First Reading
Reading I: Genesis 22:1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18

1. In Genesis 15:5 God promised Abraham that his descendants would be as numerous as the stars. It is to this promise that Abraham clings as he raises the knife to kill his son. Where do you fall on the continuum, with one being low and ten high, when blind trust is required of you?

2. Is Abraham willing to offer the one he most loves because God asked it? Is God the Father willing to let the one he most loves die in order to sacrifice for humankind? In the end is Isaac willing to be sacrificed? Is Jesus willing to give his life (in union with the Father’s willingness to give everything, even his son) to show how much God loves humankind?

Second Reading
Reading II: Romans 8:31b-34

1. The Old Testament describes “Emmanuel,” as God with us. This reading says God is not only with us, but “for us. Christ … indeed intercedes for us.” Explain how this statement could be a real anti-depressant?

2. How does being “for” someone and intervening for him or her relate to “love your neighbor?”

Gospel
Gospel: Mark 9:2-10

1. It took a blinding light for Peter, James and John to begin to see or understand who Jesus was. Think of some times that you have seen the divine in the ordinary? Share your experiences with others. Think of some areas in your country, Church or life that need to be reconfigured before you would be able to see much of the divine in them. Explain.

2. Why do you think Elijah and Moses were part of this scene?

Anne Osdieck