Readings for Sunday May 1st, 2011
Summary of the Gospel by YM Central
Ever heard something so unbelievable that you couldn’t just take it on faith, you had to have proof? Maybe it was a sports score, or a friend getting a great job, or someone finally getting a date! Have you ever had anyone tell you that a deceased loved-one was alive again? Well, if you did, you’d probably want some proof, wouldn’t you? You would have difficulty believing that to be true for one simple fact: We have never experienced a dead person coming back to life again. This brings us to our Sunday Gospel reading.
As we read and pray over this passage, we must understand it in light of the fact that the disciples had just recently seen Christ's death and apparent defeat on the Cross. Just when they thought they were with someone special, He was taken from their midst in brutal fashion. The people in Jesus’ time didn’t just see crucifixion as an instrument of death, rather, they saw it as complete rejection by God: Only a sinner would die in such a horrible fashion. This brings us to Easter. We can only imagine the reactions the disciples had in seeing the risen Lord: No doubt they cheered and rejoiced as never before seen.
This passage shows us the reality of the Resurrection: Jesus actually talked with His disciples, and was physically touched by them. The Resurrection was real, and it radically transformed the lives of each disciple, to the point that they were willing to die for Christ. Of course, there was one Apostle who was absent the first time Jesus appeared to the disciples: St. Thomas the Apostle. We’d like to know what St. Thomas was doing, but we are not given that information.
He wasn’t there, and Jesus used his absence to teach us something important about faith. Jesus talks about the importance of believing without seeing, and how blessed we are for believing, even though we don’t physically see Jesus. Unfortunately, because St. Thomas didn’t believe at first, he is often referred to as the ‘Doubting Thomas’ because he wouldn’t believe the testimony of the other disciples. St. Thomas’ reaction is perfectly legitimate.
He had no reason to believe in the Resurrection. (And don’t forget, the Church refers to St. Thomas not as ‘doubter’ but as ‘Martyr’.) Indeed, St. Thomas’ life ended in death for Jesus. The bottom line to this entire Gospel is St. Thomas' declaration about Jesus’ identity: My Lord and My God! This statement is ultimately meant for each one of us to make, as we look on Christ in love and faith and say to the world that He is truly alive and in love with each of us. May we have the grace to live as St. Thomas did, giving our live completely for Christ each day, responding with complete faith and trust in the Resurrected Christ.
Reading 1 Acts 2:42-47
They devoted themselves to the teaching of the apostles and to the communal life, to the breaking of bread and to the prayers. Awe came upon everyone, and many wonders and signs were done through the apostles. All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their property and possessions and divide them among all according to each one’s need. Every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple area and to breaking bread in their homes. They ate their meals with exultation and sincerity of heart, praising God and enjoying favor with all the people. And every day the Lord added to their number those who were being saved.
Reading 2 1 Peter 1:3-9
Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who in his great mercy gave us a new birth to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you who by the power of God are safeguarded through faith, to a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the final time. In this you rejoice, although now for a little while you may have to suffer through various trials, so that the genuineness of your faith, more precious than gold that is perishable even though tested by fire, may prove to be for praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ. Although you have not seen him you love him; even though you do not see him now yet believe in him, you rejoice with an indescribable and glorious joy, as you attain the goal of your faith, the salvation of your souls.
Gospel John 20:19-31
19*† On the evening of that first day of the week, when the doors were locked, where the disciples† were, for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood in their midst and said to them, “Peace be with you.”20*† When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. The disciples rejoiced when they saw the Lord. 21*† [Jesus] said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, so I send you.” 22*† And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the holy Spirit. 23*† Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.” 24 Thomas, called Didymus, one of the Twelve, was not with them when Jesus came. 25* So the other disciples said to him, “We have seen the Lord.” But he said to them, “Unless I see the mark of the nails in his hands and put my finger into the nail marks and put my hand into his side, I will not believe.” 26* Now a
week later his disciples were again inside and Thomas was with them. Jesus came, although the doors were locked, and stood in their midst and said, “Peace be with you.” 27 Then he said to Thomas, “Put your finger here and see my hands, and bring your hand and put it into my side, and do not be unbelieving, but believe.” 28*† Thomas answered and said to him, “My Lord and my God!” 29*† Jesus said to him, “Have you come to believe because you have seen me? Blessed are those who have not seen and have believed.” 30*† Now Jesus did many other signs in the presence of [his] disciples that are not written in this book. 31* But these are written that you may [come to] believe that Jesus is the Messiah, the Son of God, and that through this belief you may have life in his name.
Questions for Discussion:
1. What does St. John teach us in this passage about the physical characteristics of Jesus' resurrected body? List as many properties as you can.
2. Given the cruelty of Jesus' death, describe the reactions and joy of the disciples as Jesus showed Himself to them.
3. How is your faith similar and/or different to St. Thomas, who doubted the Resurrection?
4. What would convince you to believe that someone really came back from the dead?
A death certificate
Eyewitnesses
Firsthand knowledge of the person before and after
Pictures in the National Inquirer
5. Who does Thomas remind you of in this story?
A science teacher
An agnostic
An honest person who wanted to believe
A friend of mine
Myself
6. When you have struggles and doubts in your faith, what have you found helpful?
Going to the Bible
Talking it over with my priest
Sharing my struggles with my family and friends
Letting my family and friends share their struggles
Going ahead on faith
Spending time alone with God
Being encouraged by the faith of others
7. If you could ask Jesus one "Hard question” about your spiritual life, what would it be?
How do I deal with doubt or guilt?
What's wrong when I don't always feel like a Christian?
Where is God when I'm hurting?
Why can’t I seem to get closer to you?
8. How can you describe your spiritual life right now?
Full of doubt
Full of fake
Half-and-half
Increasing in doubt
Increasing its faith
Lord, thank you for being so real to me and for revealing your wonderful love to us. There are people in our lives who don’t know you, some who even resist your call. Yet we know how much you love them and how much you want them to know your love. Lord, please put in our minds the names of people you would like us to reach with your love. And, Lord, with those names, we ask you to give us wisdom about how to “fertilize” their hearts so they may bear abundant fruit. Amen
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Saturday, April 30, 2011
Friday, April 22, 2011
See and Believe
Readings for Easter Sunday April 24th 2011
Summary of the Gospel by YM Central
If you have seen Mel Gibson’s ‘The Passion of the Christ’, you can get a glimpse at the emotions the disciples must have felt after Jesus’ execution. No doubt all of them were stunned by the brutality that was inflicted on their Lord. They would have been depressed that the Lord was dead and in fear for their own lives. Many of the disciples, especially St. Peter, would have been experiencing the shame of abandoning Jesus. One of them, Judas, let that shame go all the way to despair, and so he chose to end his life in suicide. The Blessed Virgin Mary, even though her faith never wavered, was experiencing the anguish of the loss of her child. So the stage is set for the Third Day. In the most important event that ever happened in history, Jesus showed His power over death by conquering it through His resurrection. By this feat, Jesus guaranteed every word He ever said, every claim He every made about Himself, and every promise He ever made to us. What person every said, ‘I am the Way, the Truth and the Life’ and backed it up by rising (on his/her own power) from the dead? Only one person ever did – Jesus Christ. When Peter and ‘the other disciple’ (the speedier St. John) arrive at the tomb, they see it empty, with the burial cloths off to the side. This is their first glimpse of evidence of Jesus’ resurrection. We know, through the testimony of the Apostles, the martyrs who died for Jesus, and through the ministry of the Church, that Jesus is alive today. He defeated death and is in full control of everything. This raises an important question for each one of us: Why do we have so little faith in Jesus? If Jesus can conquer death, why do we struggle to trust Him with the smaller issues of our daily lives? Above all else, the celebration of Easter should call us to live lives of deep trust in Jesus. There is not a situation He can’t take care of; there is not a problem in our lives that He can’t overcome. The challenge for us this Easter is to allow the reality of the Resurrection to transform us into people of confidence in God. Why do most Catholics live their lives as if Jesus is still in the tomb, afraid to give Jesus full control of their lives? The Apostles were so transformed by this experience that most of them (except St. John) willingly allowed themselves to be killed for their testimony to the risen Christ. You and I are called to that very same witness. May we have the courage, no matter where we find ourselves, to give testimony to the resurrected Christ, to give up our attractions to this world, and to live lives in full confidence of God’s power.
Reading 1 Acts 10:34a, 37-43
34a Peter proceeded to speak and said: 37 “You know what has happened all over Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John preached, 38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power. He went about doing good and healing all those oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. 39 We are witnesses of all that he did both in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree. 40 This man God raised on the third day and granted that he be visible, 41 not to all the people, but to us, the witnesses chosen by God in advance, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42 He commissioned us to preach to the people and testify that he is the one appointed by God as judge of the living and the dead. 43 To him all the prophet’s bear witness that everyone who believes in him will receive forgiveness of sins through his name.”
Questions for discussion:
In the first reading from Acts, Peter says that, “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power. He went about doing good and healing all those oppressed by the devil” (Acts 10:38). Do you believe that through faith and Baptism, you also have been anointed with the Holy Spirit and power? Why or why not? If you do believe this, what keeps you from doing the same kinds of works as Jesus did? Also, what keeps you from telling others that “everyone who believes in him will receive forgiveness of sins through his name” (Acts 10:43).
Reading II Colossians 3:1-4
1 Brothers and sisters: If then you were raised with Christ, seek what is above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. 2 Think of what is above, not of what is on earth. 3 For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ your life appears, then you too will appear with him in glory.
