12th Sunday in Ordinary Time Discussion Questions

A Conversation with the Weekend Readings
Theme: Do Not Be Afraid
June 16 2020


First Reading: Jeremiah 20: 10-13
Second Reading: Romans 5:12-15
Gospel: Matthew 10: 26-33

         Discussion Questions
                       
1)    Our first reading is from the Book of Jeremiah. Jeremiah was born in 650 BC to a world in the midst of war. Jerusalem (the Temple) was destroyed in 587 BC and many of the Jewish people were sent into exile.  Jeremiah (sometimes called “the weeping prophet”) warned the community of the coming consequences of their sinful behavior.  What wars are we in the midst of today? What sinful social behaviors do we need to address today? As baptized Christians, we are called to the role of a prophet – how can we use our “voice” to warn others of these unavoidable consequences? What scares you most about current world events?

2)    In St. Paul’s letter to the Romans, we are told that through one man (Adam) death entered the world and subsequently, through One Man (Jesus the Christ) life has been restored.  Christ’s incarnation, death, and resurrection have endowed the world with an abundance of grace.  In regard to Adam, Paul is using a very literal interpretation of Genesis to make a theological point. Using a historical-critical method of Biblical Scholarship, we understand that death entered the created world long before humanity came on the scene.  Exactly how sin/death entered the world is unknown.  Texts older than any of our canonical NT Scriptures describe the fall of the angels as the source of death and evil in this world within which we live. However it came to be, we know we live in a “fallen world” which tends towards death. Jesus came to restore life and in abundance. He shows us a better way. In what ways can we foster a “culture of light, life, and love” radiating the grace of God, in the midst of this darkened world?

3)    Today’s Gospel from Matthew challenges us to fear no one. We are told every hair on our head has been counted and that not one hair will be harmed. Everything which exists in the darkness will be brought to the light. We are protected. How do you feel when you hear these words? What about those who are persecuted for their faith?  How does this Gospel support the risks we take as women priests?

4)    “But whoever denies me before others, I will deny before my heavenly Father.” How do you understand this statement? How do we reconcile this with St. Peter having denied Jesus 3x before others but is then given the “keys of heaven and earth” and becomes the “rock” on which Christianity is built?


5)    “Do not be afraid. I am with you.” – Jesus
How do you recognize/feel the presence of Jesus in your life when you are afraid?

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