Sunday Readings' Reflections
Fourth Sunday of Advent, December 20, 2009 (4AdvC)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University
Sunday Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios para Domingo
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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
Micah, Chapter 5, Verses 1-4
1. With “embracing majestic ruler” at one end of the continuum and “embracing poverty” at the other, where do you think the Church falls? Why? Where would you like to see it fall? Explain.
2. If you were expecting a majestic ruler how would you have felt about the stable and manger? When you experience poverty in your life, do you accept it as a meeting place with God or do you run from it?
Second Reading
Letter to the Hebrews, Chapter 10, Verses 5-10
1. Why do you think this reading about the “offering of the body of Christ” was chosen for the fourth Sunday of Advent?
2. St. Paul said “by this ‘will’ we have been consecrated” once for all. That means we have been made holy (by association with Christ); set aside. Who is it that has been made holy? Why is Christ’s sacrifice infinitely effective?
Gospel
According to Luke, Chapter 1, Verses 39-45
1. The infant “leaped for joy” in his mother’s womb at the recognition of the savior. Discuss this moment as mankind’s welcome to the savior. How close do you come to “leaping for joy” when you recognize God’s presence in your life?
2. Where does Mary’s greatness lie in salvation history? How about you? When the Holy Spirit gives you insights, do you always believe them or act on them?
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Thursday
December 13, 2009, Third Sunday of Advent - "But one mightier than I is coming"
Sunday Readings Reflections
Third Sunday of Advent, December 13, 2009 (3AdvC)
Sunday Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios para Domingo
Discussion Questions & Online Bible Study
Burning Question: Should Catholics be offfended by the term "Xmas"?
First Reading
Zephaniah, Chapter 3, Verses 14-18
1. ”He will sing joyfully because of you.” This sentence paints a picture. What are some examples in the world about which you might say, “Listen, God is singing”?
2. Do not fear the Lord is in our midst. This reading says it twice. Have you ever remembered the presence of God in the middle of a crisis? What effect did it have on the you?
Second Reading
Philippians, Chapter 4, Verses 4-7
. St. Paul says that peace will guard our hearts and minds. The conditions? We must rejoice in the Lord always, be kind to all, lose anxiety, make all our requests known to God and thank God as though he has already granted the requests. It is a long list. Are you better at some than others? Which ones need improvement?
2. Maybe you rejoice when you are singing at Mass on Sunday. Are there other times during the week that you experience such joy? What makes you happy in the Lord?
Gospel
According to Luke, Chapter 3, Verses 10-18
1. What kind of people went to hear John the Baptist and repent? Would you show up to hear someone like John today? What would you want to see and hear? Can people be prophets even though their looks or their behavior is a departure from the norm?
2. When the tax collectors, soldiers and others asked John a question. What should they do to be forgiven and prepare to start a new life? He told them to share their food and clothing with the poor; to be honest and just with their neighbors. How do you think he would answer in today’s world if you asked him that question?
Share Your Reflections
Click COMMENTS below and leave your comments and reflections.
Third Sunday of Advent, December 13, 2009 (3AdvC)
Sunday Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios para Domingo
Discussion Questions & Online Bible Study
Burning Question: Should Catholics be offfended by the term "Xmas"?
First Reading
Zephaniah, Chapter 3, Verses 14-18
1. ”He will sing joyfully because of you.” This sentence paints a picture. What are some examples in the world about which you might say, “Listen, God is singing”?
2. Do not fear the Lord is in our midst. This reading says it twice. Have you ever remembered the presence of God in the middle of a crisis? What effect did it have on the you?
Second Reading
Philippians, Chapter 4, Verses 4-7
. St. Paul says that peace will guard our hearts and minds. The conditions? We must rejoice in the Lord always, be kind to all, lose anxiety, make all our requests known to God and thank God as though he has already granted the requests. It is a long list. Are you better at some than others? Which ones need improvement?