Questions for discussion:
In the second reading from Colossians, we hear this startling proclamation, “you were raised with Christ” (Colossians 3:1). What do you think these words mean? What about the following words, “For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ. When Christ your life appears, then you too will appear with him in glory” (3:3-4). How can you allow the truth of these words to impact how you live out your day, especially when faced with temptations or difficult circumstances?
Gospel John 20:1-9
1 On the first day of the week, Mary of Magdala came to the tomb early in the morning, while it was still dark, and saw the stone removed from the tomb. 2 So she ran and went to Simon Peter and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved, and told them, “They have taken the Lord from the tomb, and we don’t know where they put him.” 3 So Peter and the other disciple went out and came to the tomb. 4 They both ran, but the other disciple ran faster than Peter and arrived at the tomb first; 5 he bent down and saw the burial cloths there, but did not go in. 6 When Simon Peter arrived after him, he went into the tomb and saw the burial cloths there, 7 and the cloth that had covered his head, not with the burial cloths but rolled up in a separate place.8 Then the other disciple also went in, the one who had arrived at the tomb first, and he saw and believed.9 For they did not yet understand the Scripture that he had to rise from the dead.
Questions for discussion:
1. The Gospel reading says that John the apostle “believed” when he saw the burial clothes, even though he “did not yet understand the Scriptures that he had to rise from the dead” (John 20:9). Why do you think John was able to believe without any real understanding of the resurrection of Christ? How would you describe your own belief in the resurrection of Christ? How does your “belief” make a difference in your every day life? How much should it?
2. List the physical evidence in this passage for the Resurrection. Why do you think St. John included this evidence? What arguments was he trying to defend?
3. Why is the Resurrection so important to Christianity? How does it give Christianity credibility? Why is it important to understand the Resurrection as a physical resuscitation of Jesus' dead body, and not either a hallucination, a hoax or the revival of an almost-dead body?
4. Where do you need the hope, peace, and freedom of the Resurrection in your life right now?
Enjoy the Good News of Jesus Christ, please pass them on….
Happy Easter, tommy
Sources cited: USCCB, www.ymcentral.com , The Word Among Us.
Summary of the Gospel by YM Central
If you have seen Mel Gibson’s ‘The Passion of the Christ’, you can get a glimpse at the emotions the disciples must have felt after Jesus’ execution. No doubt all of them were stunned by the brutality that was inflicted on their Lord. They would have been depressed that the Lord was dead and in fear for their own lives. Many of the disciples, especially St. Peter, would have been experiencing the shame of abandoning Jesus. One of them, Judas, let that shame go all the way to despair, and so he chose to end his life in suicide. The Blessed Virgin Mary, even though her faith never wavered, was experiencing the anguish of the loss of her child. So the stage is set for the Third Day. In the most important event that ever happened in history, Jesus showed His power over death by conquering it through His resurrection. By this feat, Jesus guaranteed every word He ever said, every claim He every made about Himself, and every promise He ever made to us. What person every said, ‘I am the Way, the Truth and the Life’ and backed it up by rising (on his/her own power) from the dead? Only one person ever did – Jesus Christ. When Peter and ‘the other disciple’ (the speedier St. John) arrive at the tomb, they see it empty, with the burial cloths off to the side. This is their first glimpse of evidence of Jesus’ resurrection. We know, through the testimony of the Apostles, the martyrs who died for Jesus, and through the ministry of the Church, that Jesus is alive today. He defeated death and is in full control of everything. This raises an important question for each one of us: Why do we have so little faith in Jesus? If Jesus can conquer death, why do we struggle to trust Him with the smaller issues of our daily lives? Above all else, the celebration of Easter should call us to live lives of deep trust in Jesus. There is not a situation He can’t take care of; there is not a problem in our lives that He can’t overcome. The challenge for us this Easter is to allow the reality of the Resurrection to transform us into people of confidence in God. Why do most Catholics live their lives as if Jesus is still in the tomb, afraid to give Jesus full control of their lives? The Apostles were so transformed by this experience that most of them (except St. John) willingly allowed themselves to be killed for their testimony to the risen Christ. You and I are called to that very same witness. May we have the courage, no matter where we find ourselves, to give testimony to the resurrected Christ, to give up our attractions to this world, and to live lives in full confidence of God’s power.
Reading 1 Acts 10:34a, 37-43
34a Peter proceeded to speak and said: 37 “You know what has happened all over Judea, beginning in Galilee after the baptism that John preached, 38 how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power. He went about doing good and healing all those oppressed by the devil, for God was with him. 39 We are witnesses of all that he did both in the country of the Jews and in Jerusalem. They put him to death by hanging him on a tree. 40 This man God raised on the third day and granted that he be visible, 41 not to all the people, but to us, the witnesses chosen by God in advance, who ate and drank with him after he rose from the dead. 42 He commissioned us to preach to the people and testify that he is the one appointed by God as judge of the living and the dead. 43 To him all the prophet’s bear witness that everyone who believes in him will receive forgiveness of sins through his name.”
Questions for discussion:
In the first reading from Acts, Peter says that, “God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power. He went about doing good and healing all those oppressed by the devil” (Acts 10:38). Do you believe that through faith and Baptism, you also have been anointed with the Holy Spirit and power? Why or why not? If you do believe this, what keeps you from doing the same kinds of works as Jesus did? Also, what keeps you from telling others that “everyone who believes in him will receive forgiveness of sins through his name” (Acts 10:43).
Reading II Colossians 3:1-4
1 Brothers and sisters: If then you were raised with Christ, seek what is above, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. 2 Think of what is above, not of what is on earth. 3 For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God. 4 When Christ your life appears, then you too will appear with him in glory.
Questions for discussion:
In the second reading from Colossians, we hear this startling proclamation, “you were raised with Christ” (Colossians 3:1). What do you think these words mean? What about the following words, “For you have died and your life is hidden with Christ. When Christ your life appears, then you too will appear with him in glory” (3:3-4). How can you allow the truth of these words to impact how you live out your day, especially when faced with temptations or difficult circumstances?
Gospel John 20:1-9
1 On the first day of the week, Mary of Magdala came to the tomb early in the morning, while it was still dark, and saw the stone removed from the tomb. 2 So she ran and went to Simon Peter and to the other disciple whom Jesus loved, and told them, “They have taken the Lord from the tomb, and we don’t know where they put him.” 3 So Peter and the other disciple went out and came to the tomb. 4 They both ran, but the other disciple ran faster than Peter and arrived at the tomb first; 5 he bent down and saw the burial cloths there, but did not go in. 6 When Simon Peter arrived after him, he went into the tomb and saw the burial cloths there, 7 and the cloth that had covered his head, not with the burial cloths but rolled up in a separate place.8 Then the other disciple also went in, the one who had arrived at the tomb first, and he saw and believed.9 For they did not yet understand the Scripture that he had to rise from the dead.
Questions for discussion:
1. The Gospel reading says that John the apostle “believed” when he saw the burial clothes, even though he “did not yet understand the Scriptures that he had to rise from the dead” (John 20:9). Why do you think John was able to believe without any real understanding of the resurrection of Christ? How would you describe your own belief in the resurrection of Christ? How does your “belief” make a difference in your every day life? How much should it?
2. List the physical evidence in this passage for the Resurrection. Why do you think St. John included this evidence? What arguments was he trying to defend?
3. Why is the Resurrection so important to Christianity? How does it give Christianity credibility? Why is it important to understand the Resurrection as a physical resuscitation of Jesus' dead body, and not either a hallucination, a hoax or the revival of an almost-dead body?
4. Where do you need the hope, peace, and freedom of the Resurrection in your life right now?
Enjoy the Good News of Jesus Christ, please pass them on….
Happy Easter, tommy
Sources cited: USCCB, www.ymcentral.com , The Word Among Us.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Palm Sunday of the Lord’s Passion, April 17, 2011
Readings for Sunday April 17, 2011
Jesus’ Prayer
When we see Jesus going off into the hills at night to pray it seems to show that for Jesus, prayer was something so intimate and personal that He had to be by Himself, away from everyone, in order to properly communicate with His Father. He required extended quiet time to pour out His heart to Him, and to listen to His response. We can easily picture Him in the hills outside Capernaum or wherever, kneeling down, sitting back on His heels, resting His hands in His lap, closing His eyes and all of Heaven opening before His mind as He enters His Fathers presence.
“Father, I am so glad to be with you tonight. I have so much to tell you. When I began my mission, Father, people flocked to me. They were impressed with the healings and the comfort I gave them. They were also touched by my words. I could tell. I watched their faces when I spoke and I saw tears in their eyes, especially when I talked about you, Father. They seemed surprised when I said your kind and compassionate, and understanding of their weaknesses, and the heavy burdens they carry. The crowds kept growing each day, lately, however, things are changing, Father. When I speak I notice a questioning look on many faces, as if they do not really believe. When I talk about the Kingdom of Heaven, they think of David's kingdom and battles with Roman legions. I know they were hoping I was their Messiah, and would one day declare myself and lead them into battle. Now they realize I am not interested in their worldly dreams, or their thousand years of material prosperity. When I talk about storing up treasures in heaven, they think of gold and silver pieces and money in banks. They look at me lately with sadness in their eyes. The other day, Father, I tried to prepare them for my sharing with them our life. I multiplied the loaves and fishes and fed them miraculously. They were impressed, Father. In fact, they wanted to take me by force and make me king. Judas was already to furnish the crown, but I escaped and fled up into the hills. I sent the apostles across the lake, so they could get away from them. I know you know all these things, Father, but I have to share them with you, and tell you all that I am going through. I have to do it this way because I am human and I feel a need to share with someone I love.”
