A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings

Daniel 1:1-21

In this passage we see Daniel’s decision to be faithful and the blessing of his faithfulness. Daniel models a 5-fold approach to the temptations/tests of life: 1) a heart set on not compromising one’s faith, 2) a positive attitude as opposed to a negative one, 3) a courteous protest for Jesus as opposed to a protest against the devil, 4) an attitude of self-denial, 5) a willingness to have your faith tested and tried.

  1. Define ‘faithfulness’. Would you describe yourself as faithful?

  2. Why must faithfulness be an intentional decision?

  3. What was Daniel’s 5-fold approach to facing the temptations/tests of life? What do you like about the model? What would you change?

  4. Would others describe your overall attitude as one that is positive or negative? Explain.

  5. What is the difference between a protest for Jesus as opposed to a protest against the devil?

  6. Describe an experience where you engaged in a courteous protest. What was this experience like?

  7. How has self-denial been a part of your approach to life?

  8. What advice would you give to someone who feels cursed for being faithful?

  9. When was the last time that your faith was tested or tried?

  10. Has there ever been a time in your life when you forsook your faith? Explain.

1 John 1:1-10

This passage highlights the foundation of a healthy relationship and offers wisdom on how to repair a broken relationship.

  1. Why might it be important to keep Christ at the center of any relationship?

  2. How did Christ’s sharing of himself with the world model for us what a transformational relationship should look like? In what way have you shared yourself with others?

  3. Name 3 relationships that bring you joy? Why do these relationships bring you joy?

  4. Can the darkness of evil be in relationship with the light of God’s holiness? Why or why not?

  5. What mistakes have you done that destroyed an otherwise healthy relationship?

  6. Reconciling a broken relationship demands a heart of repentance. Why is this?

  7. In what way does Jesus provide hope for rebuilding relationships?

John 17:1-11

This passage offers us an insight to Jesus’ prayer life as he prepares to face the pain of the cross.

  1. Define the term ‘glorify’, and distinguish between how Jesus understood the term and how the world often views the term.

  2. According to Jesus, what is the purpose of ‘eternal life’?

  3. How do we glorify God?

  4. In what way is there protection in the name of Jesus?

  5. There are so many types of churches in the world today and so much division. Do you think that it is possible for the many churches to become one just as the Father, Son and Holy Spirit are one? Why or why not?

To God be the glory now and forever. Amen.

Fr. Thomas+



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