THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

BEFORE YOU BEGIN:

Pray and ask God to speak to you through His Holy Spirit.  “THE PARACLETE, THE HOLY SPIRIT WHOM THE FATHER WILL SEND IN MY NAME, WILL INSTRUCT YOU IN EVERYTHING, AND REMIND YOU OF ALL THAT I TOLD YOU.”  (JOHN 14:26)

FIRST DAY  Reread last week’s readings.

1.   What was a helpful or new thought from the readings or from

the homily you heard on Sunday?

 

2.   From what you learned, what personal application did you

choose to apply to your life this week?

 

SECOND DAY            READ PROVERBS 9:1-6         FIRST READING

(“Forsake foolishness that you may live; advance in the way of understanding.”)

1.   What has wisdom done?  Proverbs 9:1-3

 

2.   From where does wisdom come?   Sirach 1:1

 

3.   What is the beginning of wisdom?   Sirach 1:12

 

4.   If we desire wisdom, what must we do?   Sirach 1:23

 

5.   What does wisdom say?  Proverbs 9:4-6

 

6.   What do the simple lack?  Proverbs 9:4

 

7.   What does Paul say about the cross, and what is written about the wise?  1 Corinthians 1:18-19

 

8.   What has God given us, and how has he made known the mystery of his will?  Ephesians 1:7-9

 

9.   What comes from wisdom?  James 3:13.

 

10.  Of what does the wisdom that comes from above consist?  James 3:17.

 

Personal – Do you have the wisdom that comes from above and how does it show itself in your everyday life?

 

THIRD DAY           READ EPHESIANS 5:15-20     SECOND READING

(“…try to understand what is the will of the Lord.”)

1.   What are we to watch carefully?  Ephesians 5:15

 

2.   What are we to do, keeping in mind that these are evil days? Eph. 5:16

 

3.   In what are we not to continue, and what are we to try to understand?  Ephesians 5:17

 

4.   What can alienate we from the life of God?   Ephesians 4:18.

 

5.   How do we discern the will of God?   Romans 12:2.

 

Personal  –  In what way can you see your ignorance of scripture as being a detriment to you? 

 

6.   What are we not to do, and with what are we to be filled? Ephesians 5:18

 

7.   How are we to address one another?  Ephesians 5:19

 

8.   In what ways do we teach and admonish one another, and how are we to do it?   Colossians 3:16.

 

9.   For what are we to give thanks, and in whose name?  Ephesians 5:20

 

10.  In everything we do, in word or in deed, in whose name do we do it?   Colossians 3:17.

 

Personal  –  What are you doing in your everyday life to try to understand the will of God for you personally?

 

FOURTH DAY             READ JOHN 6:51-58                GOSPEL

 (“Whoever eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life.”

1.  Who is speaking and what does he say he is? John 6:43, 51

 

2.   What does Jesus say will happen to those who eat this bread, and what does he specifically say the bread is, and what is it for?  John 6:51

 

3.   What were the Jews doing, and what were they questioning? John 6:52

 

4.   What two things did Jesus say we had to do in order to have life within us?  John 6:53

 

5.   What will happen to him who feeds on his flesh and drinks his blood on the last day?  John 6:54

 

6.   What did Jesus say are his flesh and Blood, and where is a person who eats his flesh and drinks his Blood?  John 6:55-56

 

7.   How do we know whether he remains in us?   1 John 3:24.

 

8.   What did Jesus say the Father is who sent him, and what does he have because of the Father?  John 6:57

 

9.   What will we have if we feed on Jesus?  John 6:57

 

10.  What is not like our ancestors?  John 6:58

 

Personal  –  In what way have you eaten of the body of Christ, and in what way have you drunk from the same cup of blood as Jesus did?

 

FIFTH DAY          READ PSALM 34:2-3, 10-15

(“Turn from evil, and do good; seek peace, and follow after it.”) Read and meditate on Psalm 34:2-3, 10-15.

What is the Lord saying to you personally through the Psalm?

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

SIXTH DAY         READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY   

                        PROVERBS 9:1-6

What the book of Psalms is to devotional life, the book of Proverbs is to everyday life.  Proverbs gives practical suggestions for effective living.  A proverb is a short, wise, easy to learn saying that calls a person to action.  The book of Proverbs focuses on God’s character, his works and his blessings.  We need to focus on how we can live in a close relationship with him.  In today’s chapter, wisdom and foolishness could be portrayed as rival young women, each preparing a feast and inviting people to it.  Wisdom is a responsible person of character.  Wisdom appeals first to the mind and foolishness to the senses.  The number seven represents completeness and perfection.  All were invited to go to the banquet, and many probably intended to go; but many never made it because they got sidetracked by everything else that seemed more important at that time.

 We always need to remember not to let anything else become more important than our search and walk with the Lord. Today there is so much distraction in our lives.  We are being pulled in so many directions.  We hear the call to education, the call to wealth, and the call to fame and power.  We can hardly hear the call to holiness because of so many distractions.  Jesus invites us to his holy banquet of love.  He invites us to feed upon his body and blood and be alive eternally.  Today’s passage is a tremendous reminder that wisdom begins with the reverential fear of the Lord.  This means that fear of missing out on being and partaking in and of the presence of the source of all wisdom and knowledge.  I am, of course, speaking about the presence of God being in our midst. 

You are being challenged today to leave behind all of your foolishness and begin the real experience of being fully human and  alive.  Jesus himself tells us how to achieve this when he said, “I am the way, the truth and the life.” (John 14:6).

 

                       EPHESIANS 5:15-20

Today’s reading really makes us aware that these are difficult days in which we live.  There is a saying that really is on target.  It states that “we live what we really believe.” Today’s passage communicates a sense of urgency because of evil’s pervasiveness.  We need the same type of urgency because our days and nights are for many people difficult, and dangerous.  The need for high moral standards, compassion and wisdom has never been higher than it is today.  We need only to look around us in our different communities just to know what God wants us to do is not enough.  We must become doers of his holy Word.  We must follow our beliefs with the actions of our own lifestyle.  We need to become a people filled with the Holy Spirit, not filled with booze that produces harmful effects.  We have seen the horrors of what happens when people are filled with alcohol and drugs.  When people are filled with the Holy Spirit, they  will become healed, healthy and holy.  Jesus called us to this when he said “I give you not just life but life in all its fullness.”  (John 10:10). 

