A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings

Wisdom 3:1-9

This passage addresses the fate of the righteous. In the eyes of the foolish, a life of righteousness is perceived as pointless - bringing about only disaster, destruction and death. In reality, however, the righteous are at peace for they are in the hand of God, and no evil will ever destroy them. Believe it or not - a little discipline goes a long way. The righteous are like gold in the furnace. At the right time, the righteous will shine and their fire will never be extinguished. They walk in the way of truth and love and are filled with grace and mercy.

  1. What does it mean to be righteous?

  2. Do you consider yourself to be righteous? Why or why not?

  3. Describe a time in your life when you experienced disaster, destruction or death. How did this experience tempt you to turn away from God or make you question the point of going about life the ‘right’ way?

  4. Is it possible to be at peace amidst the storms of life? Explain.

  5. In what way does a fiery furnace symbolize a disciplined life? 

Colossians 1:15-23

This passage highlights the preeminence and supremacy of Jesus Christ. It emphasizes that Christ is the image of the invisible God, the firstborn over all creation, and the head of the church. It also emphasizes that Christ's death on the cross reconciles us to God and makes peace between God and humanity. Christ must be the center of our life. Everything was created by and for Christ. Christ alone holds all things together. As a result, our lives should be focused on Christ, and our ultimate goal should be to glorify Christ in all that we do. We are challenged to re-evaluate our priorities and ensure that Christ is truly at the center of our life.

  1. What does Christ’s preeminence and supremacy mean to you?

  2. Is Christ the head of your church community? Explain.

  3. How does Christ’s death on the cross reconcile us to God and make peace between God and humanity?

  4. Is your life focused on Christ or are there other things that have supplanted Christ’s authority in your life?

  5. What is a practical lifestyle change that you can begin today to help make Christ the center of your life and your greatest priority?

Luke 6:12-26

This passage describes Jesus' selection of the twelve apostles and His subsequent teaching on the blessings and curses of life. Jesus spends the night in prayer before selecting His apostles, demonstrating the importance of seeking God's guidance in all aspects of life. The teaching that follows emphasizes that those who are poor, hungry, and persecuted are blessed in the kingdom of God, while those who are gluttonous and selfish will be cursed. The passage exhorts us to consider our own priorities, understanding that materialistic living is never the ultimate goal of life. True blessings come from living a life that honors God and serves others. Therefore, we must seek God's guidance in all aspects of our life - especially when making important life choices.

  1. Do you pray before making important life choices? Why or why not?

  2. Other than prayer, what ways do you seek God’s guidance in life?

  3. In what ways are you gluttonous and selfish?

  4. What is your ultimate goal in life?

  5. How are you tangibly serving others today?

To God be the glory now and forever. Amen.

Fr. Thomas+



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