“When I met the same crowd the next day on the other shore, I challenged them to look more deeply into themselves. I promised them my own life as the food of their souls. When I told them I would give them my flesh as real food, they looked at me in amazement and could not believe what they had heard. When they questioned me, I repeated in even stronger words that I meant what I said. 'Unless you eat my flesh and drink my blood, you cannot have life in you.' They grunted, 'This is a hard saying, who can accept it?' Then they turned and walked away. Judas' faith also crumbled that day, and I could see evil entering into him as his worldly dreams were shattered.”
"I also noticed, Father that Sadducees and Herodians have been teaming up with the Pharisees. They had always been the bitterest of enemies, now they are cozy with one another. I know that they are plotting to destroy me. I can see it coming. I am afraid, Father, I know I should not be, but I have laid down the shield of my divinity, and I am vulnerable. I am really frightened. I can see where it is all leading. The crowds are getting thinner, too, as the people can see the authorities are not happy with me, or with what I have to say. The people are afraid of the priest and their leaders, and are shunning me, except to bring their dying. I cure them all, Father, even though I know so many of them are too frightened to make a commitment to me for fear of being punished by the priest.”
"Father, when I began my mission, I had so many dreams, so many things I wanted to accomplish for you. I thought I understood human nature, and would sway the people to come back to you. But it is not working that way. It is not that easy. They listened only halfheartedly. I am too spiritual for them, They want a worldly kingdom, all I have to offer is your kingdom of truth and goodness and the promise that they will one day live with you forever in your home, I thought, Father , that I could bring everyone back into your love, and tear the whole world away from satan and present it back to you, but I now realize I cannot do it, and I feel I have failed, Father, I never knew failure. Now I understand the pain humans experience when they fail, when they feel they have failed in their marriages, and failed in being able to support their families, and to protect their children from harm. I share their sense of failure. Oh, I know I have not really failed in what I intended to accomplish in coming here, to save the world through my suffering and death, but there were so many other things that I wanted to accomplish for you, Father, now I realize these things are beyond me. I cannot violate people’s freedom and force them to do my bidding. Perhaps in time they will understand, but it will be long after I have left. I only wish that I could have done more for you, Father. I cannot shake these bad feelings. I am frightened. Stay near me, Father. I know you are always near. Sometimes I do not feel it. I can see so clearly the things that are about to take place in Jerusalem. I see it all happening so quickly. I know you are always with me, and I have the strength of your presence, you are my strength, Father help me, and be by my side now that the end is near. I need you more than ever. Also, Father, help my mother. She will bear the pain of everything I suffer, she is so good. You could not have given me a more beautiful person to be my mother; surely her heart will be pierced by the sword Simeon prophesied so long ago. She is so good and so innocent, and worries about me so much, she has been such a comfort to me all my life. Strengthen my apostles also, Father. They are so frightfully human, but their hearts are good. Help them through all this. And Father, forgive Judas I know what he is going to do. He is not a bad person, just so much in love with money and needs so much to be recognized as important. Good night, Father. My heart is bounded to your will. I am yours to use as you wish, but stay near me with your strength."
At the Procession with Palms
Matthew 21:1-11
1 When Jesus and the disciples drew near Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, 2 saying to them, “Go into the village opposite you, and immediately you will find an ass tethered, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them here to me. 3 And if anyone should say anything to you, reply, ‘The master has need of them.’ Then he will send them at once.” 4 This happened so that what had been spoken through the prophet might be fulfilled:
5 Say to daughter Zion,
“Behold, your king comes to you,
meek and riding on an ass,
and on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.”
6 The disciples went and did as Jesus had ordered them. 7 They brought the ass and the colt and laid their cloaks over them, and he sat upon them. 8 The very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and strewed them on the road. 9 The crowds preceding him and those following kept crying out and saying: “Hosanna to the Son of David; blessed is the he who comes in the name of the Lord; hosanna in the highest.” 10 And when he entered Jerusalem the whole city was shaken and asked, “Who is this?”11 And the crowds replied, “This is Jesus the prophet, from Nazareth in Galilee.”
Questions for Discussion:
1. To what town has Jesus come? Why?
2. Jesus comes on a donkey and not a stallion. What does that portray?
3. What kind of kingdom and king were they expecting?
4. What difference does it make to you that Jesus is a gentle king, and not like the king, many expected?
5. Does Jesus’ humility work for you? why or why not?
Reading 1 Isaiah 50:4-7
4 The Lord GOD has given me a well-trained tongue, that I might know how to speak to the weary a word that will rouse them. Morning after morning he opens my ear that I may hear; 5 and I have not rebelled, have not turned back. 6 I gave my back to those who beat me, my cheeks to those who plucked my beard; my face I did not shield from buffets and spitting. 7 The Lord GOD is my help, therefore I am not disgraced; I have set my face like flint, knowing that I shall not be put to shame.
Questions for Discussion:
1. How would you describe your current relationship with God?
2. What would it mean for you to start your day by listening to God? How might you do so?
3. Have you ever been verbally or physically abused because of your faith? How did you respond?
Reading 2 Philippians 2:6-11
6 Christ Jesus, though he was in the form of God,
did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. 7 Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness; and found human in appearance, 8 he humbled himself, becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 Because of this, God greatly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Questions for Discussion:
1. What does it mean to regard someone “more important” that yourself?
2. How does humility differ from being a doormat?
3. What do you think it was like for Jesus to leave Heaven and become human? To take on himself all the sins of mankind?
4. How do you balance meeting the needs of others with meeting your own needs?
Gospel Matthew 26:14- 27:66
14 Then one of the Twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests
15 and said, "What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?" They paid him thirty pieces of silver,
16 and from that time on he looked for an opportunity to hand him over.
17 On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the disciples approached Jesus and said, "Where do you want us to prepare for you to eat the Passover?"
18 He said, "Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, 'The teacher says, "My appointed time draws near; in your house I shall celebrate the Passover with my disciples."'"
19 The disciples then did as Jesus had ordered, and prepared the Passover.
20 When it was evening, he reclined at table with the Twelve.
21 And while they were eating, he said, "Amen, I say to you, one of you will betray me."
22 Deeply distressed at this, they began to say to him one after another, "Surely it is not I, Lord?"
23 He said in reply, "He who has dipped his hand into the dish with me is the one who will betray me.
24 The Son of Man indeed goes, as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed. It would be better for that man if he had never been born."
25 Then Judas, his betrayer, said in reply, "Surely it is not I, Rabbi?" He answered, "You have said so."
26 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and giving it to his disciples said, "Take and eat; this is my body."
27 Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you,
28 for this is my blood of the covenant, which will be shed on behalf of many for the forgiveness of sins.
29 I tell you, from now on I shall not drink this fruit of the vine until the day when I drink it with you new in the kingdom of my Father."
30 Then, after singing a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.
31 Then Jesus said to them, "This night all of you will have your faith in me shaken, for it is written: 'I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be dispersed';
32 but after I have been raised up, I shall go before you to Galilee."
33 Peter said to him in reply, "Though all may have their faith in you shaken, mine will never be."
34 Jesus said to him, "Amen, I say to you, this very night before the cock crows, you will deny me three times."
35 Peter said to him, "Even though I should have to die with you, I will not deny you." And all the disciples spoke likewise.
36 Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples, "Sit here while I go over there and pray."
37 He took along Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to feel sorrow and distress.
38 Then he said to them, "My soul is sorrowful even to death. Remain here and keep watch with me."
39 He advanced a little and fell prostrate in prayer, saying, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet, not as I will, but as you will."
40 When he returned to his disciples he found them asleep. He said to Peter, "So you could not keep watch with me for one hour?
41 Watch and pray that you may not undergo the test. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak."
42 Withdrawing a second time, he prayed again, "My Father, if it is not possible that this cup pass without my drinking it, your will be done!"
43 Then he returned once more and found them asleep, for they could not keep their eyes open.
44 He left them and withdrew again and prayed a third time, saying the same thing again.
45 Then he returned to his disciples and said to them, "Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? Behold, the hour is at hand when the Son of Man is to be handed over to sinners.
46 Get up, let us go. Look, my betrayer is at hand."
47 While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived, accompanied by a large crowd, with swords and clubs, who had come from the chief priests and the elders of the people.
48 His betrayer had arranged a sign with them, saying, "The man I shall kiss is the one; arrest him."
49 Immediately he went over to Jesus and said, "Hail, Rabbi!" and he kissed him.
50 Jesus answered him, "Friend, do what you have come for." Then stepping forward they laid hands on Jesus and arrested him.
51 And behold, one of those who accompanied Jesus put his hand to his sword, drew it, and struck the high priest's servant, cutting off his ear.
52 Then Jesus said to him, "Put your sword back into its sheath, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword.
53 Do you think that I cannot call upon my Father and he will not provide me at this moment with more than twelve legions of angels?
54 But then how would the scriptures be fulfilled which say that it must come to pass in this way?"
55 At that hour Jesus said to the crowds, "Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to seize me? Day after day I sat teaching in the temple area, yet you did not arrest me.
56 But all this has come to pass that the writings of the prophets may be fulfilled." Then all the disciples left him and fled.
57 Those who had arrested Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled.
58 Peter was following him at a distance as far as the high priest's courtyard, and going inside he sat down with the servants to see the outcome.
59 The chief priests and the entire Sanhedrin kept trying to obtain false testimony against Jesus in order to put him to death,
60 but they found none, though many false witnesses came forward. Finally two came forward
61 who stated, "This man said, 'I can destroy the temple of God and within three days rebuild it.'"
62 The high priest rose and addressed him, "Have you no answer? What are these men testifying against you?"
63 But Jesus was silent. Then the high priest said to him, "I order you to tell us under oath before the living God whether you are the Messiah, the Son of God."
