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| The Seven Sacraments displayed above the door of an Irish church. |
Welcome back to a little liturgy. Apologies for the short break - I am hoping to resume blogging weekly now. This week's picture of a church offering the Sacraments with open gates struck me as I was holidaying in Ireland. I hope you can use it with your children this week.
Summary of the Liturgy of the Word
First Reading
Wisdom 2:12, 17-20
People who do not follow God will try to put the "virtuous man" to the test. They say "Let us condemn him to a shameful death since he will be looked after".
Psalm 53
The Lord upholds my life.
Second Reading
James 3:16-4:3
James tells us that jealousy and ambition cause trouble and that we should follow the wisdom that comes down from heaven which is pure. Kindness, consideration and compassion are recommended. He tells us off for fighting between ourselves and says that when we pray we should not pray to indulge our own desires.
Gospel
Mark 9:30-37
Jesus predicts his death and resurrection but the disciples do not understand and are afraid to ask.
Next the disciples start arguing about who is best. Jesus says "If anyone wants to be first, he must make himself last of all and servant of all." He also tells them that if they welcome him they are welcoming "the one who sent me".
Discussion
This week the readings tell us clearly to avoid focussing on ourselves and not to be arrogant. Both James and Jesus' audiences have been quarrelling and arguing. These texts are timeless, as we still argue amongst ourselves today. By doing this, we are doing what the Book of Wisdom foretells by lying "in wait for the virtuous man". Instead we should be following Jesus who will lead us to the father.
Activity
Click here for the words of the hymn "Lord of the Dance". These words tell the story of Jesus' life and death - just as we hear him telling them in today's Gospel.
Draw a picture for each verse to show the pattern of Jesus' life.
The hymn ends with "I'll Iive in you if you'll live in me".
What does it mean to live in Christ?
One of the ways we can help ourselves to live in Christ is to read the Bible and participate in the sacraments:
Baptism
Reconciliation
Holy Communion
Confirmation
Marriage
Ordination
The Sacrament of the Sick
Make sure that you understand what each of these are and then choose one to research further.
I hope you have found something to prompt discussion this week!
Maria
