Twenty-First Sunday in Ordinary Time (John 6:60-69)
Jesus’ teaching of the Eucharist is difficult for some of his followers to accept. Greater insight and fidelity is expected from the Twelve and Peter declares “You have the words of eternal life”.
Do I appreciate that the words of Jesus are truly words of life?
What has this chapter of John’s gospel taught me?
We thank God for the gift of his Son, who is our Bread of Life.
We pray for those who have never known the words of eternal life, nor had the opportunity to commit themselves to the service of God.
Twenty-Second Sunday in Ordinary Time (Mark 7:1-8,14-15,21-23)
Jesus explains how various religious practices have built up over time. The challenge is that such human practices can sometimes obscure the deeper demands of faith.
Do I value the traditions which have been passed on to me, or do I belittle them as ‘not moving with the times?’
Am I determined to purify my inner motives and the things of the heart, rather than cloak them in external camouflage?
We thank Giod for the gifts of the Scriptures, the teaching of the Church and the living tradition of faith.
We pray for sound judgment and good discernment.
Twenty-Third Sunday in Ordinary Time (Mark 7:31-37.)
God’s coming, it was hoped, would transform people’s lives and the whole of creation. The miracle story suggests that these days have come. Who then is this man Jesus?
How can I imitate Jesus’ openness to people of different race and culture?
What is my attitude to people with disabilities?
Let us pray that we may use all our senses in the service of the gospel.
We pray form those who exercise healing ministries.
Twenty-Fourth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Mark 8:27-35)
The question about the identity of Jesus is really a question about why he has come. Petre claims that Jesus is the Messiah! Jesus neither welcomes Peter’s assertion nr rejects it. Jesus speaks for the first time of his suffering, death and resurrection. The Messiah will not claim power for himself; he will not dominate others. In giving up his life Jesus opens up a new way, a new vision, a vision of self-giving love. From this point onwards, the Gospel of Mark will draw us inexorably in to the mystery of the cross, the mystery of God’s love revealed in the human life of the Son of God, which explains the meaning and purpose of our own lives too.
Who is Jesus for me?
Am I willing to accept Jesus’ words about the cross?
Let us pray for fidelity ad courage as we discover more about God’s purposes.
Let us pray for all disciples of the Lord.
Fr Adrian Graffy