Ezekiel 2:1-5; 2 Corinthians 12:2-10; Mark 6:1-6
Scripture Passages for today can be found at www.usccb.org/nab
Can You Hear Me Now?
As we’ve all probably experienced, sometimes cell phones just do not function properly. For some reason – or for a variety of reasons- the voice just doesn’t come through. In order to receive the message clearly, the speaker or the recipient needs to make some sort of adjustment. It certainly is a frustrating experience when that other voice can’t be heard. At times the transmission may be compromised; at other times there may be too much noise and too many distractions to pay attention and hear clearly.
God’s Word today seems to remind us of the reality of an inner voice and of the importance of listening to that voice (Ezekiel, Mark). In addition, this Word shows us some of the factors that can prevent us from hearing a message (Mark).
We, in turn, are challenged to be aware of the way we listen to God’s Voice in our lives, and of the way we respond to that Voice in our life and in the lives of others.
To think about: Do I believe that God is present in my life? Do I want to hear God in my life? Do I show that I value God’s presence in my life through my values and the way I use my time?
Am I often so preoccupied with my own concerns, anxieties, or regrets that I am not even aware of the present moment, the place where God is?
Do I try to listen to others, or do I usually have my own response prepared? How can I be a better listener? Do I, like Jesus’ townspeople, tend to dismiss some truths because of the person who is speaking?
To do: At least once a day try to stay in the present moment in order to hear the Voice of God present in your own heart and mind, in the people or events of your life. Spend a few quiet moments in the morning or evening aware of God’s love and presence; it can help “improve the connection”!
Listen attentively to someone you usually ignore or dismiss; try to summarize what they are saying. Commend your child for good listening when you see it.
Minimize the noise in your life by setting limits on the amount of time for TV and computer… and then do the same for yourself!
Go for a quiet walk and notice the stars and the sounds of nature. Play a “Freeze” game with your child by being quiet for a moment and noticing sounds around you.
To pray: Hear God say to you, “I will come to you in the silence; I will lift you from your fear. You will hear my voice, I claim you as my choice. Be still and know I am here.” (“You Are Mine”)
Next week: 15th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Amos 7: 12-15; Ephesians 1: 3-14; Mark 6: 14-19
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
A Touch of Life: Scripture for June 28, 2009
Scripture for Sunday, June 28, 2009: 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time:
Wisdom 1:13-15, 2:23-24; 2 Corinthians 9: 13-15; Mark 5: 21-43
A Touch of Life
The children's classic Stone Soup tells the story of a town that had no food until someone put a large pot in the center of town and told people to bring just one thing to add to the soup. Gradually wonderful soup emerged and everyone in the town was fed.
Sometimes life is like this story of soup; at times we each can give only a small amount to a situation to help make a difference and possibly help bring about change. At times we may even wonder if our small contribution makes any difference. This, however, can be a self-defeating attitude that actually keeps someone from making a difference or being part of a larger good endeavor.
God's Word today encourages us and reminds us of our call to reach out and touch the lives of others. Even Jesus didn't heal everyone in every town in which he ministered. Yet Jesus certainly made a difference! He often healed by touching the person or simply holding that person's hand as we see in the story found in Mark's Gospel.
As God's Word encourages, strengthens, and renews us today, this Word also challenges us to use our own limited time, talent and treasure in our everyday lives to touch the lives of others. Sometimes even the slighest gesture or word cahelp bring life to another.
To think about: Who are some people who have touched my life in some way through their joy, compassion, understanding or patience? Who touches my life in practical, daily ways through their work or their generosity?
Do I have realistic expectations of myself and others or do I have expectations based on TV programs where everything is resolved in a limited amount of time? Do any of my relationships need help or a touch of healing? What personal gift or talent can I bring to that relationship?
How are Jesus and the church community a source of strength, help or healing for me and my family? Is there something I can do to help make this church community a sign of Jesus' love and healing?
To do: Thank someone who has helped you when you were in need. Do something each day, regardless of how small or insignificant it may seem, to touch someone's life with kindness, gentleness or patience.
Let Jesus’ relationship with you influence one way that you and your family use your time, talent, or treasure this week by showing love, care, or concern for others. Thank God for your gifts and talents. Parents can try to affirm the gifts and talents they notice in their child: gifts like kindness, gentleness,a sense of humor, caring for others, or co-operation.
To pray: “We are companions on the journey, breaking bread and sharing life; and in the love we bear is the hope we share for we believe in the love of our God” (“Companions on the Journey” by Carey Landry)
Next week:14th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Ezekiel 2:2-5; 2 Corinthians 12:7-10; Mark 6:1-6
Wisdom 1:13-15, 2:23-24; 2 Corinthians 9: 13-15; Mark 5: 21-43
A Touch of Life
The children's classic Stone Soup tells the story of a town that had no food until someone put a large pot in the center of town and told people to bring just one thing to add to the soup. Gradually wonderful soup emerged and everyone in the town was fed.
Sometimes life is like this story of soup; at times we each can give only a small amount to a situation to help make a difference and possibly help bring about change. At times we may even wonder if our small contribution makes any difference. This, however, can be a self-defeating attitude that actually keeps someone from making a difference or being part of a larger good endeavor.