In the meetings of the early church, the Christians enjoyed speaking to one another.  They talked about how the Lord was affecting their attitudes and actions within their families and sphere of friends and acquaintances.  When you are in a gathering of people do you share what the Lord is doing in your life?  You may be witnessing to someone who is down and finding it very difficult to give thanks.  Your witness or sharing may be just what that person needs to hear.  We can all take heart no matter what is going on around us. God works all things out for good, for those who love him and follow his will.  (Romans 8:28).  Today, right now, thank God; not for your problems, but for the strength that he is building in you through the difficult experiences of your life.

 

                         JOHN 6:51-58

Today’s Gospel challenges us to define what it really means to eat the living bread.  There are many people today who ask the same question, “How can Jesus give us his flesh to eat?” (v. 52).  We are all united with Christ by believing in his death and resurrection.  We are united with him by devoting ourselves to living in accordance with his teachings and trusting in the power of the Holy Spirit.

 The message that Jesus gave was a shocking one, it seems almost cannibalistic.  His statement to eat his flesh and drink his blood seemed to the religious leaders to be in conflict with the law that forbade drinking blood (Lev. 17:10).  Jesus was saying that his life had to become their own. They had to abide in him and he would come and abide with them (John 15:4).

  Jesus was telling them, and he also is telling us today that we who partake of him complete­ly will live forever.  He declares that he is the bread from heaven.  Moses was present when the bread from heaven, the “manna”, was made available.  This bread, while life-giving to the people in the wilderness, was still only temporary.  All of these people eventually died.  Jesus, on the other hand, is saying that the bread he is offering which comes from the Father, through the power of the Holy Spirit, will bring life that never will die.  Jesus is our eternal food and his blood is our eternal life.  We call this the sacrament of Holy Eucharist, the word means thanksgiving.

  To those who do not believe, this is beyond under­standing.  To those in faith who do believe, no explanation is really necessary.  Jesus tells the world that he is the bread of life and anyone who eats this bread shall live forever, and not die as our ancestors did on that plain of wilderness in the desert.  You have been given the food for eternal life in word and sacrament and that is what the Good News is all about.

 

Application 

The first reading tells us that the beginning of wisdom is the fear of the Lord.  The second reading reveals that the way we live is really what we believe.  The Gospel announces that the living bread is Jesus Christ.

This week, show your family that your lifestyle is really a reflection of what you profess in church.  Let them see your wisdom in your reverence for God’s Holy Word and his sacrament or Holy Communion this week.  This week, witness and instruct your family members that only through Jesus can they obtain eternal life.

THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

BEFORE YOU BEGIN:

Pray and ask God to speak to you through His Holy Spirit.  “THE PARACLETE, THE HOLY SPIRIT WHOM THE FATHER WILL SEND IN MY NAME, WILL INSTRUCT YOU IN EVERYTHING, AND REMIND YOU OF ALL THAT I TOLD YOU.”  (JOHN 14:26)

FIRST DAY  Reread last week’s readings.

1.   What was a helpful or new thought from the readings or from

the homily you heard on Sunday?

 

2.   From what you learned, what personal application did you

choose to apply to your life this week?

 

SECOND DAY            READ 1 KINGS 19:4-8         FIRST READING

(“Get up and eat, else the journey will be too long for you.”)

l.   Who went to the desert, and what did he pray for as he sat beneath the tree?   1 Kings 19:3-4

 

2.   Who did Elijah say he was no better than?   1 Kings 19:4

 

3.   Who is another person who told the Lord he wanted to die, and what was the Lord’s response to him?   Jonah 4:6-11

 

4.   What does the Lord say about his ways of doing things? Isaiah 55:8-9

 

5.   What did Elijah lie down and do, who touched him, and what did he order him to do?   1 Kings 19:5

 

6.   What did Elijah find at his head, and for what did the angel of the Lord come back a second time?  1 Kings 19:6-7

 

Personal  –  What has caused you to want to give up and die? Bring it to the Lord and ask him to reveal his truth to you on this situation.

 

7.   What did Elijah get up and do for the second time, and what did it do for him?    1 Kings 19:8

 

8.   Where do we get our strength, and what gives you life? John 6:53

 

9.   How long did Elijah walk, and where was he going? 1 Kings 19:8

 

10.  In what are we to walk or live our life? 2 John 4

 

Personal – How has God provided a way out of a difficult situa­tion for you?

 

THIRD DAY           READ EPHESIANS 4:30-5:2      SECOND READING

(“So be imitators of God, as beloved children.”)

1.   With whom were we sealed for the day of redemption, and whom should you not grieve?    Ephesians 4:30

 

2.   What must be removed from us? Ephesians 4:31, also verse 29

 

3.   What kind of shouting is acceptable?   Psalms 47:1

 

4.   How are we to be toward one another, and what has God done for us in Christ?   Ephesians 4:32

 

5.   What did Jesus say to the Father as he was being crucified? Luke 23:34

 

6.   What do we have in Jesus?   Ephesians 1:7

 

7.   Whom are we to imitate, and what are we to him? Ephesians 5:1 

 

8.   How are we to imitate God?   1 John 2:6

 

9. How are we to live, and how did Christ show his love for us? Ephesians 5:2

 

10.  Whose interest are we to look out for, and how should we regard others?   Philippians 2:3-4

 

Personal – In what way can you take on the attitude of Christ in your home, work, parish, or school?

 

FOURTH DAY             READ JOHN 6:41-51                GOSPEL

(“…the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world.”)

1.   About what were the Jews murmuring?   John 6:41-42

 

2.   What did Jesus tell them to stop doing?   John 6:43

 

3.   How did Jesus say we come to him, and what will he do on the last day?   John 6:44

 

4.   When Jesus was lifted up from this earth, whom did he say he would draw to himself?    John 12:32

 

5.   What is written in the prophets, and who comes to Jesus? John 6:45

 

6.   What shall be great among those taught by God? Isaiah 54:13

 

7.   How do we understand what is taught by God? 1 Corinthians 2:12-13

 

8.   Who has seen the Father?   John 6:46

 

9.   Who has eternal life, and what does Jesus say he is? John 6:47-48

 

10.  What happened to our ancestors, and what is this bread? John 6:49-50

 

11.  Who does Jesus say he is, what will happen to those who eat this bread, and what does Jesus say the bread he gives is? John 6:51

 

Personal – How have you been strengthened by the bread that came down from heaven (Jesus), and in what ways do you partake of his body?  How has Word and sacrament at Mass affected your life?

