Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
First Sunday of Advent, November 29, 2009 (1AdvC)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University
Sunday Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios para Domingo
Online Sunday Bible Study Group
Burning Question: What does "pray without ceasing" mean?
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Questions on Sunday's Readings for use by discussion groups,
prayer groups, or for individual prayer.
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First Reading
Jeremiah, Chapter 33: Verses 14-16
1. Advent is a process of looking back at Christ’s birth and the inauguration of his kingdom on earth and looking forward to it fulfillment. What does Advent awaken in you? Does anything in your daily life interfere with your spiritual Advent preparation?
2. Why is Advent called the season of hope? Why is hope vital to your life? What would your life be like without hope? What can you do to bring hope to people you know?
Second Readings
1 Thessalonians, Chapter 3, Verse 12 - Chapter 4, Verse 28
1. St. Paul says that the same Jesus who lived and died and rose from the dead is present and active among us now making us increase (in numbers) and abound in love for one another and for all. How do you think “increasing in numbers” correlates with “abounding in love for one another and for all”?
2. St. Paul said he “abounded in love” for the Thessalonians to strengthen their hearts. Discuss “abounding in love” as an effective method of strengthening hearts or eliciting change of any kind. Do you think great change or growth ever happens without immense love?
Gospel
According to Luke, Chapter 21, Verses 25-28, 34-36
1. Jesus tells us to pray for strength. Do you believe that if you ask for strength you will receive it? Could God send it through other people? Could you be a source of strength for others?
2. Jesus is God’s last Word (Christ’s Incarnation) to us. Discuss this idea.
Online Sunday Bible Study Group
Please share your reflections on the above Sunday Readings with other ParishWorld readers. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing.
Click here to go to our online Sunday Bible Study Group.
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