A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings

1 Samuel 15:24-35

In this passage Saul confesses that he has sinned. Saul explains to Samuel that the reason he sinned was that he feared the people and obeyed their voice instead of God’s. Saul asks Samuel to absolve him of his sins but Samuel makes it clear that Saul has to face the consequences of the choices he made. Saul continues to insist that Samuel guide him in making healthier choices going forward but there was not much that Samuel could do other than grieve the fate of Saul and his tenure as king over Israel.

  1. What sin or suffering is in your life that you need to confess?

  2. How has the fear of judgment and condemnation caused you to compromise your moral or ethical principles?

  3. Describe a grave consequence that you had to accept for an unhealthy choice you made. What did you learn from this experience?

  4. In your opinion, what is the key to making healthy choices?

  5. What grief are you experiencing because of someone else’s poor choices?

Acts 9:32-43

This passage recounts two occasions in which God used Peter to heal others. The first healing occurred in the life of Aeneas. The second healing occurred in the life of Tabitha (aka Dorcas). In both occurrences of healing, many people who witnessed these events turned to the Lord in faith.

  1. What does it mean to be healed?

  2. Does healing occur today?

  3. Have you ever experienced healing in your life?

  4. What ‘supernatural’ event have you witnessed that changed your perspective/approach to life?

  5. Does everyone have the power to heal or is this a special gifting that only a few people have been blessed with? How do you know?

Luke 23:56b-24:11

In this passage a few women - specifically Mary Magdalene, Joanna, and Mary the mother of James visit the tomb of Jesus and - taking the spices that they had prepared. To their surprise, when they approached the tomb, they found the stone rolled away from the tomb and did not find the body. In the midst of their bewilderment, two men in dazzling clothes suddenly appeared and stood beside them. Naturally, the women were terrified and bowed their faces to the ground. The men said to them, "Why do you look for the living among the dead? He is not here, but has risen. Remember how he told you, while he was still in Galilee, that the Son of Man must be handed over to sinners, and be crucified, and on the third day rise again." The women had an epiphany and remembered Jesus’ words. Filled with joy, the women returned from the tomb and told all this to the eleven and to those gathered with them. As you would expect, the words of the women seemed to the men an idle tale, and they did not believe them.

  1. How comfortable or uncomfortable are you with talking about and addressing the topic of ‘death’?

  2. In what way have you prepared for your own death or for the death of a loved one? What steps did you take and why?

  3. What surprises you about death and dying?

  4. What practical significance does the resurrection of Jesus have for you personally?

  5. Is it easier for us to believe bad news or good news? Explain. What good news have you attempted to share with those around you but were met with opposition and denial instead?

To God be the glory now and forever. Amen.

Fr. Thomas+



Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

Image
A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings Deuteronomy 1:1-18 This passage contains the words that Moses spoke to all Israel as they were camped on the great plains of Moab, able to see across the Jordan River into the Promised Land. This was the land of Canaan that God promised them but which they had not occupied for 400 years. This passage reminds us to be faithful and exhorts us to be prepared even then life is frustrating and confusing. God has a plan and purpose for our life even if we do not understand God’s ways. This passage also reveals Moses’ leadership style to us. He was willing to distribute the responsibility of leadership to others but did so only with the support of the people. It was not a dictatorship; it was a democracy. Each tribe was given freedom to choose individuals who were wise, discerning, and reputable among them to be their leaders. In what ways have we entrusted the responsibility of leadership to others? How have we failed to identify small group leaders ...
Read more
Image
A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings Ezekiel 4:1-17 This passage portrays a vivid and symbolic depiction of the prophet's obedience to God's commands. As we reflect on these verses, we are struck by the profound message of commitment and sacrifice. Through the actions of building a miniature model of Jerusalem's siege and lying on his side for an extended period, Ezekiel demonstrates his unwavering faith and willingness to bear the burdens of his people. This passage reminds us of the importance of obedience to God's calling, even when it requires discomfort or unconventional actions. It encourages us to ponder how we can wholeheartedly serve and fulfill God's purposes, regardless of the challenges that may arise. Which of God’s commands is hardest for you to follow and why? Describe a recent experience where you modeled commitment and sacrifice to a cause bigger than yourself. Does your faith ever waver? Why or why not? Have you ever found obedience to God to ...
Read more
Image
A Reflection on the Daily Office Readings 2 Samuel 17:24-18:8 In this passage, the narrative unfolds with King David in a time of crisis. His trusted counselor Ahithophel betrayed him, siding with Absalom. Amidst the chaos, David's faith in God remained unwavering. His plea for divine guidance led to wise counsel from Hushai, which countered Ahithophel's advice. David's reliance on God's direction prevailed, highlighting the importance of seeking God's will even in dire circumstances. This passage underscores that no scheme against God's chosen can prosper when trust in His providence prevails. It's a reminder to steadfastly seek God's guidance in all decisions. Questions: How did David react to Ahithophel's betrayal? How do you typically respond to betrayal? Why did Hushai's counsel to Absalom prove pivotal? Name one person who you turn to for wise counsel? How does this passage reveal David's unwavering faith during crisis? Has you faith ev...
Read more