 

FIFTH DAY              READ PSALM 34:2-9

(“I sought the Lord, and he answered me, and delivered me from all my fears.”) Read and meditate on Psalm 34:2-9.

What is the Lord saying to you personally through the Psalm?

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

SIXTH DAY         READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

                        1 KINGS 19:4-8

Today’s passage shows us how a powerful prophet of the Lord allows fear to cripple him. We see Elijah running from the wicked Queen Jezebel after he had just destroyed her false prophets in a spectacular display of divine power. Elijah experienced the depths of fatigue and discouragement just after his two great victories, the defeat of the prophets of Baal and the answered prayer for rain.

Jezebel’s threat to kill Elijah completely drained him. To lead him out of this state of depression, God let him rest and eat. God then confronted him to get on with his mission in life, and that was to be God’s prophet. Elijah’s battles were far from over, and there was still much work for him to do.

We need to remember that when we feel a letdown after a great spiritual experience, God’s purpose for our life is not yet over.  Elijah fled to the safety and silence of Mt. Horeb, where God met Moses and gave his laws to mankind. God gave Elijah the strength to travel about 200 miles to that great sacred mountain without additional food.  Elijah, like Moses before him and Jesus after him, fasted for forty days and nights. ­Elijah thought he was the only person left who was still true to his calling.  He experienced victory and then discourage­ment, and that made him feel sorry for himself.  When we are tempted to feel we are the only ones remaining faithful, be assured that others are faithful­ly obeying God and carrying out their duties also.

 

                      EPHESIANS 4:30-5:2

Paul tells us in today’s passage that we can grieve the Holy Spirit by the way we live our lives. He warns us against foul language, meanness, improper use of language, quarrels, harsh words and bad attitudes toward others.  We do not have to act this way.  Through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can be forgiving, just as our Lord has forgiven us of our sins.  You need to reflect for a moment, right now. Are you pleasing or grieving God with your words, attitudes and actions?  You tell the world that the Holy Spirit within you is a sign that you belong to God and only God.

The law of Christ is summed up in love and forgiveness. They both are decisions and it is a sign to all that Christ is really present in us when through the power of the Spirit we decide to love and decide to forgive.  God does not forgive us because we forgive others; he forgives us out of his great mercy.  We want to be more like him as we become more open to his Holy Word, and having received his forgiveness, we are open to forgive others. It is very evident that those who are unwilling to forgive have not become one with Christ, who was willing to forgive, even those who crucified him (Luke 23:34).  Our love for others should be a love that goes beyond affection to self-sacrificing service. Jesus loves each one of us like that.

 

                         JOHN 6:41-51

This passage shows that the Jewish leaders, like many people today, judged things by human values and by external standards. Their reaction to Jesus’ claim as to who he was produced the fact that he was only a poor Nazarene who was the son of a poor local carpenter. There was no way that someone who was so ordinary as he could be a special messenger of God.

Today’s Gospel really drives home the point that we should never neglect a message from God, because we do not care for the messenger. God has many messengers. His greatest message came through a Galilean carpenter and for that very reason the Jews disregarded it.  Their appraisal of him as a small town ca­rpenter totally blurred their vision of him and interfered with accepting his claim of divinity.

Today many people reject Christ because they say they cannot believe he is the Son of God. In reality, the claims he makes on their lives are what they really object to.  They deny the messenger in order to protect themselves from the message. The Jewish leaders of Jesus’ time asked the same questions that many people ask today. How can Jesus give us his flesh to eat?  We need to know and believe that to eat his living bread means to unite ourselves with Jesus. We are united with him in several ways. One is by believing in his death and resurrection and by committing ourselves to living as he commanded us. Others include reading daily his Holy Word, by partaking of him in sacramental union and by trusting in the power of his Holy Spirit.

Application

The first reading shows us that God is our refuge, our fortress and our strength (Psalm 91).  The second reading reveals that we need to be, before we do.  The Gospel reveals that God delivers his message through many messengers.

This week, show what you believe by how you live. Show your family that you are in peace by receiving Jesus in the Eucharist, his Holy Word, meditation and Christian fellowship.  Show them that because the Holy Spirit resides in you, you do not have to be afraid of anything or anyone.  Let them see you experience God’s love as you partake of his living bread in Holy Communion.

THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

EIGHTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – CYCLE B

BEFORE YOU BEGIN:

Pray and ask God to speak to you through His Holy Spirit.  “THE PARACLETE, THE HOLY SPIRIT WHOM THE FATHER WILL SEND IN MY NAME, WILL INSTRUCT YOU IN EVERYTHING, AND REMIND YOU OF ALL THAT I TOLD YOU.”  (JOHN 14:26)

FIRST DAY  Reread last week’s readings.

1. What was a helpful or new thought from the readings or from the homily you heard on Sunday?

 

2. From what you learned, what personal application did you choose to apply to your life this week?

 

SECOND DAY          READ EXODUS 16:2-4, 12-15       FIRST READING

       (“I will now rain down bread from heaven for you.”)

1. Against whom were the Israelite community grumbling, and about what were they grumbling?  Exodus 16:2-3, Exodus 16:8 

 

2. What happened to some of them by grumbling and complaining? 1 Cor. 10:9-10

 

3. What did Jesus tell the people?  John 6:43

 

Personal  –  In what way have you been complaining to someone else when in reality your complaint is toward God?

 

4. What did the Lord say to Moses, and why was he testing them? Exodus 16:4

 

5. How do we know for sure that we know God? 1 John 2:3-5

 

6. What did the Lord tell Moses he heard, what did he give them, and for what reason did he do this?  Exodus 16:12

 

7. What came in the evening and the morning?  Exodus 16:13-14

 

8. What did the people say, and what did Moses tell them? Exodus 16:15

 

9. When we ask God for something, when does he give it to us? 1 John 5:14-15

 

10.  Why do we ask for only what we need? Proverbs 30:8-9

 

Personal – How has God provided you with what you needed even though all you have been doing is grumbling to others about your needs?

 

THIRD DAY          READ EPHESIANS 4:17, 20-24     SECOND READING         (“…be renewed in the spirit of your minds.”

