August 10, 2008, 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time
"Get hold of yourselves! It is I. Do not be afraid."
READINGS:
1. l Kings 19, 9a 11-13a
2. 2 Rom 9, 1-5
3. Gospel Mt 14, 22, 23
REFLECTION: One thing we can count on in life is trouble. It is here to stay and is no stranger. Another thing we can count on is the promise of the Lord to be with us at all times. He is here to stay and should be no stranger. Jesus offers us Presence in the midst of what appears to be absence. He offers life in the midst of death. Our part is to believe, to wait and to pray.
PRAYER: Lord, Jesus, be with us at all times, just as you were present to Peter and to the disciples in the boat in the midst of the storm. Help us to sense your presence with us every moment of our lives and grant us the peace and joy of knowing that you are always with us. Amen.
ACTION: Reflect on the last time that you sensed God's presence in a special way. Explore the meaning you gained from this experience.
FAMILY DISCUSSION:
*Monday*:
Share an experience one family member had when they "stepped out of the boat" and took a risk.
*Tuesday*:
How might we as a family "step out of the boat" of our routine? e.g. Pray the Rosary as a family.
*Wednesday*:
Discuss a modern day person who you think has answered the challenge of the Lord to believe and trust. e.g. Pope Benedict XVI, or someone in your family.
*Thursday*:
Pray as a family the Glorious Mysteries of the Rosary for all those who are sick in body.
*Friday*:
Name those we know who are in real need? Do something as a family to assist.
*Saturday*:
Read and Reflect on next Sunday's readings
Is. 56, l, 6-7
Rom 11, 13-14, 29-32
Mt. 15, 21-28
PRAYER: Lord Jesus, rouse our energy and help us to use it in new and refreshing ways. May our lives become fuller and happier because we have the courage to step out of the safety of our little boats, where you wait to strengthen us. Amen.
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