First
Reading
Deuteronomy 30:10-14
1. Sometimes organized religion develops commandments and statutes like the ones that Moses refers to in this reading. What do you think inspired these codes?
2. Where does every person find God’s commandment? Jesus said the commandments are: love God and love your neighbor. Do you find yourself relying on codes and guidelines more than on the underlying commandment?
Second Reading
Colossians 1:15-20
1. Jesus was “Christ Jesus, the one who is before all things, the firstborn of all creation.” With whom did he spend time? With whom do you want to spend time? Do you make an effort to give time to God and the people you love or are you always in a hurry to do more important things?
2. This reading says Christ reconciled all things, making peace by the blood of his cross. What still needs reconciling in the besieged environment today? In the arena of human rights? How can you share in the work of creation, redemption and renewal?
Gospel
Luke 10:25-37
1. If you found the victim by the road, would you be willing to help? Can you think of someone who would? If the victim in the story were your neighbor or your friend would you be more willing to act like the Samaritan? So what is Jesus telling us? What is it that makes all people neighbors?
2. Think of the Good Samaritan story in terms of today’s world. How might you care for a person if s/he can’t walk, or needs medical care and bandaging, or needs arrangements for decent shelter?