1. To what does Paul declare and testify?  Ephesians 4:17

 

2. What happens to the mind when we refuse to honor God and thank him? Romans 1:21 

 

3. If we learned Christ and were taught in him,what did we learn? Eph.4:20-21

 

4. What comes through Jesus?   John 1:17

 

5. Of what should we get rid?   Ephesians 4:22

 

6. How should we be renewed?   Ephesians 4:23

 

7. How can we be alienated from the life of God? Ephesians 4:18

 

8. In what is the new self created? Ephesians 4:24

 

9. What do we stop doing to one another, and in what is the new self renewed? Colossians 3:9-10

 

10. What does the new self put on?  Colossians 3:12-14

 

Personal –  Identify some of the characteristics of your old self and of your new self.  When did the change take place, and what caused it?

 

FOURTH DAY              READ JOHN 6:24-35                GOSPEL

(“Jesus explained… I myself am the bread of life.”)

1. Who was looking for Jesus, and what did they say to him when they found him? John 6:24-25

 

2. Why did Jesus say they were looking for him?  John 6:26

 

3. For what did Jesus tell them to work, who is offering it to them, and what has God set on him?   John 6:27 

 

4. What did Jesus say his food is?   John 4:34

 

5. What did the people say to Jesus, and what was his response to them? John 6:28-29

 

6. What did they ask him to give them so they could see and believe in him?   John 6:30

 

7. What did they say their ancestors were given, and who did Jesus say gives true bread from heaven?  John 6:31-32

 

8. What does the bread of God do?  John 6:33

 

9. For what did the people ask, and what did Jesus give them? John 6:34-35

 

10. Who will never go hungry, and who will never thirst? John 6:35

 

Personal –  Compare the time you take to work for the food on your table and the time you take for food for your soul.  How can you spend more time on working for heavenly food?

 

FIFTH DAY         READ PSALM 78:3-4, 23-25, 54

   (“He rained manna upon them and gave them heavenly bread.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 78:3-4, 23-25, 54.

What is the Lord saying to you personally through the Psalm?

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

SIXTH DAY          READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

                      EXODUS 16:2-4, 12-15

The description of the wilderness of sin was that it was a place of barrenness, rocks, sand and stone. The temperature was brutally hot, and it was windy during the day, and dry and frigid during the night. It was a perfect place for God to test and shape the character of his people. The Israelites were complain­ing once again about the dangers and inconveniences they experi­enced since leaving Egypt.  They longed to be back in Egypt, and they even forgot the horror of their slavery there.

We have all experienced circumstances that cause stress, and the natural response is to complain. The Israelites were not focusing on the cause of their stress, and that was their lack of trust in God. Many times we are like that and concentrate too much on what is bothering us and not enough on who is protecting and healing us. The Israelites were doing what many people do today, and that is to think about the quickest way to escape from the problem.  Remember, when pressure comes your way, resist the temptation to make a quick escape like running away or going back. Instead, concentrate in prayer on God’s power and wisdom to help you deal with the cause of your stress.

God promised to meet the Hebrew’s needs for food in the wilderness, but he decided to test their obedience. He has promised us eternal food, but he also calls us to obey him. We can learn obedience only by obeying his commandments. Jesus has commanded us to love one another, as he has loved us (John 13:34). We will be able to deal with the most barren wilderness ever imagined if only we remember that he is with us and will never leave us (Matthew 28:20).

                    

EPHESIANS 4:17, 20-24

The way we live is really what we believe, and to be called a Christian, one should live like Christ.  People should be able to see the difference between a Christian and a non-Christian, simply because of the way a Christian lives.  In today’s reading, Paul is telling the Ephesians to leave behind that old life of sin now that they are followers of Christ. He is telling us that same message today.

The Christian life is a process that con­tinually leads a person into a deeper personal relationship with Jesus Christ. When Jesus Christ becomes the Lord of our life, we find that our thoughts and attitudes make a dramatic change for the better.  We keep changing all the time as we continue to listen to God. Paul tells us to put off the “old person” as if it were an old suit of clothes and to put on the “new person” as if it were a new suit.

As you look over the past year, do you see a process of change for the better in your thoughts, actions and attitudes? Although change may seem slow to you, it comes about if you trust God to change you. The old person was a person who was responsive to thoughts, actions and attitudes of evil. The new person that you are in Christ should consider yourself dead and unresponsive to evil desires, sexual sin, impurity, lustful desires, and material­ism.  We find through experience that this is never easy, so we must make a conscious, daily decision to live according to God’s values and to rely completely on the power of the Holy Spirit.

Paul appeals to the believers of all ages to uphold the commitment made in their baptism and urges them to remain true to their confession of faith. Guided by the Holy Spirit we have cast off the old life and put on the new life in Christ. This is what people see when they look at a Christian.  What do people see when they look at you?

 

                          JOHN 6:24-35

In today’s Gospel, Jesus is very direct in his reply to the waiting crowd of people. He tells them that they were blessed to see how God’s grace enabled a large crowd to be fed with just a small amount of food. He goes on to tell them that their thoughts should be turned to God who did these great things, instead of just thinking about receiving more bread. He tells them not to spend so much time and energy getting food which perishes and instead strive for the food which lasts forever and gives eternal life.

Jesus is speaking about two kinds of hunger. There is a physical hunger which physical food can satisfy and a spiritual hunger which that food can never satisfy. He was pointing out to them that all they were really interested in was physical satis­faction. Jesus wanted them to be aware of the other hunger which can be satisfied only by him. There is the hunger for truth, and in him alone is the truth of God. There is the hunger for life, and in him alone is the abundant life. There is the hunger for love, and in him alone is the love that outlasts even death. We need to remember always that Christ alone can satisfy the hunger of the human heart and soul.

We are told in this scripture that God has set his seal on him and that seal of God is truth. The seal of God has been placed upon all who believe in Jesus Christ, and that seal of truth was placed there by the Holy Spirit. In the ancient world it was not the signature but the seal that gave anything its proper value. We know that the truth of God is the beginning, the middle and the end of life. That is why Jesus can satisfy the eternal hunger. He is sealed by God, he is God’s truth Incarnate, and it is God alone who can truly satisfy the hunger of the soul which he created.

Application

The first reading reveals that the spiritual response to stress is obedience to God. The second reading shows that what we believe is the way we live.  The Gospel shows that only Jesus can satisfy the eternal hunger.

This week, feed upon God’s Word when the hunger pains of temptation or stress attack you.  Remember, Jesus can satisfy your hunger through prayer, reading his Word, receiving the sacraments, and Christian fellowship.  Let him be the bread of life for you every day, and you will see a dramatic improvement in your spiritual and physical health.

