Sunday Readings' Discussion Questions
Third Sunday of Advent, Dec. 12, 2010 (3AdvAC)
From the Center for Liturgy at Saint Louis University
Sunday Mass Readings
Podcast of the Readings
Video of Reflections on Readings
Lecturas y Comentarios
Prayer of the Hours
BQ: Was the Blessed Virgin Mary a Virgin Forever?
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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
Book of the Prophet Isaiah, Chapter 35, Verses 1-6a, 10
1. Isaiah said God would give signs to tell the Israelites of their delivery from slavery. What were they? Can you see similar signs of God’s loving presence in the world today?
2. Who does God use to transform the world now? Name one thing you can do in your home, community, parish, work or environment to make the world a better place?
Psalms
Psalm 146: 6-10
1) How does the Psalm reflect what Isaiah promises us in our 1st reading? Compare what Isaiah says about the coming of the Lord with the Psalm's redemptive verses.
2) In the Gospel, Jesus reminds us of the power of his ministry. What does the Psalm have to say about the power of the Lord as our redeemer?
Second Reading
Letter of James, Chapter 5, Verses 7-10
1. “See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth” What part does nature play? How does this statement relate to Advent? What does God do in you during this time? What does the farmer do to prepare? What do you do? How is patience involved in both situations?
2. What are some qualities that patience brings with it? What does impatience bring? Can you help eliminate or lessen “grumbling” in the Church, your community, parish or work place?
Gospel
According to Matthew, Chapter 11, Verses 2-11
1. John the Baptist might have expected a mighty savior and was confused at the gentle, healing Jesus. Does God always come into your life the way you expect? Explain.
2. Explain in both the literal and metaphorical senses Jesus’ reply to the Baptist, “the blind regain their sight. . . .” Who are the prophets in your life? Why is listening just as important for a prophet as speaking?
Online Sunday Bible Study Group
Please share your reflections on the above Sunday Readings. May we be blessed by God's words as reflected in your thoughts and experience-sharing.
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