2. Maybe you rejoice when you are singing at Mass on Sunday. Are there other times during the week that you experience such joy? What makes you happy in the Lord?
Gospel
According to Luke, Chapter 3, Verses 10-18
1. What kind of people went to hear John the Baptist and repent? Would you show up to hear someone like John today? What would you want to see and hear? Can people be prophets even though their looks or their behavior is a departure from the norm?
2. When the tax collectors, soldiers and others asked John a question. What should they do to be forgiven and prepare to start a new life? He told them to share their food and clothing with the poor; to be honest and just with their neighbors. How do you think he would answer in today’s world if you asked him that question?
Share Your Reflections
Click COMMENTS below and leave your comments and reflections.
Wednesday
December 6, 2009, Second Sunday of Advent - "Prepare the way of the Lord"
Sunday Readings Reflections
Second Sunday of Advent, December 6, 2009 (2AdvC)
Sunday Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios para Domingo
Homilies for Sunday
Burning Question: Did John the Baptist go to heaven right after his death?
First Reading
Baruch, Chapter 5, Verses 1-9
1. In the First Reading, Baruch wrote a message of hope for the people of God suffering in exile. Where are the valleys in the life of the People of God today? Where are the mountains? What about your personal life?
2. God gave Jerusalem the name “the peace of justice, the glory of God’s worship.” Does this name fit us today? What would you like God to rename your parish, your community, you?
Second Reading
Philippians, Chapter 1, Verses 4-6, 8-11
1. Discernment is listening to the Spirit in a given human situation. A discerning person celebrates Advent (watches for God’s coming) all year round. Discuss.
2. “The one who began a good work in you will complete it if you remain on the path or the Way,” St. Paul says. Who is the instigator of good works in you? Does this imply that you trust yourself or trust God to complete these works?
Gospel
According to Luke, Chapter 3, Verses 1-6
1. Why does Luke belabor all the historical references in the beginning of this reading? Would we find those names in history books?
2. What is the significance of the sentence, “All flesh shall see the salvation of God”? What are the implications for the Church if the entire world is included in this plan? What does it imply for you?
Share Your Reflections
Click COMMENTS below and leave your comments and reflections.
Second Sunday of Advent, December 6, 2009 (2AdvC)
Sunday Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios para Domingo
Homilies for Sunday
Burning Question: Did John the Baptist go to heaven right after his death?
First Reading
Baruch, Chapter 5, Verses 1-9
1. In the First Reading, Baruch wrote a message of hope for the people of God suffering in exile. Where are the valleys in the life of the People of God today? Where are the mountains? What about your personal life?
2. God gave Jerusalem the name “the peace of justice, the glory of God’s worship.” Does this name fit us today? What would you like God to rename your parish, your community, you?
Second Reading
Philippians, Chapter 1, Verses 4-6, 8-11
1. Discernment is listening to the Spirit in a given human situation. A discerning person celebrates Advent (watches for God’s coming) all year round. Discuss.
2. “The one who began a good work in you will complete it if you remain on the path or the Way,” St. Paul says. Who is the instigator of good works in you? Does this imply that you trust yourself or trust God to complete these works?
Gospel
According to Luke, Chapter 3, Verses 1-6
1. Why does Luke belabor all the historical references in the beginning of this reading? Would we find those names in history books?
2. What is the significance of the sentence, “All flesh shall see the salvation of God”? What are the implications for the Church if the entire world is included in this plan? What does it imply for you?
Share Your Reflections
Click COMMENTS below and leave your comments and reflections.
November 29, 2009, First Sunday of Advent - "Be vigilant at all times"
Sunday Readings Reflections
First Sunday of Advent, November 29, 2009 (1AdvC)
Sunday Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios para Domingo
Homilies for Sunday
Burning Question: What does "pray without ceasing" mean?
