi. What does this say about the places and people God chooses?

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.