64 Jesus said to him in reply, "You have said so. But I tell you: From now on you will see 'the Son of Man seated at the right hand of the Power' and 'coming on the clouds of heaven.'"
65 Then the high priest tore his robes and said, "He has blasphemed! What further need have we of witnesses? You have now heard the blasphemy;
66 what is your opinion?" They said in reply, "He deserves to die!"
67 Then they spat in his face and struck him, while some slapped him,
68 saying, "Prophesy for us, Messiah: who is it that struck you?"
69 Now Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard. One of the maids came over to him and said, "You too were with Jesus the Galilean."
70 But he denied it in front of everyone, saying, "I do not know what you are talking about!"
71 As he went out to the gate, another girl saw him and said to those who were there, "This man was with Jesus the Nazorean."
72 Again he denied it with an oath, "I do not know the man!"
73 A little later the bystanders came over and said to Peter, "Surely you too are one of them; even your speech gives you away."
74 At that he began to curse and to swear, "I do not know the man." And immediately a cock crowed.
75 Then Peter remembered the word that Jesus had spoken: "Before the cock crows you will deny me three times." He went out and began to weep bitterly.
27:1 When it was morning, all the chief priests and the elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death.
2 They bound him, led him away, and handed him over to Pilate, the governor.
3 Then Judas, his betrayer, seeing that Jesus had been condemned, deeply regretted what he had done. He returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders,
4 saying, "I have sinned in betraying innocent blood." They said, "What is that to us? Look to it yourself."
5 Flinging the money into the temple, he departed and went off and hanged himself.
6 The chief priests gathered up the money, but said, "It is not lawful to deposit this in the temple treasury, for it is the price of blood."
7 After consultation, they used it to buy the potter's field as a burial place for foreigners.
8 That is why that field even today is called the Field of Blood.
9 Then was fulfilled what had been said through Jeremiah the prophet, "And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the value of a man with a price on his head, a price set by some of the Israelites,
10 and they paid it out for the potter's field just as the Lord had commanded me."
11 Now Jesus stood before the governor, and he questioned him, "Are you the king of the Jews?" Jesus said, "You say so."
12 And when he was accused by the chief priests and elders, he made no answer.
13 Then Pilate said to him, "Do you not hear how many things they are testifying against you?"
14 But he did not answer him one word, so that the governor was greatly amazed.
15 Now on the occasion of the feast the governor was accustomed to release to the crowd one prisoner whom they wished.
16 And at that time they had a notorious prisoner called (Jesus) Barabbas.
17 So when they had assembled, Pilate said to them, "Which one do you want me to release to you, (Jesus) Barabbas, or Jesus called Messiah?"
18 For he knew that it was out of envy that they had handed him over.
19 While he was still seated on the bench, his wife sent him a message, "Have nothing to do with that righteous man. I suffered much in a dream today because of him."
20 The chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowds to ask for Barabbas but to destroy Jesus.
21 The governor said to them in reply, "Which of the two do you want me to release to you?" They answered, "Barabbas!"
22 Pilate said to them, "Then what shall I do with Jesus called Messiah?" They all said, "Let him be crucified!"
23 But he said, "Why? What evil has he done?" They only shouted the louder, "Let him be crucified!"
24 When Pilate saw that he was not succeeding at all, but that a riot was breaking out instead, he took water and washed his hands in the sight of the crowd, saying, "I am innocent of this man's blood. Look to it yourselves."
25 And the whole people said in reply, "His blood be upon us and upon our children."
26 Then he released Barabbas to them, but after he had Jesus scourged, he handed him over to be crucified.
27 Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus inside the praetorium and gathered the whole cohort around him.
28 They stripped off his clothes and threw a scarlet military cloak about him.
29 Weaving a crown out of thorns, they placed it on his head, and a reed in his right hand. And kneeling before him, they mocked him, saying, "Hail, King of the Jews!"
30 They spat upon him and took the reed and kept striking him on the head.
31 And when they had mocked him, they stripped him of the cloak, dressed him in his own clothes, and led him off to crucify him.
32 As they were going out, they met a Cyrenian named Simon; this man they pressed into service to carry his cross.
33 And when they came to a place called Golgotha (which means Place of the Skull),
34 they gave Jesus wine to drink mixed with gall. But when he had tasted it, he refused to drink.
35 After they had crucified him, they divided his garments by casting lots;
36 then they sat down and kept watch over him there.
37 And they placed over his head the written charge against him: This is Jesus, the King of the Jews.
38 Two revolutionaries were crucified with him, one on his right and the other on his left.
39 Those passing by reviled him, shaking their heads
40 and saying, "You who would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, save yourself, if you are the Son of God, (and) come down from the cross!"
41 Likewise the chief priests with the scribes and elders mocked him and said,
42 "He saved others; he cannot save himself. So he is the king of Israel! Let him come down from the cross now, and we will believe in him.
43 He trusted in God; let him deliver him now if he wants him. For he said, 'I am the Son of God.'"
44 The revolutionaries who were crucified with him also kept abusing him in the same way.
45 From noon onward, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon.
46 And about three o'clock Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?" which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"
47 Some of the bystanders who heard it said, "This one is calling for Elijah."
48 Immediately one of them ran to get a sponge; he soaked it in wine, and putting it on a reed, gave it to him to drink.
49 But the rest said, "Wait, let us see if Elijah comes to save him."
50 But Jesus cried out again in a loud voice, and gave up his spirit.
51 And behold, the veil of the sanctuary was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth quaked, rocks were split,
52 tombs were opened, and the bodies of many saints who had fallen asleep were raised.
53 And coming forth from their tombs after his resurrection, they entered the holy city and appeared to many.
54 The centurion and the men with him who were keeping watch over Jesus feared greatly when they saw the earthquake and all that was happening, and they said, "Truly, this was the Son of God!"
55 There were many women there, looking on from a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to him.
56 Among them were Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of the sons of Zebedee.
57 When it was evening, there came a rich man from Arimathea named Joseph, who was himself a disciple of Jesus.
58 He went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus; then Pilate ordered it to be handed over.
59 Taking the body, Joseph wrapped it (in) clean linen
60 and laid it in his new tomb that he had hewn in the rock. Then he rolled a huge stone across the entrance to the tomb and departed.
61 But Mary Magdalene and the other Mary remained sitting there, facing the tomb.
62 The next day, the one following the day of preparation, the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered before Pilate
63 and said, "Sir, we remember that this impostor while still alive said, 'After three days I will be raised up.'
64 Give orders, then, that the grave be secured until the third day, lest his disciples come and steal him and say to the people, 'He has been raised from the dead.' This last imposture would be worse than the first."
65 Pilate said to them, "The guard is yours; go secure it as best you can."
66 So they went and secured the tomb by fixing a seal to the stone and setting the guard.
Questions for Discussion:
1. What is the closest you have come to deserting Christ?
2. What do you suppose was the hardest thing about this event for Jesus?
3. Why did the disciples desert Jesus?
4. Have you ever gone along with the crowd only to regret it later?
5. If Jesus came today, who would “crucify’ him? What would be the charge against him? Where would you be?
Summary of the Gospel from YMCentral
The intense drama of the Passion of our Lord is a story that speaks for itself: Because of its power, there is little that can be added to explain the story. Our focus this week is simply to allow you to meditate on it for yourself. As you do that, please keep in mind the following two key characters:
1. Judas: St. Matthew makes it a point to show us the role of Judas as Jesus’ betrayer, beginning with his association with the chief priests. As far as Scripture is concerned, Judas was only interested in the money: There was no mention of Judas either being deceived or having another motive. Judas even denies to Jesus in front of all the Apostles at the Last Supper that he will betray Him, yet all along Judas was searching for the right time to hand Jesus over to the authorities. Jesus makes it clear as to the future of Judas: “Better for that man if he had never been born.” Yet Judas, upon seeing that Jesus had been condemned, “deeply regretted what he had done.” Was this a true conversion of heart for Judas? Does this show us that Judas repented? Of course, only God knows, but the words of Jesus would lead us to believe otherwise.
2. St. Peter: While the other Gospels add specific details about St. Peter’s role during Our Lord’s Passion, St. Matthew highlights a couple of details about St. Peter. First, St. Peter, like Judas, turns his back on Jesus. The Lord tells St. Peter to his face that he will deny Him, yet St. Peter tries to stand up for his loyalty to Jesus. St. Peter is pulled aside (along with St. James and St. John) to be with Jesus during His Agony in the Garden. Instead of supporting Jesus, St. Peter falls asleep. Finally, Jesus prediction comes true and St. Peter denies Jesus three times.
What are the similarities and differences between Judas and St. Peter? We see that Judas actively sought to ‘sell out’ Jesus, yet St. Peter was not looking to deny Jesus. Both St. Peter and Judas denounced that they would ever do anything against Jesus, and both of them ‘ate’ their words. Both Judas and St. Peter ‘caved’ to the pressure put on them by others. In the end, Judas deals with his betrayal by committing suicide, while St. Peter deals with his denials by repenting, and going back to lead the Apostles. All of us struggle with turning our back on Jesus when the going gets tough: Our call this Palm Sunday is to ask the Lord for the grace to follow Him ‘24:7’, no matter the struggle, no matter the cost. May we also, like St. Peter, turn to Jesus for forgiveness if we have failed Him, and receive the grace to be strong and follow Jesus once again.
Discussion Questions
1. As you read this passage, list any elements from the story that appear ‘new’ to you. Share that in your group.
2. List the emotional and physical hardships that Jesus endured.
3. Of all the people involved in this passage, which one stands out the most for you? Why? How do you relate to that person?
