First Reading
Isaiah 42:1-4, 6-7

1. The main objective of the Chosen One is to bring God’s salvation to the ends of the earth. How does Isaiah say he will accomplish this mighty enlightening of the world? How does the Church help to accomplish it today? How is Pope Francis helping “to open the eyes of the blind, to bring out prisoners from confinement”?

2. If enlightening the world isn’t in the cards for you, is there one dark corner you can brighten somehow?

Second Reading
Acts 10:34-38

1. We see God’s universal plan of salvation on the banks of the Jordan clearly for the first time. Do you always know the full extent of God’s plan for you? Discuss the possibility of the Spirit making different truths known at different times to different groups of people.

2. Peter said that “in every nation whoever fears him and acts uprightly is acceptable to him.” Were the Israelites no longer special? How do you think Peter would explain Israel’s place in God’s plan?

Gospel
Matthew 3:13-17

1. Was the Trinity present at the baptism of Jesus? Do you think the Father and Holy Spirit were with Jesus throughout his entire earthly life even when he was on the cross? How does that thought make you feel about God the Father and the Holy Spirit? Do you think they are with you even when you feel as though they are absolutely not?

2.  At one of his weekly General Audiences Pope Francis explained that our Baptism “is the point of departure of a journey of conversion that lasts our whole life.” His lit candle signifies the light of Christ that enlightens every person. How can you receive “the light of faith” for your brothers and sisters? In other words, how can you be a light for someone in darkness?

The star appearing in the sky kindled in their minds and in their hearts a light that moved them to seek the great Light of Christ. Baptism illuminates us from within with the light of Jesus. … In virtue of this gift, the baptized are called to become “light” ––the light of the faith they have received for their brothers, especially for those who are in darkness and do not perceive glimmers of light on the horizon of their life. … You must take the grace of Baptism, that is a gift, and become light for all!

Pope Francis: “Take the Grace of Baptism
and Become a Light for All," November 13, 20