First Reading
Isaiah 66:10-14c

1. Salvation history began in the Old Testament, moved through the New and continues today. Do you think God’s love has changed over time or is it the same? Why do you say so?

2. Compare Jerusalem in this reading with the Church today. What treasure has the Church received from God that gives her children such great comfort?

Second Reading
Galatians 6:14-18

1. “For neither does circumcision mean anything, nor does uncircumcision.” Some people wanted to follow the ancient practices. Paul did not. Can you relate to this kind of problem in your home? Your work? Your Church?

2. St. Paul looks at the circumcision from the perspective of “the cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ.” Can you envision problems in today’s Church from the same perspective? Standing vs. kneeling, women vs. men, inclusive language or not, which style of music is played?

Gospel
Luke 10:1-12, 17-20 or 10:1-9

1. Jesus sent seventy-two disciples out because at the time there were seventy-two known nations. What would such symbolism mean in our times? In what ways are you a laborer in this abundant harvest?

2. Why does Jesus call us lambs? And why does Pope Francis insist we stay lambs? What kind of lambs does he think we should be?

Christ says to the 72 disciples in today’s Gospel, “Go! I am sending you out like lambs among wolves. Do not take a purse or bag or sandals; and do not greet anyone on the road.”
 
Like lambs ... Don’t become wolves ... Because, at times, temptation makes us think: ‘But this is difficult, these wolves are cunning and I will be even more cunning than them, eh? Lamb. Not a fool, but a lamb. Lamb. With Christian astuteness, but always a lamb. Because if you are a lamb, he defends you. But if you feel strong like a wolf, he does not defend you, he leaves you alone, and the wolves will eat you alive. Like a lamb.” …

One cannot walk as a Christian without joy, one cannot walk as a lamb without joy, [Christians who are constantly complaining and whining] are not doing any favors for the Lord or the Church.

Pope Francis: A True Christian Must be Like a Lamb
February 17, 2014

Anne Osdieck

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