Sources cited: USCCB, NAB Catholic Bible, www.ymcentral.com , A Portrait of Jesus by Joseph F Girzone
Jesus’ Prayer
When we see Jesus going off into the hills at night to pray it seems to show that for Jesus, prayer was something so intimate and personal that He had to be by Himself, away from everyone, in order to properly communicate with His Father. He required extended quiet time to pour out His heart to Him, and to listen to His response. We can easily picture Him in the hills outside Capernaum or wherever, kneeling down, sitting back on His heels, resting His hands in His lap, closing His eyes and all of Heaven opening before His mind as He enters His Fathers presence.
“Father, I am so glad to be with you tonight. I have so much to tell you. When I began my mission, Father, people flocked to me. They were impressed with the healings and the comfort I gave them. They were also touched by my words. I could tell. I watched their faces when I spoke and I saw tears in their eyes, especially when I talked about you, Father. They seemed surprised when I said your kind and compassionate, and understanding of their weaknesses, and the heavy burdens they carry. The crowds kept growing each day, lately, however, things are changing, Father. When I speak I notice a questioning look on many faces, as if they do not really believe. When I talk about the Kingdom of Heaven, they think of David's kingdom and battles with Roman legions. I know they were hoping I was their Messiah, and would one day declare myself and lead them into battle. Now they realize I am not interested in their worldly dreams, or their thousand years of material prosperity. When I talk about storing up treasures in heaven, they think of gold and silver pieces and money in banks. They look at me lately with sadness in their eyes. The other day, Father, I tried to prepare them for my sharing with them our life. I multiplied the loaves and fishes and fed them miraculously. They were impressed, Father. In fact, they wanted to take me by force and make me king. Judas was already to furnish the crown, but I escaped and fled up into the hills. I sent the apostles across the lake, so they could get away from them. I know you know all these things, Father, but I have to share them with you, and tell you all that I am going through. I have to do it this way because I am human and I feel a need to share with someone I love.”
“When I met the same crowd the next day on the other shore, I challenged them to look more deeply into themselves. I promised them my own life as the food of their souls. When I told them I would give them my flesh as real food, they looked at me in amazement and could not believe what they had heard. When they questioned me, I repeated in even stronger words that I meant what I said. 'Unless you eat my flesh and drink my blood, you cannot have life in you.' They grunted, 'This is a hard saying, who can accept it?' Then they turned and walked away. Judas' faith also crumbled that day, and I could see evil entering into him as his worldly dreams were shattered.”
"I also noticed, Father that Sadducees and Herodians have been teaming up with the Pharisees. They had always been the bitterest of enemies, now they are cozy with one another. I know that they are plotting to destroy me. I can see it coming. I am afraid, Father, I know I should not be, but I have laid down the shield of my divinity, and I am vulnerable. I am really frightened. I can see where it is all leading. The crowds are getting thinner, too, as the people can see the authorities are not happy with me, or with what I have to say. The people are afraid of the priest and their leaders, and are shunning me, except to bring their dying. I cure them all, Father, even though I know so many of them are too frightened to make a commitment to me for fear of being punished by the priest.”
"Father, when I began my mission, I had so many dreams, so many things I wanted to accomplish for you. I thought I understood human nature, and would sway the people to come back to you. But it is not working that way. It is not that easy. They listened only halfheartedly. I am too spiritual for them, They want a worldly kingdom, all I have to offer is your kingdom of truth and goodness and the promise that they will one day live with you forever in your home, I thought, Father , that I could bring everyone back into your love, and tear the whole world away from satan and present it back to you, but I now realize I cannot do it, and I feel I have failed, Father, I never knew failure. Now I understand the pain humans experience when they fail, when they feel they have failed in their marriages, and failed in being able to support their families, and to protect their children from harm. I share their sense of failure. Oh, I know I have not really failed in what I intended to accomplish in coming here, to save the world through my suffering and death, but there were so many other things that I wanted to accomplish for you, Father, now I realize these things are beyond me. I cannot violate people’s freedom and force them to do my bidding. Perhaps in time they will understand, but it will be long after I have left. I only wish that I could have done more for you, Father. I cannot shake these bad feelings. I am frightened. Stay near me, Father. I know you are always near. Sometimes I do not feel it. I can see so clearly the things that are about to take place in Jerusalem. I see it all happening so quickly. I know you are always with me, and I have the strength of your presence, you are my strength, Father help me, and be by my side now that the end is near. I need you more than ever. Also, Father, help my mother. She will bear the pain of everything I suffer, she is so good. You could not have given me a more beautiful person to be my mother; surely her heart will be pierced by the sword Simeon prophesied so long ago. She is so good and so innocent, and worries about me so much, she has been such a comfort to me all my life. Strengthen my apostles also, Father. They are so frightfully human, but their hearts are good. Help them through all this. And Father, forgive Judas I know what he is going to do. He is not a bad person, just so much in love with money and needs so much to be recognized as important. Good night, Father. My heart is bounded to your will. I am yours to use as you wish, but stay near me with your strength."
At the Procession with Palms
Matthew 21:1-11
1 When Jesus and the disciples drew near Jerusalem and came to Bethphage on the Mount of Olives, Jesus sent two disciples, 2 saying to them, “Go into the village opposite you, and immediately you will find an ass tethered, and a colt with her. Untie them and bring them here to me. 3 And if anyone should say anything to you, reply, ‘The master has need of them.’ Then he will send them at once.” 4 This happened so that what had been spoken through the prophet might be fulfilled:
5 Say to daughter Zion,
“Behold, your king comes to you,
meek and riding on an ass,
and on a colt, the foal of a beast of burden.”
6 The disciples went and did as Jesus had ordered them. 7 They brought the ass and the colt and laid their cloaks over them, and he sat upon them. 8 The very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut branches from the trees and strewed them on the road. 9 The crowds preceding him and those following kept crying out and saying: “Hosanna to the Son of David; blessed is the he who comes in the name of the Lord; hosanna in the highest.” 10 And when he entered Jerusalem the whole city was shaken and asked, “Who is this?”11 And the crowds replied, “This is Jesus the prophet, from Nazareth in Galilee.”
Questions for Discussion:
1. To what town has Jesus come? Why?
2. Jesus comes on a donkey and not a stallion. What does that portray?
3. What kind of kingdom and king were they expecting?
4. What difference does it make to you that Jesus is a gentle king, and not like the king, many expected?
5. Does Jesus’ humility work for you? why or why not?
Reading 1 Isaiah 50:4-7
4 The Lord GOD has given me a well-trained tongue, that I might know how to speak to the weary a word that will rouse them. Morning after morning he opens my ear that I may hear; 5 and I have not rebelled, have not turned back. 6 I gave my back to those who beat me, my cheeks to those who plucked my beard; my face I did not shield from buffets and spitting. 7 The Lord GOD is my help, therefore I am not disgraced; I have set my face like flint, knowing that I shall not be put to shame.
Questions for Discussion:
1. How would you describe your current relationship with God?
2. What would it mean for you to start your day by listening to God? How might you do so?
3. Have you ever been verbally or physically abused because of your faith? How did you respond?
Reading 2 Philippians 2:6-11
6 Christ Jesus, though he was in the form of God,
did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. 7 Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness; and found human in appearance, 8 he humbled himself, becoming obedient to the point of death, even death on a cross. 9 Because of this, God greatly exalted him and bestowed on him the name which is above every name, 10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bend, of those in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.
Questions for Discussion:
1. What does it mean to regard someone “more important” that yourself?
2. How does humility differ from being a doormat?
3. What do you think it was like for Jesus to leave Heaven and become human? To take on himself all the sins of mankind?
4. How do you balance meeting the needs of others with meeting your own needs?
Gospel Matthew 26:14- 27:66
14 Then one of the Twelve, who was called Judas Iscariot, went to the chief priests
15 and said, "What are you willing to give me if I hand him over to you?" They paid him thirty pieces of silver,
16 and from that time on he looked for an opportunity to hand him over.
17 On the first day of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the disciples approached Jesus and said, "Where do you want us to prepare for you to eat the Passover?"
18 He said, "Go into the city to a certain man and tell him, 'The teacher says, "My appointed time draws near; in your house I shall celebrate the Passover with my disciples."'"
19 The disciples then did as Jesus had ordered, and prepared the Passover.
20 When it was evening, he reclined at table with the Twelve.
21 And while they were eating, he said, "Amen, I say to you, one of you will betray me."
22 Deeply distressed at this, they began to say to him one after another, "Surely it is not I, Lord?"
23 He said in reply, "He who has dipped his hand into the dish with me is the one who will betray me.
24 The Son of Man indeed goes, as it is written of him, but woe to that man by whom the Son of Man is betrayed. It would be better for that man if he had never been born."
25 Then Judas, his betrayer, said in reply, "Surely it is not I, Rabbi?" He answered, "You have said so."
26 While they were eating, Jesus took bread, said the blessing, broke it, and giving it to his disciples said, "Take and eat; this is my body."
27 Then he took a cup, gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, "Drink from it, all of you,
28 for this is my blood of the covenant, which will be shed on behalf of many for the forgiveness of sins.
29 I tell you, from now on I shall not drink this fruit of the vine until the day when I drink it with you new in the kingdom of my Father."
30 Then, after singing a hymn, they went out to the Mount of Olives.
31 Then Jesus said to them, "This night all of you will have your faith in me shaken, for it is written: 'I will strike the shepherd, and the sheep of the flock will be dispersed';
32 but after I have been raised up, I shall go before you to Galilee."
33 Peter said to him in reply, "Though all may have their faith in you shaken, mine will never be."
34 Jesus said to him, "Amen, I say to you, this very night before the cock crows, you will deny me three times."
35 Peter said to him, "Even though I should have to die with you, I will not deny you." And all the disciples spoke likewise.
