2 Samuel 7:1-5, 8b-12, 14a, 16
1. We find David embarrassed because he is living in a beautiful dwelling while God’s residence is in “a tent.” David makes plans to build a beautiful house for the Lord. Where might God dwell in today’s world? What about the Church?
2. Compare what David wants to give God with what God has done and promises to do for David. Can you relate to “receiving much more than you give”? What happens to you when you open up to God just a bit?
Second Reading
Romans 16:25-27
1. What was the “mystery kept secret for long ages”? Do you think it was really a secret or possibly was not understood fully until God came to this earth? What does the Incarnation reveal to you about God?
2. This letter from Paul says that God’s saving plan is for “all nations.” If all nations believed his message, what would happen to conflict between nations, global poverty and hunger, social injustice, and agreement of countries to care for creation? Is there anything you can do to brighten up some of this darkness?
Gospel
Luke 1:26-38
1. Why would an infinite God wait for a human “yes” to enter the human race? Why didn’t he just come on his own? Can you relate to Mary’s unconditional “yes” to God, or is your “yes” conditional? Will God come take up residence in your life if you ask?
2. In a General Audience, Pope Francis spoke of Mary as a model of faith. What do his words mean to you: “The Church must bring … the love of Jesus … that shares, that forgives, that accompanies”?
Our Lady also wants to bring the great gift of Jesus to us, to us all; and with him she brings us his love, his peace, and his joy. In this, the Church is like Mary: the Church is not a shop, she is not a humanitarian agency, the Church is not an NGO.* The Church is sent to bring Christ and his Gospel to all. She does not bring herself. Whether small or great, strong or weak, the Church carries Jesus and should be like Mary when she went to visit Elizabeth. What did Mary take to her? Jesus. The Church brings Jesus: this is the centre of the Church, to carry Jesus! … The Church must bring Jesus, the love of Jesus, the charity of Jesus. … Is it the love of Jesus that shares, that forgives, that accompanies, or is it a watered-down love, like wine so diluted that it seems like water
Pope Francis General Audience,
St Peter's Square, October 23, 2013