THE BREAD OF LIFE CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

SEVENTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – CYCLE B

 BEFORE YOU BEGIN:

 Pray and ask God to speak to you through His Holy Spirit.  “THE PARACLETE, THE HOLY SPIRIT WHOM THE FATHER WILL SEND IN MY NAME, WILL INSTRUCT YOU IN EVERYTHING, AND REMIND YOU OF ALL THAT I TOLD YOU.”  (JOHN 14:26)

Application

 The first reading tells us that accountability is for all the people.  The second reading shows us that Jesus Christ breaks down all barriers.  The gospel reveals that too much doing leaves too little being.

 This week, take time to be rather than just to do. Spend some time with a family member, friend or associate, and concen­trate on the other person’s needs, not your own. Every day, spend time alone in prayer and reading scripture with Jesus.

 Take time to relax and rest with your family. Remember, a devoted Christian is a balanced Christian.

FIRST DAY  Reread last week’s readings.

 1.   What was a helpful or new thought from the readings or from the homily you heard on Sunday?

 

 2.   From what you learned, what personal application did you choose to apply to your life this week?

 

SECOND DAY            READ 2 KINGS 4:42-44         FIRST READING

                (“Give it to the people to eat,”)

1.   What was brought to the man of God?  2 Kings 4:42

  

2.   What did Elisha tell them to do with what they brought him? 2 Kings 4:42

  

3.   What did Elisha’s servant say to him?  2 Kings 4:43

  

4.   What did Elisha insist the servant do, and for what reason? 2 Kings 4:43

  

5.   What did Jesus say about himself, and how does he say we will never hunger or thirst?   John 6:35

  

6.   What did Jesus say is true food and true drink, and what will happen to whoever eats and drinks this? John 6:55-56

  

7.   What happened to those who had eaten, and who said this would happen?   2 Kings 4:44

 

8.   What should we do with our surplus, and for what reason? 2 Corinthians 8:14-15

 

9.   About what are we not to worry, and what are we to seek? Matthew 6:31-33

 

10.  What is the question asked in Matthew 6:26?

 

Personal  –  In what way can you increase your faith in God regarding food?

  

THIRD DAY             READ EPHESIANS 4:1-6  SECOND READING

(“…striving to preserve the unity of the spirit through the bond of peace.”)

1.   What does Paul say he is in the Lord, and how is he urging us to live our life?  Ephesians 4:1

 

2.   For whose sake did Paul make himself a prisoner of Christ Jesus?Ephesians 3:1

 

3.   How are we to bear with one another?  Ephesians 4:2

 

4.   For what are we to strive, and how are we to do it? Ephesians 4:3

 

5.   What binds us together?   Colossians 2:2

 

6.   Of what is there only one, and to what were we all called? Eph. 4:4-5

 

7.   Where do we put our hope?  Psalm 119:114

 

8.   How do we abound in hope?  Romans 15:13

 

9.   Where is the one God and Father of all?  Ephesians 4:6

 

10.  From whom are all things, for whom, and through whom; and who is to be given glory?  Romans 11:36

 

Personal –  In what way can you become one within your family, friends and church?   Referring to Ephesians 4:2, see how you can specifically apply this where there is disunity.

 

FOURTH DAY              READ JOHN 6:1-15                 GOSPEL

(“Gather the fragments left over, so that nothing will be wasted.”)

1.   Why was a large crowd following Jesus, and where did Jesus go?   John 6:1-3

 

2.   What question did Jesus ask Philip, and why did he ask him this?John 6:4

 

3.   What was Philip’s response, and what did Andrew say to him? John 6:7-9

 

4.   What did Jesus have the people do, and how many men were there?John 6:10

 

5.   What two things did Jesus do with the loaves?  John 6:11

 

Personal  –  In what way do you give thanks for the food God has provided?  How do you distribute it to others?  What do you do with leftovers?

 

6.   What did Jesus have his disciples do with the leftovers, and for what reason?  John 6:12-13

 

7.   What did the people say about Jesus when they saw what he had done?    John 6:14

 

8.   Why did Jesus withdraw alone to the mountain?  John 6:15

 

9.   For what reason did Jesus not want them to make him king? John 18:36

 

10.  Who tried to tempt Jesus with all the kingdoms of the world? Matthew 4:8-9

 

Personal –  In what way have others tried to put you in a posi­tion that you know is not where God is leading you?  How have you dealt with this?

 

FIFTH DAY          READ PSALM 145:10-11, 15-18

(“The eyes of all look hopefully to you, and you give them their food in due season.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 145:10-11, 15-18.

What is the Lord saying to you personally through the Psalm?

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

SIXTH DAY          READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY 

2 KINGS 4:42-44

Today’s reading shows us that, like all the prophets, Elisha acts out God’s word as well as he speaks it.  Elisha was well aware that the amount of food that he had on hand was not enough to feed the hungry crowd. His disciple told him in no uncertain terms that there was no way the crowd was going to be fed enough food. Elisha used the phrase, “For thus says the Lord,” in verse 43, and this is his basis for relying on the promises of almighty God. In faith he stood on the word of God and acted upon that holy word.

This entire passage emphasizes the incredible hope and power in the fulfillment of the divine word. Elisha had his assistant carry out his command and feed the hungry crowd, and sure enough, there was not only plenty for all, but there was even some food left over for the poor.

A vital sign in today’s message is the faith of Elisha and the obedience of doing what God commands. Elisha was a tremendous witness to that crowd because he obeyed God and was not afraid of what looked like an impossibility. Today we need to draw strength from Elisha’s example, and remember it is the same loving, compas­sionate God who wants us to be nourished and made whole and healthy. Like Elisha, we need to reach out and in faith obey God’s holy word. Not only will we be fed, but we will find that there will be leftovers for us to feed others in his holy name.

 

EPHESIANS 4:1-6

This passage reveals to us that our unity is a sacramental sign of the church’s foundations. The one Body-Spirit-Hope-Lord-Faith-Baptism-Father make us all one. Paul tells us that we are all parts of the one body, and we have been given many gifts and abilities.  He also tells us that unity does not just happen; we all have to work at it.

Paul challenges us to live worthy of the name “Christian.” This name means belonging to Jesus Christ. Belonging means taking on the whole character of Christ which consists of being gentle, patient, understanding, forgiving, and peaceful. Every day wherever we go, people are observing us. Can they see Christ in us?   Paul’s message was written in prison, and today he speaks to all of us who are in some ways locked up in different kinds of prisons.  He tells us that no matter where we are or where we go, we go as Christ’s representative.