36 Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and he said to his disciples, "Sit here while I go over there and pray."
37 He took along Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and began to feel sorrow and distress.
38 Then he said to them, "My soul is sorrowful even to death. Remain here and keep watch with me."
39 He advanced a little and fell prostrate in prayer, saying, "My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me; yet, not as I will, but as you will."
40 When he returned to his disciples he found them asleep. He said to Peter, "So you could not keep watch with me for one hour?
41 Watch and pray that you may not undergo the test. The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak."
42 Withdrawing a second time, he prayed again, "My Father, if it is not possible that this cup pass without my drinking it, your will be done!"
43 Then he returned once more and found them asleep, for they could not keep their eyes open.
44 He left them and withdrew again and prayed a third time, saying the same thing again.
45 Then he returned to his disciples and said to them, "Are you still sleeping and taking your rest? Behold, the hour is at hand when the Son of Man is to be handed over to sinners.
46 Get up, let us go. Look, my betrayer is at hand."
47 While he was still speaking, Judas, one of the Twelve, arrived, accompanied by a large crowd, with swords and clubs, who had come from the chief priests and the elders of the people.
48 His betrayer had arranged a sign with them, saying, "The man I shall kiss is the one; arrest him."
49 Immediately he went over to Jesus and said, "Hail, Rabbi!" and he kissed him.
50 Jesus answered him, "Friend, do what you have come for." Then stepping forward they laid hands on Jesus and arrested him.
51 And behold, one of those who accompanied Jesus put his hand to his sword, drew it, and struck the high priest's servant, cutting off his ear.
52 Then Jesus said to him, "Put your sword back into its sheath, for all who take the sword will perish by the sword.
53 Do you think that I cannot call upon my Father and he will not provide me at this moment with more than twelve legions of angels?
54 But then how would the scriptures be fulfilled which say that it must come to pass in this way?"
55 At that hour Jesus said to the crowds, "Have you come out as against a robber, with swords and clubs to seize me? Day after day I sat teaching in the temple area, yet you did not arrest me.
56 But all this has come to pass that the writings of the prophets may be fulfilled." Then all the disciples left him and fled.
57 Those who had arrested Jesus led him away to Caiaphas the high priest, where the scribes and the elders were assembled.
58 Peter was following him at a distance as far as the high priest's courtyard, and going inside he sat down with the servants to see the outcome.
59 The chief priests and the entire Sanhedrin kept trying to obtain false testimony against Jesus in order to put him to death,
60 but they found none, though many false witnesses came forward. Finally two came forward
61 who stated, "This man said, 'I can destroy the temple of God and within three days rebuild it.'"
62 The high priest rose and addressed him, "Have you no answer? What are these men testifying against you?"
63 But Jesus was silent. Then the high priest said to him, "I order you to tell us under oath before the living God whether you are the Messiah, the Son of God."
64 Jesus said to him in reply, "You have said so. But I tell you: From now on you will see 'the Son of Man seated at the right hand of the Power' and 'coming on the clouds of heaven.'"
65 Then the high priest tore his robes and said, "He has blasphemed! What further need have we of witnesses? You have now heard the blasphemy;
66 what is your opinion?" They said in reply, "He deserves to die!"
67 Then they spat in his face and struck him, while some slapped him,
68 saying, "Prophesy for us, Messiah: who is it that struck you?"
69 Now Peter was sitting outside in the courtyard. One of the maids came over to him and said, "You too were with Jesus the Galilean."
70 But he denied it in front of everyone, saying, "I do not know what you are talking about!"
71 As he went out to the gate, another girl saw him and said to those who were there, "This man was with Jesus the Nazorean."
72 Again he denied it with an oath, "I do not know the man!"
73 A little later the bystanders came over and said to Peter, "Surely you too are one of them; even your speech gives you away."
74 At that he began to curse and to swear, "I do not know the man." And immediately a cock crowed.
75 Then Peter remembered the word that Jesus had spoken: "Before the cock crows you will deny me three times." He went out and began to weep bitterly.
27:1 When it was morning, all the chief priests and the elders of the people took counsel against Jesus to put him to death.
2 They bound him, led him away, and handed him over to Pilate, the governor.
3 Then Judas, his betrayer, seeing that Jesus had been condemned, deeply regretted what he had done. He returned the thirty pieces of silver to the chief priests and elders,
4 saying, "I have sinned in betraying innocent blood." They said, "What is that to us? Look to it yourself."
5 Flinging the money into the temple, he departed and went off and hanged himself.
6 The chief priests gathered up the money, but said, "It is not lawful to deposit this in the temple treasury, for it is the price of blood."
7 After consultation, they used it to buy the potter's field as a burial place for foreigners.
8 That is why that field even today is called the Field of Blood.
9 Then was fulfilled what had been said through Jeremiah the prophet, "And they took the thirty pieces of silver, the value of a man with a price on his head, a price set by some of the Israelites,
10 and they paid it out for the potter's field just as the Lord had commanded me."
11 Now Jesus stood before the governor, and he questioned him, "Are you the king of the Jews?" Jesus said, "You say so."
12 And when he was accused by the chief priests and elders, he made no answer.
13 Then Pilate said to him, "Do you not hear how many things they are testifying against you?"
14 But he did not answer him one word, so that the governor was greatly amazed.
15 Now on the occasion of the feast the governor was accustomed to release to the crowd one prisoner whom they wished.
16 And at that time they had a notorious prisoner called (Jesus) Barabbas.
17 So when they had assembled, Pilate said to them, "Which one do you want me to release to you, (Jesus) Barabbas, or Jesus called Messiah?"
18 For he knew that it was out of envy that they had handed him over.
19 While he was still seated on the bench, his wife sent him a message, "Have nothing to do with that righteous man. I suffered much in a dream today because of him."
20 The chief priests and the elders persuaded the crowds to ask for Barabbas but to destroy Jesus.
21 The governor said to them in reply, "Which of the two do you want me to release to you?" They answered, "Barabbas!"
22 Pilate said to them, "Then what shall I do with Jesus called Messiah?" They all said, "Let him be crucified!"
23 But he said, "Why? What evil has he done?" They only shouted the louder, "Let him be crucified!"
24 When Pilate saw that he was not succeeding at all, but that a riot was breaking out instead, he took water and washed his hands in the sight of the crowd, saying, "I am innocent of this man's blood. Look to it yourselves."
25 And the whole people said in reply, "His blood be upon us and upon our children."
26 Then he released Barabbas to them, but after he had Jesus scourged, he handed him over to be crucified.
27 Then the soldiers of the governor took Jesus inside the praetorium and gathered the whole cohort around him.
28 They stripped off his clothes and threw a scarlet military cloak about him.
29 Weaving a crown out of thorns, they placed it on his head, and a reed in his right hand. And kneeling before him, they mocked him, saying, "Hail, King of the Jews!"
30 They spat upon him and took the reed and kept striking him on the head.
31 And when they had mocked him, they stripped him of the cloak, dressed him in his own clothes, and led him off to crucify him.
32 As they were going out, they met a Cyrenian named Simon; this man they pressed into service to carry his cross.
33 And when they came to a place called Golgotha (which means Place of the Skull),
34 they gave Jesus wine to drink mixed with gall. But when he had tasted it, he refused to drink.
35 After they had crucified him, they divided his garments by casting lots;
36 then they sat down and kept watch over him there.
37 And they placed over his head the written charge against him: This is Jesus, the King of the Jews.
38 Two revolutionaries were crucified with him, one on his right and the other on his left.
39 Those passing by reviled him, shaking their heads
40 and saying, "You who would destroy the temple and rebuild it in three days, save yourself, if you are the Son of God, (and) come down from the cross!"
41 Likewise the chief priests with the scribes and elders mocked him and said,
42 "He saved others; he cannot save himself. So he is the king of Israel! Let him come down from the cross now, and we will believe in him.
43 He trusted in God; let him deliver him now if he wants him. For he said, 'I am the Son of God.'"
44 The revolutionaries who were crucified with him also kept abusing him in the same way.
45 From noon onward, darkness came over the whole land until three in the afternoon.
46 And about three o'clock Jesus cried out in a loud voice, "Eli, Eli, lema sabachthani?" which means, "My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?"
47 Some of the bystanders who heard it said, "This one is calling for Elijah."
48 Immediately one of them ran to get a sponge; he soaked it in wine, and putting it on a reed, gave it to him to drink.
49 But the rest said, "Wait, let us see if Elijah comes to save him."
50 But Jesus cried out again in a loud voice, and gave up his spirit.
51 And behold, the veil of the sanctuary was torn in two from top to bottom. The earth quaked, rocks were split,
52 tombs were opened, and the bodies of many saints who had fallen asleep were raised.
53 And coming forth from their tombs after his resurrection, they entered the holy city and appeared to many.
54 The centurion and the men with him who were keeping watch over Jesus feared greatly when they saw the earthquake and all that was happening, and they said, "Truly, this was the Son of God!"
55 There were many women there, looking on from a distance, who had followed Jesus from Galilee, ministering to him.
56 Among them were Mary Magdalene and Mary the mother of James and Joseph, and the mother of the sons of Zebedee.
57 When it was evening, there came a rich man from Arimathea named Joseph, who was himself a disciple of Jesus.
58 He went to Pilate and asked for the body of Jesus; then Pilate ordered it to be handed over.
59 Taking the body, Joseph wrapped it (in) clean linen
60 and laid it in his new tomb that he had hewn in the rock. Then he rolled a huge stone across the entrance to the tomb and departed.