First Reading
Jeremiah, Chapter 33: Verses 14-16
1. Advent is a process of looking back at Christ’s birth and the inauguration of his kingdom on earth and looking forward to it fulfillment. What does Advent awaken in you? Does anything in your daily life interfere with your spiritual Advent preparation?
2. Why is Advent called the season of hope? Why is hope vital to your life? What would your life be like without hope? What can you do to bring hope to people you know?
Second Reading
1 Thessalonians, Chapter 3, Verse 12 - Chapter 4, Verse 28
1. St. Paul says that the same Jesus who lived and died and rose from the dead is present and active among us now making us increase (in numbers) and abound in love for one another and for all. How do you think “increasing in numbers” correlates with “abounding in love for one another and for all”?
2. St. Paul said he “abounded in love” for the Thessalonians to strengthen their hearts. Discuss “abounding in love” as an effective method of strengthening hearts or eliciting change of any kind. Do you think great change or growth ever happens without immense love?
Gospel
According to Luke, Chapter 21, Verses 25-28, 34-36
1. Jesus tells us to pray for strength. Do you believe that if you ask for strength you will receive it? Could God send it through other people? Could you be a source of strength for others?
2. Jesus is God’s last Word (Christ’s Incarnation) to us. Discuss this idea.
Share Your Reflections
Click COMMENTS below and leave your comments and reflections.
First Sunday of Advent, November 29, 2009 (1AdvC)
Sunday Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios para Domingo
Homilies for Sunday
Burning Question: What does "pray without ceasing" mean?
First Reading
Jeremiah, Chapter 33: Verses 14-16
1. Advent is a process of looking back at Christ’s birth and the inauguration of his kingdom on earth and looking forward to it fulfillment. What does Advent awaken in you? Does anything in your daily life interfere with your spiritual Advent preparation?
2. Why is Advent called the season of hope? Why is hope vital to your life? What would your life be like without hope? What can you do to bring hope to people you know?
Second Reading
1 Thessalonians, Chapter 3, Verse 12 - Chapter 4, Verse 28
1. St. Paul says that the same Jesus who lived and died and rose from the dead is present and active among us now making us increase (in numbers) and abound in love for one another and for all. How do you think “increasing in numbers” correlates with “abounding in love for one another and for all”?
2. St. Paul said he “abounded in love” for the Thessalonians to strengthen their hearts. Discuss “abounding in love” as an effective method of strengthening hearts or eliciting change of any kind. Do you think great change or growth ever happens without immense love?
Gospel
According to Luke, Chapter 21, Verses 25-28, 34-36
1. Jesus tells us to pray for strength. Do you believe that if you ask for strength you will receive it? Could God send it through other people? Could you be a source of strength for others?
2. Jesus is God’s last Word (Christ’s Incarnation) to us. Discuss this idea.
Share Your Reflections
Click COMMENTS below and leave your comments and reflections.
Thursday
November 22, 2009 - Feast of Christ the King - "My kingdom does not belong to this world"
Sunday Reading Reflections
Solemnity of Christ the King, November 22, 2009 (34B)
Sunday Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios para Domingo
Homilies for Sunday
Burning Question: What commandments require restitution?
First Reading
Book of Daniel, Chapter 12, Verses 1-3
1.Can you think of people you have known or known about who have died and are now part of the “cloud of witnesses” St. Paul refers to? What things did those people do that keep their memories alive for you? Which of their qualities would you like to emulate in your life?
2. This reading is about “end times.” Von Balthasthe ar says its purpose is to “make people conscious of the ultimate decision of man for God and God for man.” Where do you stand in your ultimate decision for God? Do you feel that God will take care of you if you consistently try to make decisions in God’s favor?
Second Reading
Letter to the Hebrews, Chapter 10, Verses 11-14, 18
1. Compare and contrast Old Covenant priests with their repeated sacrifices, with Jesus and his one sacrifice. How do the many celebrations of the Eucharist fit into a one-sacrificial event?