We know that no one is ever going to be perfect here on earth, so we must accept and love one another as Christians in spite of other people’s faults. We need to be especially loving to fellow believers. We need to be patient and gentle with someone whose actions or personality annoys us. It is very impor­tant that we do not dwell on that person’s weakness. Rather we can pray for that person and spend some time together buil­ding trust.

Unity in Christ is where the Holy Spirit wants to lead us, but we have to be willing to be led. We can do that by focusing on God’s will that we all be one in him. We can do that by loving one another as Jesus has loved us  (John 13:34).

 

JOHN 6:1-15

Jesus shows us the Father’s love and generosity in action. He shows us that the miraculous abundance of food reveals the abundance of divine love. At the sight of the crowd, Jesus knew that he and his disciples were not going to have any time for rest and meditation. He saw how hungry and tired the crowd was and turned to Philip and asked whether there was any place nearby where food could be purchased. Philip gave all the correct reasons why this request was impossible to fill.  Philip looked at what could not be done and Jesus looked at what could be done.

A small boy was found with a few loaves of barley bread and a few pickled sardines. Barley bread was the cheapest of all bread and was held in contempt by many. Barley bread was the bread of the very poor. The fishes were no bigger than sardines and were pickled to keep them from spoiling. There was no other way to transport the fish and keep them in an eatable condition.

Jesus took this very humble source of food and gave thanks to his Father for it. He then blessed the bread, broke it and dis­tributed it. The crowd was filled completely, and enough was left over to bring to the poor in town.

Today, Jesus takes all of the losers, rejects, outcasts, and sinners, and sets us down to feed us with his body and blood. He does not give us barley; he gives us himself, and he gives himself to all who come forward and say, “I hunger and thirst.” His food gives us the strength and courage to love, to  forgive and to feed his lambs. They are in our families, our communities, our countries and all around the world.

Today Jesus tells us to feed his poor, just like he told Peter (John 21:15-17).  Today Jesus asks us the same question he asked Peter, “Do you love me?”  We are called to do just as Peter did, and that is to feed his sheep.

 

Application

In the first reading Elisha not only spoke God’s Word, he also acted on it.  We see in the second reading that unity does not mean uniformity, it means One in Christ.  The Gospel reveals that we are to feed others with God’s Word and our love.

This week, be a person of action and see where you need to put aside petty differences to achieve unity in your family, with your co-workers, in your school and in your parish activities. Remember, we can not feed his sheep if we are too busy feeding ourselves.

THE BREAD OF LIFE
CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

SIXTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – CYCLE B

BEFORE YOU BEGIN:

Pray and ask God to speak to you through His Holy Spirit. “THE PARACLETE, THE HOLY SPIRIT WHOM THE FATHER WILL SEND IN MY NAME, WILL INSTRUCT YOU IN EVERYTHING, AND REMIND YOU OF ALL THAT I TOLD YOU.” (JOHN 14:26)

Application

The first reading tells us that God uses ordinary people for extraordinary service. The second reading shows that God wants everyone under the heavens to enjoy his holy grace. The Gospel reveals that all Christians will be held accountable to Jesus Christ.

This week, be accountable to everyone in your family. Let your family be blessed by your presence and actions. Let your everyday events be filled with your joy and humility.

FIRST DAY Reread last week’s readings.

1. What was a helpful or new thought from the readings or from the homily you heard on Sunday?

 

2. From what you learned, what personal application did you choose to apply to your life this week?

 

SECOND DAY READ JEREMIAH 23:1-6 FIRST READING

(“As king he shall reign and govern wisely, he shall do what is just and right in the land.”)

1. What does the Lord say will happen to those who are shepherds and mislead and scatter the flock? Jeremiah 23:1-2

 

2. What does the shepherd who knows no discretion go after? Isaiah 56:11

 

3. What does the Lord say about those shepherds who pasture themselves? Ezekiel 34:1-2

 

Personal – In what way have you made a judgment on leaders in the church, and what do you need to do to rectify it?

 

4. What does the Lord say he will do for the remnants of his flock, and what will they do? Jeremiah 23:3

 

5. What will the Lord appoint or raise up for the flock, what will they no longer have need to do, and how many shall be lost? Jeremiah 23:4

 

6. What did the Son of Man come to do? Luke 19:10

 

7. What does the Lord say he will raise up, and what shall he do? Jeremiah 23:5

 

8. What will happen to Judah and Israel, and what is the name they will give him? Jeremiah 23:6

 

9. How is the king’s throne made firm? Proverbs 25:5

 

10. How will the Good Shepherd pasture his sheep? Ezekiel 34:14-16

 

Personal – In what way has Jesus drawn you to himself personally?

 

THIRD DAY READ EPHESIANS 2:13-18 SECOND READING

(“He came and preached the Good News of peace to you who were far off, and peace to those who were near.”)

1. How have we been brought close to one another? Ephesians 2:13

 

2. What did Jesus do through his flesh? Ephesians 2:14

 

3. What did Jesus make for us by the blood of his cross? Colossians 1:20

 

4. How was peace established? Ephesians 2:15

 

5. How were both circumcised (Jew) and uncircumcised (Gentile), reconciled to God? Ephesians 2:16

 

6. What has God given us through Christ? 2 Corinthians 5:18

 

7. What did Christ come preaching, and to whom did he preach? Ephesians 2:17

 

8. Where did Jesus say we will find peace, and what has Jesus done with the world? John 16:33

 

9. How do we have access to the Father? Ephesians 2:18

 

10. What must we have in Jesus that gives us boldness and confidence? Ephesians 3:12

 

Personal – How do you approach the Father in prayer? In what way are you at peace with yourself and those around you?

 

FOURTH DAY READ MARK 6:30-34 GOSPEL

(“…and he began to teach them many things.”)

1. With whom did the Apostles gather together, and what did they tell him? Mark 6:30

 

2. What are the names of Jesus’ Apostles? Matthew 10:2

 

3. What did Jesus say to his Apostles, and what was keeping them from even eating? Mark 6:31

 

4. What day did God give to Moses as a designated day of rest? Exodus 31:15

 

5. What does Jesus say he will do for the tired and weary? Matthew 11:28-29

 

Personal – Where do you go, and what do you do when you are tired?

