A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings

Joel 2:12-19

In this passage, the prophet Joel offers a promise of God’s help to the people of Judah if they repent. The people are invited to return to God with all their heart so that they might experience his grace and mercy. The prophet Joel reminds Judah that God’s love is unconditional and that God does not take joy in punishing them. The need to sanctify the congregation is clear and urgent. Therefore, the priests and ministers are encouraged to stand between the vestibule and the altar and weep for the community of faith.

  1. How have you asked for God’s help in  your life?

  2. Does God punish the unfaithful? Why do you feel this way?

  3. What might sanctifying your family and friend circle look like today?

  4. Do you feel that your priest/minister weeps/intercedes on behalf of the community of faith? Why or why not?

Revelation 19:11-21

In this passage, we have the vision of Jesus returning to a hostile creation. He is accompanied by the armies of heaven. In the wrath of God, Jesus strikes down evil powers and establishes his rule over them. Jesus alone is “King of kings and Lord of lords." The faithful are then invited to gather for the great supper of God while the unfaithful are thrown alive into the lake of fire that burns with sulfur.

  1. How are we hostile to Jesus?

  2. What practical steps have we taken to welcome Jesus into our life?

  3. Are we more likely to be part of the great supper of God or be thrown alive into the lake of fire?

Luke 15:1-10

This passage underscores the joy of finding lost treasure. There are many who grumble when the church makes efforts to serve the poor and needy. Jesus employs two parables (the lost sheep, and the lost coin) to drive home the point of being concerned for those who are least and lost in this world. The truth is that there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents than over ninety-nine righteous persons who need no repentance.

  1. Do you feel like you have lost your way?

  2. What treasure did you take for granted until it was taken away from you?

  3. Do you find yourself supporting the outreach efforts of the church or complaining about it? Explain.

  4. Why might heaven rejoice more over one sinner who repents than over many who are righteous?

To God be the glory now and forever. Amen.

Fr. Thomas+



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