Reflection of the Week

Adult Reflection: Why do you suppose Jesus was so kind to Zacchaeus? What lesson do you draw from this reading regarding those who are considered "public sinners" today?
Children's Reflection: Jesus showed that he loved Zacchaeus by having supper with him. How does Jesus show his love for you?

Reflection of the Week

Adult Reflection: This Gospel reading suggests that we approach God and each other with humility. What does this mean, in practical terms? How do we "humble" ourselves? What does that mean?
Children's Reflection: Jesus teaches us to be humble – but what does that mean? How do you show you are humble?

Reflection of the Week

Adult Reflection: When you pray, what do you ask for most often? How do you know God gives you this request?
Children's Reflection: Jesus teaches us to trust God. How does God help you in your daily life?

Reflection of the Week

Adult Reflection: What are some ways you can think of to show gratitude to God? Make them concrete and real.
Children's Reflection: Make up a prayer which tells God you are thankful for everything you have, even if it’s not all you want.

Reflection of the Week

Adult Reflection: Being “in Christ” means living as Christ teaches. What signs do you see in your life of generosity, forgiveness, hospitality, or any other of Jesus’ teachings?
Children's Reflection: Jesus teaches us that our faith is is powerful and with it, we can do great things. We can forgive, love, and share with others. Which of these do you do most often?

Reflection of the Week

Adult Reflection: What choices can you or have you made to balance your own life with those who are homeless, poor and in need of assistance for daily living? How does this Gospel reading inform you about that?
Children's Reflection: Jesus teaches us to share what we have with others. What do you have that you are able to share?

Reflection of the Week

Adult Reflection: Money is an important part of modern life. Suggest one or two ways you can keep the need for money in balance with your faith.
Children's Reflection: Clothes, food, toys all cost money. How do you keep your faith more important than money?

Reflection of the Week

Adult Reflection: When you wander away from being true to your faith, how do you know God will take you back? What signs do you see?
Children's Reflection: The father in this story welcomed his son home, even after he ran away and did bad things. How do you know God welcomes you after you do that?

Reflection of the Week

Adult Reflection: Today's Gospel is demanding. How do you as a modern man or woman "denounce your possessions?" What does this mean for you?
Children's Reflection: Jesus says that in order to be one of his followers, we must be close to him. When do you feel closest to Jesus?

Reflection of the Week

Adult Reflection: Who are the people living near you that you would find it most difficult to invite to a meal in your home? Or to invite to be part of your life?
Children's Reflection: Jesus tells us that we should treat everyone as a guest. Who do you tend to shun or not be nice to?

Reflection of the Week

Adult Reflection: As you wrestle with today's Gospel, what signs do you see in your own life that you are "with God."
Children's Reflection: How do you show that you are a follower of Jesus?

Reflection of the Week

Adult Reflection: Share about a time when life's struggles were so difficult for you that you nearly "threw in the towel." What signs did you see then that God remained with you?
Children's Reflection: What is one way you can be closer to Jesus today?

Reflection of the Week

Adult Reflection:On a daily basis, what are some ways to keep yourself “ready for God to act?” How do you pay attention to God’s often-less-than-obvious actions?
Children's Reflection:Jesus tells us to always be ready to hear him. What are some ways that he speaks to us?

Reflection of the Week

Adult Reflection:What wisdom do you pull out of this reading to help you set priorities in your life?
Children's Reflection:What is the most important thing in your life?

Reflection of the Week

Adult Reflection:Jesus teaches us how to pray. When this past week did you take the time to pray, to talk to and listen to God?
Children's Reflection:Prayer is talking with God and listening to God in our hearts. Where do you talk to God and how do you listen to what God says to you?