 

6. Where did Jesus and his Apostles go, and what did the people do? Mark 6:32-33

 

7. What was Jesus’ reaction to the vast crowd when he got out of the boat? Mark 6:34

 

8. On whom does the Lord have pity? Psalm 72:13

 

9. To whom are the people being compared, and what did Jesus do for them? Mark 6:34

 

10. Who teaches us and reminds us of what Jesus says? John 14:26

 

Personal – On a daily basis, in what way do you go to the Lord for direction in your life? Is your tiredness from caring for others or from caring for yourself? Reflect on this.

 

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 23:1-6

(“Beside restful waters he leads me; he refreshed my soul.”) Read and meditate on Psalm 23:1-6.

What is the Lord saying to you personally through the Psalm?

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

SIXTH DAY READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

JEREMIAH 23:1-6

Today’s reading was an indictment against not only the civil leaders, but also against the religious leaders. Jeremiah lashed out at the religious leaders and told them that they were going to be held responsible by God for not showing his people how to follow the path of goodness. Jeremiah then gave his people a warning that certainly holds true for all of us today. Jeremiah’s warning was that all leader¬s would be held responsible for those entrusted to their care. Take a moment right now and reflect on whom God has placed in your care, and how you are handling this responsibility.

Jeremiah really shows us the contrast between the corrupt spiritual leaders of his time and with the coming Messiah. He then goes on to tell us that the new spiritual king would come from the line of a shepherd called David. The major cause of the corruption of the people was the false prophets who told the people that all was well and that they were very civilized and humane. Jeremiah’s message from God was very unpopular because it showed the people how sinful they really were.

Today there are many false prophets running around the world trying to “tickle” the people’s ears with the same message that all is well. These false prophets may talk God’s message but they do not live his message. They may even look like they are living the message, but the proof will be in their daily actions. We can judge today’s prophets just like they did in the time of Jeremiah, and that is seeing how they live, teach, and preach in accordance with God’s holy word. The false prophets water down God’s message to make it easier to swallow. They encourage their followers to subtly disobey God, the church and civil authority. They try to appeal to the desires of their audience instead of being true to God’s holy word.

EPHESIANS 2:13-18

This reading shows us that only the peace of Christ can bring down the barriers of distrust. We have seen how the Jews despised and hated the Gentiles and through Christ that hatred is killed and a new unity has come. Before Christ’s coming, Gentiles and Jews kept apart from each other. Jews considered Gentiles beyond God’s saving power and therefore, without hope. Gentiles resented Jewish claims of spiritual superiority. Christ revealed the sinfulness of both Jews and Gentiles, and then he offered his salvation equally to both.

Only Christ breaks down the walls of prejudice and unites all in one body. Spiritual pride is very much alive today and binds us to our own faults and magnifies the faults of others. Do not be proud of your salvation. Instead, humbly thank God for what he has done, and encourage others not to give up. Jesus has broken down the walls people build between themselves. (Real reconciliation comes when one realizes that because Christ died that all might be free, then all who believe in him really are one family.) The walls come down when we approach God through his Holy Spirit.

The barriers that divide us from other Christians today are age, appearance, political and economic status, race, creed and color. The cross of Christ should be the focus of our unity. The Holy Spirit will help us to stretch ourselves beyond the barriers to the unity we are called to enjoy. The Jews were “near” to God because they already knew him through scripture and worship. The Gentiles were “far away” because they knew little or nothing about God. Neither group could be saved by good works or sin¬cerity. In fact, salvation is available only through Jesus Christ. It is this incredible gift of Christ dying on the cross for all people that has made the gift of freedom available to all.

MARK 6:30-34

Today’s Gospel shows us that we need to be balanced in all that we do, especially when we are doing the work of the Lord. We see the Apostles trying to share with Jesus all of their exper¬iences and the crowd seems to be pressing in on them. Jesus recognizes that his disciples need rest, and he invites them to come with him and take some time out for rest and meditation. The crowds saw where they were headed and ran ahead to be there when they arrived. We cannot work effectively unless we have our time of rest, and rest and sleep will not come unless we have worked until we are tired.

Today’s passage reveals to us two dangers of life. First, there is the danger of doing too much. No man or woman can work without proper rest and quiet time in prayer with God. Much of the trouble in our own lives is that we do not know how to be still and listen (Psalm 46:10). We need to ask ourselves how we can do God’s work without God’s strength in us. And how can we receive that strength unless we take the time to be alone and pour out our needs, and spend time in prayer and praise with Jesus Christ.

Then we also must recognize the second danger, and that is the danger of too much withdrawal. Prayer time that does not lead to action is not real prayer. Remember, in scripture Jesus did not pray for the disciples to be taken out of the world. He prayed that they would win over the world (John 17:11-19). We must never seek the fellowship of God in order to avoid the fellowship of man. Jesus knew his disciples needed rest because the crowds were going to be draining their strength again. He knows how weak we are, and he invites us to spend time alone with him. He will heal us and give us the rest and strength we need. A sheep without a shepherd has no defense against the dangers which threaten it. He is our Good Shepherd and we shall not want (Psalm 23:1).

Application

The first reading tells us that accountability is for all the people. The second reading shows us that Jesus Christ breaks down all barriers. The gospel reveals that too much doing leaves too little being.

This week, take time to be rather than just to do. Spend some time with a family member, friend or associate, and concen¬trate on the other person’s needs, not your own. Every day, spend time alone in prayer and reading scripture with Jesus.

Take time to relax and rest with your family. Remember, a devoted Christian is a balanced Christian.

THE BREAD OF LIFE
CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

FIFTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – CYCLE B

BEFORE YOU BEGIN:

Pray and ask God to speak to you through His Holy Spirit. “THE PARACLETE, THE HOLY SPIRIT WHOM THE FATHER WILL SEND IN MY NAME, WILL INSTRUCT YOU IN EVERYTHING, AND REMIND YOU OF ALL THAT I TOLD YOU.” (JOHN 14:26)

FIRST DAY Reread last week’s readings.