2. Jesus won redemption for us. Does he just hand it to us? What part do we have in it? Does God ask you for sacrifices? How can your sacrifices help anything?
Gospel
According to Mark, Chapter 12, Verses 38-44
1. “The Word of God will not pass away.” List the things in your life that you will be happy to have pass away some day. Is there anything in your life that you do not want to pass away?
2. What do you take with you when you die? Is there any correlation between love and the Word of God that does not pass away? Is there anything you can you do to stretch your capacity to love?
Share Your Reflections
Click COMMENTS below and leave your comments and reflections.
Solemnity of Christ the King, November 22, 2009 (34B)
Sunday Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios para Domingo
Homilies for Sunday
Burning Question: What commandments require restitution?
First Reading
Book of Daniel, Chapter 12, Verses 1-3
1.Can you think of people you have known or known about who have died and are now part of the “cloud of witnesses” St. Paul refers to? What things did those people do that keep their memories alive for you? Which of their qualities would you like to emulate in your life?
2. This reading is about “end times.” Von Balthasthe ar says its purpose is to “make people conscious of the ultimate decision of man for God and God for man.” Where do you stand in your ultimate decision for God? Do you feel that God will take care of you if you consistently try to make decisions in God’s favor?
Second Reading
Letter to the Hebrews, Chapter 10, Verses 11-14, 18
1. Compare and contrast Old Covenant priests with their repeated sacrifices, with Jesus and his one sacrifice. How do the many celebrations of the Eucharist fit into a one-sacrificial event?
2. Jesus won redemption for us. Does he just hand it to us? What part do we have in it? Does God ask you for sacrifices? How can your sacrifices help anything?
Gospel
According to Mark, Chapter 12, Verses 38-44
1. “The Word of God will not pass away.” List the things in your life that you will be happy to have pass away some day. Is there anything in your life that you do not want to pass away?
2. What do you take with you when you die? Is there any correlation between love and the Word of God that does not pass away? Is there anything you can you do to stretch your capacity to love?
Share Your Reflections
Click COMMENTS below and leave your comments and reflections.
Friday
November 15, 2009, 33rd Sunday Cycle B - "But of that day or hour, no one knows"
Sunday Reading Reflections
Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time, November 15, 2009 (33B)
SUNDAY READINGS
Homilies for Sunday
Burning Question: Is it better to pray or to learn the faith?
First Reading
Book of Daniel, Chapter 12, Verses 1-3
1.Can you think of people you have known or known about who have died and are now part of the “cloud of witnesses” St. Paul refers to? What things did those people do that keep their memories alive for you? Which of their qualities would you like to emulate in your life?
2. This reading is about “end times.” Von Balthasthe ar says its purpose is to “make people conscious of the ultimate decision of man for God and God for man.” Where do you stand in your ultimate decision for God? Do you feel that God will take care of you if you consistently try to make decisions in God’s favor?
Second Reading
Letter to the Hebrews, Chapter 10, Verses 11-14, 18
1. Compare and contrast Old Covenant priests with their repeated sacrifices, with Jesus and his one sacrifice. How do the many celebrations of the Eucharist fit into a one-sacrificial event?
2. Jesus won redemption for us. Does he just hand it to us? What part do we have in it? Does God ask you for sacrifices? How can your sacrifices help anything?
Gospel
According to Mark, Chapter 12, Verses 38-44
1. “The Word of God will not pass away.” List the things in your life that you will be happy to have pass away some day. Is there anything in your life that you do not want to pass away?
2. What do you take with you when you die? Is there any correlation between love and the Word of God that does not pass away? Is there anything you can you do to stretch your capacity to love?
Share Your Reflections
Click COMMENTS below and leave your comments and reflections.
Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time, November 15, 2009 (33B)
SUNDAY READINGS
Homilies for Sunday
Burning Question: Is it better to pray or to learn the faith?