61 But Mary Magdalene and the other Mary remained sitting there, facing the tomb.
62 The next day, the one following the day of preparation, the chief priests and the Pharisees gathered before Pilate
63 and said, "Sir, we remember that this impostor while still alive said, 'After three days I will be raised up.'
64 Give orders, then, that the grave be secured until the third day, lest his disciples come and steal him and say to the people, 'He has been raised from the dead.' This last imposture would be worse than the first."
65 Pilate said to them, "The guard is yours; go secure it as best you can."
66 So they went and secured the tomb by fixing a seal to the stone and setting the guard.
Questions for Discussion:
1. What is the closest you have come to deserting Christ?
2. What do you suppose was the hardest thing about this event for Jesus?
3. Why did the disciples desert Jesus?
4. Have you ever gone along with the crowd only to regret it later?
5. If Jesus came today, who would “crucify’ him? What would be the charge against him? Where would you be?
Summary of the Gospel from YMCentral
The intense drama of the Passion of our Lord is a story that speaks for itself: Because of its power, there is little that can be added to explain the story. Our focus this week is simply to allow you to meditate on it for yourself. As you do that, please keep in mind the following two key characters:
1. Judas: St. Matthew makes it a point to show us the role of Judas as Jesus’ betrayer, beginning with his association with the chief priests. As far as Scripture is concerned, Judas was only interested in the money: There was no mention of Judas either being deceived or having another motive. Judas even denies to Jesus in front of all the Apostles at the Last Supper that he will betray Him, yet all along Judas was searching for the right time to hand Jesus over to the authorities. Jesus makes it clear as to the future of Judas: “Better for that man if he had never been born.” Yet Judas, upon seeing that Jesus had been condemned, “deeply regretted what he had done.” Was this a true conversion of heart for Judas? Does this show us that Judas repented? Of course, only God knows, but the words of Jesus would lead us to believe otherwise.
2. St. Peter: While the other Gospels add specific details about St. Peter’s role during Our Lord’s Passion, St. Matthew highlights a couple of details about St. Peter. First, St. Peter, like Judas, turns his back on Jesus. The Lord tells St. Peter to his face that he will deny Him, yet St. Peter tries to stand up for his loyalty to Jesus. St. Peter is pulled aside (along with St. James and St. John) to be with Jesus during His Agony in the Garden. Instead of supporting Jesus, St. Peter falls asleep. Finally, Jesus prediction comes true and St. Peter denies Jesus three times.
What are the similarities and differences between Judas and St. Peter? We see that Judas actively sought to ‘sell out’ Jesus, yet St. Peter was not looking to deny Jesus. Both St. Peter and Judas denounced that they would ever do anything against Jesus, and both of them ‘ate’ their words. Both Judas and St. Peter ‘caved’ to the pressure put on them by others. In the end, Judas deals with his betrayal by committing suicide, while St. Peter deals with his denials by repenting, and going back to lead the Apostles. All of us struggle with turning our back on Jesus when the going gets tough: Our call this Palm Sunday is to ask the Lord for the grace to follow Him ‘24:7’, no matter the struggle, no matter the cost. May we also, like St. Peter, turn to Jesus for forgiveness if we have failed Him, and receive the grace to be strong and follow Jesus once again.
Discussion Questions
1. As you read this passage, list any elements from the story that appear ‘new’ to you. Share that in your group.
2. List the emotional and physical hardships that Jesus endured.
3. Of all the people involved in this passage, which one stands out the most for you? Why? How do you relate to that person?
Sources cited: USCCB, NAB Catholic Bible, www.ymcentral.com , A Portrait of Jesus by Joseph F Girzone
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Where Do You Need New Life?
Readings for Sunday April 10, 2011
Fifth Sunday of Lent
Summary of the Gospel from YM Central
Have you ever questioned Jesus’ ability to take care of you, even in tough times? Of all of His miracles, none of them were as dramatic as His resuscitation of the dead man Lazarus. Our Gospel this Sunday takes us into the very heart of this story. Lazarus’ sisters, Martha and Mary, had sent word to Jesus that He was needed in their town of Bethany to help cure the ailing Lazarus. Jesus shows us at the beginning of this story that He fully understands what is going on: Not only is Lazarus sick, but he is going to die. Jesus makes it clear to His disciples that He is not going to rescue Lazarus from death, but is going to use his death as an opportunity to show the glory of God. So Jesus purposely waits two days before He heads off to Bethany. Note His teaching to His disciples on death: Death is not a finality, as it appears to us, but is simply falling ‘asleep’ in God’s eyes, a temporary reality. Jesus makes it clear to us that He holds power over death (‘I am the Resurrection’) and that He performs miracles so that we might believe in Him. If Jesus is so powerful, why do we struggle with handing over to Him the struggles of our daily life? When Jesus finally arrives in Bethany, Lazarus has already died, and Mary, Lazarus’ sister, is distraught. Jesus is overcome with emotion at that time, and the Scriptures tell us that He was ‘deeply troubled’ and began to weep. It seems that Jesus isn’t weeping because Lazarus is dead, but because Lazarus’ friends and family are upset. Jesus then performs His greatest miracle short of His own Resurrection – and Lazarus comes back to life. Lazarus certainly wasn’t faking his death, because Martha is clear on telling us that he had been dead for four days. There is little that people can say at this point, except to believe that Jesus holds the power of death. For all of us today, it is important to realize that Jesus still holds that power. We all have to go through death, and yet Jesus clearly tells us that we have nothing to fear. He is the Resurrection, and will carry us through physical death to eternal life with Him. Does Jesus still need to perform a miracle in your life for you to believe, or can you place your trust in Him completely simply based on the words of Scripture? Many of us have become complacent with Jesus, ignoring Him with how we live our lives. We have forgotten to foster a relationship with Him, and have chosen to live our lives on own our own power, not on His love. Use this Lent as an opportunity to develop a thankfulness for all the Jesus has done for you. If Jesus has the power to resuscitate Lazarus, He has the power to take care of our day-to-day struggles. May we have the grace to let Jesus raise any dead parts of our spiritual lives back to life. Let us ask Him to bring new life in our hearts, and help us to order everything we do to His awesome love.
Reading 1 Ezekiel 37:12-14
12 Thus says the Lord GOD: O my people, I will open your graves and have you rise from them,
and bring you back to the land of Israel. 13 Then you shall know that I am the LORD, when I open your graves and have you rise from them, O my people! 14 I will put my spirit in you that you may live, and I will settle you upon your land; thus you shall know that I am the LORD.
I have promised, and I will do it, says the LORD.
Discussion Question : In the first reading, Ezekiel speaks of the days when the Lord will put his Spirit in each one of us. And we know that this has happened at our Baptism! What practical steps can you take this week to help you focus on and be more sensitive to the fact that the very Spirit of the Living God is present within you?
Reading 2 Romans 8:8-11
8 Brothers and sisters:Those who are in the flesh cannot please God. 9 But you are not in the flesh; on the contrary, you are in the spirit, if only the Spirit of God dwells in you. Whoever does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. 10 But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the spirit is alive because of righteousness. 11 If the Spirit of the one who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, the one who raised Christ from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies also, through his Spirit dwelling in you.
Discussion Question : St. Paul in the second reading tells us that because the Spirit of God dwells in us, God promises that our mortal bodies will be raised from the dead too! Death will have no hold over us. As you dwell on this truth, what thoughts or sentiments does it bring to your mind?
Gospel John 11:1-45
1 Now a man was ill, Lazarus from Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. 2 Mary was the one who had anointed the Lord with perfumed oil and dried his feet with her hair; it was her brother Lazarus who was ill. 3 So the sisters sent word to him saying, “Master, the one you love is ill.” 4 when Jesus heard this he said, “This illness is not to end in death, but is for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” 5 Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. 6 So when he heard that he was ill, he remained for two days in the place where he was. 7 Then after this he said to his disciples, “Let us go back to Judea.” 8 The disciples said to him, “Rabbi, the Jews were just trying to stone you, and you want to go back there?” 9 Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours in a day?If one walks during the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world. 10 But if one walks at night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him.” 11 He said this, and then told them, “Our friend Lazarus is asleep, but I am going to awaken him.” 12 So the disciples said to him, “Master, if he is asleep, he will be saved.” 13 But Jesus was talking about his death, while they thought that he meant ordinary sleep. 14 So then Jesus said to them clearly, “Lazarus has died. 15 And I am glad for you that I was not there,
that you may believe. Let us go to him.” 16 So Thomas, called Didymus, said to his fellow disciples, “Let us also go to die with him.” 17 When Jesus arrived, he found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. 18 Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, only about two miles away. 19 And many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them about their brother. 20 When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went to meet him; but Mary sat at home. 21 Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 But even now I know that whatever you ask of God, God will give you.” 23 Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise.” 24 Martha said to him, “I know he will rise,
in the resurrection on the last day.” 25 Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, 26 and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” 27 She said to him, “Yes, Lord. I have come to believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, the one who is coming into the world.” 28 When she had said this, she went and called her sister Mary secretly, saying, “The teacher is here and is asking for you.” 29 As soon as she heard this, she rose quickly and went to him. 30 For Jesus had not yet come into the village, but was still where Martha had met him. 31 So when the Jews who were with her in the house comforting her saw Mary get up quickly and go out, they followed her, presuming that she was going to the tomb to weep there. 32 When Mary came to where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet and said to him, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” 33 When Jesus saw her weeping and the Jews who had come with her weeping, he became perturbed and deeply troubled, 34 and said, “Where have you laid him?”
