SOCL, Sunday25B

Sunday September 22, 2024

Whoever wants to be first must be last of all and servant of all.

See

Jeremiah, who knew a thing or two about the human condition, wrote: The heart is devious above all else; it is perverse— who can understand it? (Jer 17:9) A healthy introspection (it need not be introversion!) is essential, if we are to become free from inherited drives and free for service.

Listen

Wisdom 2:12, 17-20; Psalm 54 [53]; James 3:16-4:3; Mark 9:30-37

Reflect

(Mark 9:30-37)

-Jesus uses the time they are traveling along the road to teach his disciples what it means to be one of his followers. Think of the wisdom you have acquired about life, about faith, about what it means to be a Christian. Who have been your teachers? Remember them and give thanks for them.

-One of the lessons Jesus gives them is that there is a dying to be endured as we move to a fuller life. That was the road he would travel. It is also our journey, not only at the end of this earthly life, but also in small ways through life. When have you found that by dying in some way you came to a fuller life?

-Achievement, affirmation, recognition and status are attractive and enjoyable when they come our way. Yet we can be in trouble if, like the disciples, we become caught up in pursuit of them. Jesus tells them that true greatness lies in service of others. What has helped you to appreciate the value of loving service of others? When have you experienced the service of others to you?

Pray

O God, protector of the poor and defender of the just, in your kingdom the last become first, the gentle are strong, and the lowly exalted. Give us the wisdom from above, that we may find in your servant Jesus the pattern of true discipleship and the grace to persevere in following him, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God for ever and ever. Amen.

References

The Lord Upholds My Life

SOCL, Dialogue in not debate

In the contemporary world we live in today, where intense and often heated discussions seem to overshadow our social interactions, it has become increasingly essential to restore and rediscover the genuine meaning and profound value of engaging in meaningful dialogue. Unlike the nature of debate, whose fundamental goal is to triumph over the opponent, the essence of dialogue lies in the desire to understand and build a joint understanding collaboratively. This fascinating process is inherently a collective effort that encourages us to genuinely open our minds and hearts to embrace the multitude of diverse perspectives that exist around us.

Engaging in active dialogue challenges us to truly listen to one another, to momentarily set aside our preconceived judgments, and to delve into the strengths and merits found in others’ ideas. It provides a unique opportunity to realize that truth is rarely absolute, and that each individual has the capacity to contribute a meaningful and valuable piece to the puzzle of achieving mutual understanding. In a world often characterized by polarization, the practice of dialogue stands as a powerful bridge that effectively unites us and allows us to overcome the formidable barriers stemming from intolerance and deeply rooted prejudices.

The primary purpose of dialogue is to learn, change, and grow in our perception and understanding of reality, and then act accordingly [Dr. Leonard Swidler].

Cultivating the delicate art of dialogue requires a profound sense of humility, a rich capacity for empathy, and an unwavering willingness to embrace change. This transformative process demands that we let go of the comforting embrace of our established certainties and bravely embark on the exploration of the fertile and promising realms of shared uncertainty that await us. By engaging in this journey, we not only expand and enrich our own thinking, but we also strengthen the social fabric that binds us, creating inclusive spaces where our differences do not act as divisive forces but instead serve to collectively improve and enrich us as a community.

References

Dialogue Institute. (n.d.). Dialogue Institute. http://dialogueinstitute.org/

One another, Sunday24B

September 15, 2024

Isaiah 50:5-9; Psalm 116 (114); James 2:14-18; Mark 8:27-35

To the God of mercy and reconciliation, let us lift up our hearts and voices in prayer:

That every ministry of our parish may proclaim the Messiah’s presence among us: let us pray to the Lord.

That those who serve our Church as bishops, priests, pastors, and teachers may proclaim the gospel with courage, integrity, and perseverance: let us pray to the Lord.

That the laws and public policies of the world’s governments and nations may be dedicated to serving the common good: let us pray to the Lord.

That those peoples and Churches who are persecuted for their faith and beliefs may preserve in the hope that the peace and justice of God will one day reign: let us pray to the lord.

That the faith we profess may find expression in our compassionate care for the poor, the lost, and the forgotten: let us pray to the Lord.

That those who have died in Christ’s peace [especially _________], may walk forever in the presence of God: let us pray to the Lord.

That God, our gracious Father, will hear the prayer we now offer in the silence of our hearts [Pause...]: let us pray to the Lord.

Gracious God, hear the prayers we lift up to you, Give us the courage and generosity to crucify our self-interests and take up our crosses to follow Christ, so that we may bring his new life and liberation to our We offer these prayers in the name of Jesus, the Messiah and Redeemer.

References

-United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. (2024f, September 15). Twenty-fourth Sunday in ordinary time. USCCB. https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/091524.cfm

-Cormier, J. (1995). Lord, Hear Our Prayer: Prayer of the Faithful for Sundays, Holy Days, and Ritual Masses.