First Reading
Book of Daniel, Chapter 12, Verses 1-3
1.Can you think of people you have known or known about who have died and are now part of the “cloud of witnesses” St. Paul refers to? What things did those people do that keep their memories alive for you? Which of their qualities would you like to emulate in your life?
2. This reading is about “end times.” Von Balthasthe ar says its purpose is to “make people conscious of the ultimate decision of man for God and God for man.” Where do you stand in your ultimate decision for God? Do you feel that God will take care of you if you consistently try to make decisions in God’s favor?
Second Reading
Letter to the Hebrews, Chapter 10, Verses 11-14, 18
1. Compare and contrast Old Covenant priests with their repeated sacrifices, with Jesus and his one sacrifice. How do the many celebrations of the Eucharist fit into a one-sacrificial event?
2. Jesus won redemption for us. Does he just hand it to us? What part do we have in it? Does God ask you for sacrifices? How can your sacrifices help anything?
Gospel
According to Mark, Chapter 12, Verses 38-44
1. “The Word of God will not pass away.” List the things in your life that you will be happy to have pass away some day. Is there anything in your life that you do not want to pass away?
2. What do you take with you when you die? Is there any correlation between love and the Word of God that does not pass away? Is there anything you can you do to stretch your capacity to love?
Share Your Reflections
Click COMMENTS below and leave your comments and reflections.
Thursday
November 8, 2009, 32nd Sunday Cycle B - "This poor widow put in more"
Sunday Reading Reflections
Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time, November 8, 2009 (32B)
SUNDAY READINGS
HOMILIES FOR SUNDAY
Burning Question: What is sacrifice?
First Reading
First Book of Kings, Chapter 17, Verses 10-16
1. The widow is asked to give away the last bits of flour reserved for her final meal. As a result, she receives a jar of flour that doesn’t ever go empty—but she didn’t know that when she gave her last bits away. What kind of a leap of faith would that require? Is there any way that you can relate to this situation?
2. God rewarded the widow in this reading. Are there usually rewards for helping others? How does one develop a habit of giving? On a scale of one to ten, rate your ability to give.
Second Reading
Letter to the Hebrews, Chapter 9, Verses 24-28
1. Two widows make sacrifices, one in the First Reading and one in the Gospel . Compare Christ’s sacrifice with these.
2. What did God the Father give away?
Gospel
According to Mark, Chapter 12, Verses 38-44
1. Why does Jesus direct the disciples’ attention to the widow giving her last pennies? Is reward mentioned in this reading? Do you think she will get any reward?
2. Why would the widow give her last coins away? Does Jesus’ comment explain why? Can you do what she did? How close can you come?
Share Your Reflections
Click COMMENTS below and leave your comments and reflections.
Thirty-second Sunday in Ordinary Time, November 8, 2009 (32B)
SUNDAY READINGS
HOMILIES FOR SUNDAY
Burning Question: What is sacrifice?
First Reading
First Book of Kings, Chapter 17, Verses 10-16
1. The widow is asked to give away the last bits of flour reserved for her final meal. As a result, she receives a jar of flour that doesn’t ever go empty—but she didn’t know that when she gave her last bits away. What kind of a leap of faith would that require? Is there any way that you can relate to this situation?
2. God rewarded the widow in this reading. Are there usually rewards for helping others? How does one develop a habit of giving? On a scale of one to ten, rate your ability to give.
Second Reading
Letter to the Hebrews, Chapter 9, Verses 24-28
1. Two widows make sacrifices, one in the First Reading and one in the Gospel . Compare Christ’s sacrifice with these.
2. What did God the Father give away?
Gospel
According to Mark, Chapter 12, Verses 38-44
1. Why does Jesus direct the disciples’ attention to the widow giving her last pennies? Is reward mentioned in this reading? Do you think she will get any reward?
2. Why would the widow give her last coins away? Does Jesus’ comment explain why? Can you do what she did? How close can you come?
Share Your Reflections
Click COMMENTS below and leave your comments and reflections.
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