They said to him, “Sir, come and see.” 35 And Jesus wept. 36 So the Jews said, “See how he loved him.” 37 But some of them said, “Could not the one who opened the eyes of the blind man have done something so that this man would not have died?” 38 So Jesus, perturbed again, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay across it. 39 Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” Martha, the dead man’s sister, said to him, “Lord, by now there will be a stench; he has been dead for four days.” 40 Jesus said to her, “Did I not tell you that if you believe you will see the glory of God?” 41 So they took away the stone. And Jesus raised his eyes and said, “Father, I thank you for hearing me. 42 I know that you always hear me; but because of the crowd here I have said this, that they may believe that you sent me.” 43 And when he had said this, He cried out in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” 44 The dead man came out, tied hand and foot with burial bands, and his face was wrapped in a cloth. So Jesus said to them, “Untie him and let him go.”45 Now many of the Jews who had come to Mary and seen what he had done began to believe in him.
Discussion Questions:
1. In as much detail as possible, describe the reaction of the people who witnessed the raising of Lazarus. How do you think Lazarus felt at the end of this event?
2. How does Jesus’ weeping show us that He really cares about the pain we go through in our daily lives? How has He shown care and compassion for the events of your daily life?
3. If this miracle would have been done during our day, how do you think the media would have covered it? Would raising a dead man convince everyone to believe in Jesus?
4. What has the last word in my life? Is it discouragement over my sins? Is it the troubles that beset me? Which is stronger: the power of God’s Spirit in me or the pull of temptation that constantly tries to swamp the Spirit?
For example, what happens when I fall ill or feel anxious, angry, or harassed? I can blame God. I can feel sorry for myself. I can skimp on my prayer time. Surely God understands that I can’t set aside time to pray when I am so sick, so worried, so busy. Or I can turn to the Lord, draw near to him, and let him give me his eternal, hopeful perspective.
http://tommykawas.blogspot.com/
Enjoy the readings, please pass on the Good News… IHN tommyk
Fifth Sunday of Lent
Summary of the Gospel from YM Central
Have you ever questioned Jesus’ ability to take care of you, even in tough times? Of all of His miracles, none of them were as dramatic as His resuscitation of the dead man Lazarus. Our Gospel this Sunday takes us into the very heart of this story. Lazarus’ sisters, Martha and Mary, had sent word to Jesus that He was needed in their town of Bethany to help cure the ailing Lazarus. Jesus shows us at the beginning of this story that He fully understands what is going on: Not only is Lazarus sick, but he is going to die. Jesus makes it clear to His disciples that He is not going to rescue Lazarus from death, but is going to use his death as an opportunity to show the glory of God. So Jesus purposely waits two days before He heads off to Bethany. Note His teaching to His disciples on death: Death is not a finality, as it appears to us, but is simply falling ‘asleep’ in God’s eyes, a temporary reality. Jesus makes it clear to us that He holds power over death (‘I am the Resurrection’) and that He performs miracles so that we might believe in Him. If Jesus is so powerful, why do we struggle with handing over to Him the struggles of our daily life? When Jesus finally arrives in Bethany, Lazarus has already died, and Mary, Lazarus’ sister, is distraught. Jesus is overcome with emotion at that time, and the Scriptures tell us that He was ‘deeply troubled’ and began to weep. It seems that Jesus isn’t weeping because Lazarus is dead, but because Lazarus’ friends and family are upset. Jesus then performs His greatest miracle short of His own Resurrection – and Lazarus comes back to life. Lazarus certainly wasn’t faking his death, because Martha is clear on telling us that he had been dead for four days. There is little that people can say at this point, except to believe that Jesus holds the power of death. For all of us today, it is important to realize that Jesus still holds that power. We all have to go through death, and yet Jesus clearly tells us that we have nothing to fear. He is the Resurrection, and will carry us through physical death to eternal life with Him. Does Jesus still need to perform a miracle in your life for you to believe, or can you place your trust in Him completely simply based on the words of Scripture? Many of us have become complacent with Jesus, ignoring Him with how we live our lives. We have forgotten to foster a relationship with Him, and have chosen to live our lives on own our own power, not on His love. Use this Lent as an opportunity to develop a thankfulness for all the Jesus has done for you. If Jesus has the power to resuscitate Lazarus, He has the power to take care of our day-to-day struggles. May we have the grace to let Jesus raise any dead parts of our spiritual lives back to life. Let us ask Him to bring new life in our hearts, and help us to order everything we do to His awesome love.
Reading 1 Ezekiel 37:12-14
12 Thus says the Lord GOD: O my people, I will open your graves and have you rise from them,
and bring you back to the land of Israel. 13 Then you shall know that I am the LORD, when I open your graves and have you rise from them, O my people! 14 I will put my spirit in you that you may live, and I will settle you upon your land; thus you shall know that I am the LORD.
I have promised, and I will do it, says the LORD.
Discussion Question : In the first reading, Ezekiel speaks of the days when the Lord will put his Spirit in each one of us. And we know that this has happened at our Baptism! What practical steps can you take this week to help you focus on and be more sensitive to the fact that the very Spirit of the Living God is present within you?
Reading 2 Romans 8:8-11
8 Brothers and sisters:Those who are in the flesh cannot please God. 9 But you are not in the flesh; on the contrary, you are in the spirit, if only the Spirit of God dwells in you. Whoever does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. 10 But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the spirit is alive because of righteousness. 11 If the Spirit of the one who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, the one who raised Christ from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies also, through his Spirit dwelling in you.
Discussion Question : St. Paul in the second reading tells us that because the Spirit of God dwells in us, God promises that our mortal bodies will be raised from the dead too! Death will have no hold over us. As you dwell on this truth, what thoughts or sentiments does it bring to your mind?
Gospel John 11:1-45
1 Now a man was ill, Lazarus from Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. 2 Mary was the one who had anointed the Lord with perfumed oil and dried his feet with her hair; it was her brother Lazarus who was ill. 3 So the sisters sent word to him saying, “Master, the one you love is ill.” 4 when Jesus heard this he said, “This illness is not to end in death, but is for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” 5 Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. 6 So when he heard that he was ill, he remained for two days in the place where he was. 7 Then after this he said to his disciples, “Let us go back to Judea.” 8 The disciples said to him, “Rabbi, the Jews were just trying to stone you, and you want to go back there?” 9 Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours in a day?If one walks during the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world. 10 But if one walks at night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him.” 11 He said this, and then told them, “Our friend Lazarus is asleep, but I am going to awaken him.” 12 So the disciples said to him, “Master, if he is asleep, he will be saved.” 13 But Jesus was talking about his death, while they thought that he meant ordinary sleep. 14 So then Jesus said to them clearly, “Lazarus has died. 15 And I am glad for you that I was not there,
that you may believe. Let us go to him.” 16 So Thomas, called Didymus, said to his fellow disciples, “Let us also go to die with him.” 17 When Jesus arrived, he found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. 18 Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, only about two miles away. 19 And many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them about their brother. 20 When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went to meet him; but Mary sat at home. 21 Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. 22 But even now I know that whatever you ask of God, God will give you.” 23 Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise.” 24 Martha said to him, “I know he will rise,
in the resurrection on the last day.” 25 Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, 26 and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” 27 She said to him, “Yes, Lord. I have come to believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, the one who is coming into the world.” 28 When she had said this, she went and called her sister Mary secretly, saying, “The teacher is here and is asking for you.” 29 As soon as she heard this, she rose quickly and went to him. 30 For Jesus had not yet come into the village, but was still where Martha had met him. 31 So when the Jews who were with her in the house comforting her saw Mary get up quickly and go out, they followed her, presuming that she was going to the tomb to weep there. 32 When Mary came to where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet and said to him, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” 33 When Jesus saw her weeping and the Jews who had come with her weeping, he became perturbed and deeply troubled, 34 and said, “Where have you laid him?”
They said to him, “Sir, come and see.” 35 And Jesus wept. 36 So the Jews said, “See how he loved him.” 37 But some of them said, “Could not the one who opened the eyes of the blind man have done something so that this man would not have died?” 38 So Jesus, perturbed again, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay across it. 39 Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” Martha, the dead man’s sister, said to him, “Lord, by now there will be a stench; he has been dead for four days.” 40 Jesus said to her, “Did I not tell you that if you believe you will see the glory of God?” 41 So they took away the stone. And Jesus raised his eyes and said, “Father, I thank you for hearing me. 42 I know that you always hear me; but because of the crowd here I have said this, that they may believe that you sent me.” 43 And when he had said this, He cried out in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” 44 The dead man came out, tied hand and foot with burial bands, and his face was wrapped in a cloth. So Jesus said to them, “Untie him and let him go.”45 Now many of the Jews who had come to Mary and seen what he had done began to believe in him.
Discussion Questions:
1. In as much detail as possible, describe the reaction of the people who witnessed the raising of Lazarus. How do you think Lazarus felt at the end of this event?
2. How does Jesus’ weeping show us that He really cares about the pain we go through in our daily lives? How has He shown care and compassion for the events of your daily life?
3. If this miracle would have been done during our day, how do you think the media would have covered it? Would raising a dead man convince everyone to believe in Jesus?
4. What has the last word in my life? Is it discouragement over my sins? Is it the troubles that beset me? Which is stronger: the power of God’s Spirit in me or the pull of temptation that constantly tries to swamp the Spirit?
For example, what happens when I fall ill or feel anxious, angry, or harassed? I can blame God. I can feel sorry for myself. I can skimp on my prayer time. Surely God understands that I can’t set aside time to pray when I am so sick, so worried, so busy. Or I can turn to the Lord, draw near to him, and let him give me his eternal, hopeful perspective.
http://tommykawas.blogspot.com/
Enjoy the readings, please pass on the Good News… IHN tommyk
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