God's Word today encourages us and reminds us of our call to reach out and touch the lives of others. Even Jesus didn't heal everyone in every town in which he ministered. Yet Jesus certainly made a difference! He often healed by touching the person or simply holding that person's hand as we see in the story found in Mark's Gospel.
As God's Word encourages, strengthens, and renews us today, this Word also challenges us to use our own limited time, talent and treasure in our everyday lives to touch the lives of others. Sometimes even the slighest gesture or word cahelp bring life to another.
To think about: Who are some people who have touched my life in some way through their joy, compassion, understanding or patience? Who touches my life in practical, daily ways through their work or their generosity?
Do I have realistic expectations of myself and others or do I have expectations based on TV programs where everything is resolved in a limited amount of time? Do any of my relationships need help or a touch of healing? What personal gift or talent can I bring to that relationship?
How are Jesus and the church community a source of strength, help or healing for me and my family? Is there something I can do to help make this church community a sign of Jesus' love and healing?
To do: Thank someone who has helped you when you were in need. Do something each day, regardless of how small or insignificant it may seem, to touch someone's life with kindness, gentleness or patience.
Let Jesus’ relationship with you influence one way that you and your family use your time, talent, or treasure this week by showing love, care, or concern for others. Thank God for your gifts and talents. Parents can try to affirm the gifts and talents they notice in their child: gifts like kindness, gentleness,a sense of humor, caring for others, or co-operation.
To pray: “We are companions on the journey, breaking bread and sharing life; and in the love we bear is the hope we share for we believe in the love of our God” (“Companions on the Journey” by Carey Landry)
Next week:14th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Ezekiel 2:2-5; 2 Corinthians 12:7-10; Mark 6:1-6
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
An Anchor In the Midst of Life's Storms
12th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Job 38: 1-11; 2Corinthians 5: 14-17; Mark 4: 35-41
At one time or another we have all experienced difficult times. At such times we may have felt that life's storms were ready to swamp the boat of our lives. During these times we too may have experienced some of the same emotions that Jesus’ friends experienced; we too may have felt like we were almost perishing (Mark). Dread, anxiety and frantic activity may have beset us in the midst of these storms, and we may have even felt abandoned by God (Mark).
God's Word today reminds us that we are not alone as we continue to move our small ships through life's sometimes stormy seas; for, like the apostles in the boat, Jesus is right here with us. This life-giving Word, in turn, also challenges us to help others during their own difficult, stormy times.
This message can take of special meaning today as we honor fathers who have been "an anchor" during storms and have helped their children throughout life.
To Think About: How do I usually react to storms in my life; do I turn to God as a first or last resort? Who has helped me or my family during stormy, difficult times? How do I respond to someone who is experiencing a storm? What do I do to experience God's peace during the day? Am I "addicted" to news, conflicts, or problems that do not need to be in my life? Do I create unnecessary storms in my relationships because of my own unrealistic expectations? Do I prolong storms and difficulties by complaining but not doing anything?
To Do: Take time to remember ways that your father provided guidance (even when you might not have wanted it!) and ways that your father helped you through some storms in your life. Turn to God with thanksgiving each day so that you are aware of God's presence in your life. Picture yourself handing over your fear and worry to Jesus. Change a way of dealing with a situation that troubles you; ask help from someone you trust - and ask God's help and direction.
To Pray: Hear Jesus saying to you, "Peace….Why are you afraid?" Or pray "The Serenity Prayer": "God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."
---
Next Week: 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Wisdom 1: 13 - 15, 2: 23- 24; 2Corinthians 9: 13-15; Mark 5: 21-43
At one time or another we have all experienced difficult times. At such times we may have felt that life's storms were ready to swamp the boat of our lives. During these times we too may have experienced some of the same emotions that Jesus’ friends experienced; we too may have felt like we were almost perishing (Mark). Dread, anxiety and frantic activity may have beset us in the midst of these storms, and we may have even felt abandoned by God (Mark).
God's Word today reminds us that we are not alone as we continue to move our small ships through life's sometimes stormy seas; for, like the apostles in the boat, Jesus is right here with us. This life-giving Word, in turn, also challenges us to help others during their own difficult, stormy times.
This message can take of special meaning today as we honor fathers who have been "an anchor" during storms and have helped their children throughout life.
To Think About: How do I usually react to storms in my life; do I turn to God as a first or last resort? Who has helped me or my family during stormy, difficult times? How do I respond to someone who is experiencing a storm? What do I do to experience God's peace during the day? Am I "addicted" to news, conflicts, or problems that do not need to be in my life? Do I create unnecessary storms in my relationships because of my own unrealistic expectations? Do I prolong storms and difficulties by complaining but not doing anything?
To Do: Take time to remember ways that your father provided guidance (even when you might not have wanted it!) and ways that your father helped you through some storms in your life. Turn to God with thanksgiving each day so that you are aware of God's presence in your life. Picture yourself handing over your fear and worry to Jesus. Change a way of dealing with a situation that troubles you; ask help from someone you trust - and ask God's help and direction.
To Pray: Hear Jesus saying to you, "Peace….Why are you afraid?" Or pray "The Serenity Prayer": "God, grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can, and the wisdom to know the difference."
---
Next Week: 13th Sunday in Ordinary Time: Wisdom 1: 13 - 15, 2: 23- 24; 2Corinthians 9: 13-15; Mark 5: 21-43
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)