1. What was a helpful or new thought from the readings or from the homily you heard on Sunday?

 

2. From what you learned, what personal application did you choose to apply to your life this week?

 

SECOND DAY READ AMOS 7:12-15 FIRST READING

(“The Lord took me from following the flock, and said to me, ‘Go, prophesy to my people Israel’.”)

l. Who was Amos, and who was Amaziah? Amos 1:1, 7:10

 

2. What did Amaziah call Amos, and what did he tell him to do? Amos 7:12

 

3. What did Saul say to his servant about the man of God? 1 Samuel 9:7

 

4. Why did Amaziah tell Amos not to prophesy in Bethel? Amos 7:13

 

5. Where did Jacob set up a memorial stone, and what is it called? Genesis 28:18-22

 

6. What was Amos’ reply to Amaziah? Amos 7:14

 

7. Who took Amos from the flock, and what did he say to him? Amos 7:15

 

8. What did God do to Amos and David that was similar? 2 Samuel 7:8

 

9. Who are others whom God called to prophesy? Exodus 7:1 and Jeremiah 26:12

 

Personal – Just as Amos was called by God from being a shepherd to being a prophet, how has God taken you from one place to another? Have you ever wanted to say something to a family member or a friend, but hesitated because you knew it was some¬thing they did not want to hear? What can you do about it?

 

THIRD DAY READ EPHESIANS 1:3-14 SECOND READING

(“In him we were also chosen.”)

1. With what has God blessed us? Ephesians 1:3

 

2. When did God choose us, and what did he choose us to be? Ephesians 1:4

 

3. What did he destine us to become through Jesus Christ, and what has he granted us? Ephesians 1:5-6

 

4. How have we been redeemed and forgiven of our sins? Ephesians 1:7, also 1 Peter 1:18-19

 

5. What has God made known to us? Ephesians 1:8-10

 

Personal – What is the mystery God has revealed to you, and how have you made it known to those around you?

 

6. Of what is this the time, and what are we to do? Mark 1:15

 

7. How were we chosen, and according to whose will? Ephesians 1:11

 

8. Why do we exist? Ephesians 1:12

 

9. What have we heard and believed, and with what have we been sealed? Ephesians 1:13

 

10. Whom does the world not accept? John 14:17

 

11. What is the Holy Spirit to us? Ephesians 1:14

 

Personal – What is the inheritance you have received from God? List the ways God has been a good Father to you.

 

FOURTH DAY READ MARK 6:7-13 GOSPEL

(“So they went off and preached repentance.”)

1. How did Jesus send out the twelve, and over what did he give them authority? Mark 6:7

 

2. How and where did Jesus send the seventy-two? Luke 10:1

 

3. What was Jesus’ instructions to the twelve? Mark 6:8

 

4. How are we instructed? Romans 15:4

 

5. What did Jesus tell his disciples they could wear, and what were they instructed not to take? Mark 6:9

 

6. For what are your feet prepared with shoes? Eph. 6:15

 

7. What did Jesus tell the twelve to do when they entered a house, and what if they were not listened to or welcomed by the host? Mark 6:10-11

 

Personal – Share with someone a time when your message of the Good News was accepted and a time when you had to shake the dust from your feet.

 

8. What did the twelve go off and preach? Mark 6:12

 

9. What was granted us through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ? Acts 5:30-31

 

10. What did the twelve drive out of people, and for what did they use the oil? Mark 6:13

 

11. What did the Good Samaritan pour over the beaten man’s wounds? Luke 10:34

 

Personal – In what way have you brought the message of repen¬tance to those around you? Who gives you the authority to do this, and how did you receive it?

 

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 85:9-14

(“I will hear what God proclaims.”) Read and meditate on Psalm 85:9-14.

What is the Lord saying to you personally through the Psalm?

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

SIXTH DAY READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

AMOS 7:12-15

Many times prophets like Amos were seen as traitors because they spoke out against a corrupt ruling authority. They saw the prophet as an enemy rather than one who exposed sin and tried to help save the people of that nation. In today’s reading we see Amaziah, the chief priest in Israel, becoming very defensive about maintaining his position, which he felt was more important than listening to the truth. Amos, on the other hand, said, “Yes, Lord” to being a prophet without any special preparation, educa¬tion or upbringing. Amos humbly obeyed God’s call to “go and prophesy to my people Israel.” Amos responded well to the test that all of God’s faithful servants have to experience.

The test that faced Amos and all other martyrs and saints in our time of salvation history is obedience. Today the core of love is obedie¬nce, and to be obedient is to be a holy person. Jesus was obedien¬t, even unto death on a Cross (Philippians 2:5-11) for us. Amos shows us the incredible power that comes from being obedient to God’s will.

Amos had just been expelled from the church by the high priest, Amaziah. The high priest told him to go earn his bread some place else. He implied very strongly that Amos was a prophet for hire, because he did not want to hear Amos reveal the truth. Amos tells him in no uncertain terms that he is not an oppor¬tunist, nor does he keep company with evil people. Amos goes on to tell the high priest that he is just an ordinary man who makes a living as a shepherd and a dresser of sycamore trees. He tells him that the Lord took him from his everyday life and told him to go and prophesy to the people of Israel. Amos knew the dangers of this type of vocation, and yet in obedience he said, “Yes, Lord.”

We too have been called simply because God has chosen each one of us, and he knows each one of us by name. Like Amos, we, too, are called to a vocation, and we are being called to go forth and make disciples of all nations (Math. 28:19). We are strongest when in obedience we say, “Yes, Lord.”

EPHESIANS 1:3-14

Paul wrote this passage from inside the walls of a Roman prison to the church at Ephesus. He wanted them to nurture and maintain the unity within the new and growing church. Ephesus was a commercial, political, and religious center for all of Asia Minor.

We see the beginning of heaven as being wherever God is, and, therefore, every blessing in heaven had tremendous meaning. We can be very grate¬ful for all the good things that God gives us – salvation, the gifts of the Holy Spirit, power to do God’s will. We can live with the hope of eternity with Christ. We do not have to wait until we die to enjoy these blessings, as they are ours to enjoy now. We are told that “God chose us” to emphasize that the offer of salvation depends totally on God. We are not saved because we deserve to be saved, but because God is so gracious and freely gives salvation to us.

There is no way to take credit for God’s forgiveness or to find room for pride. God chose us and that makes us separate from the world. We have been chosen, and the choice to respond to his incredible gift is left up to each one of us. God chose us and when we belong to him through Jesus Christ, we are transformed into a new creation. God has adopted us through the death and resurrec¬tion of Jesus to be his very own children. He has brought us into his family and made us heirs along with Jesus (Rom. 8:17). It was the blood of Jesus that gave us redemption and forgive¬ness. Redemption is the price paid to gain freedom for a slave (Lev. 25:47-54). Jesus, through his death, paid the price to release us from our slavery to sin. We see that forgiveness was granted in the Old Testament on the basis of the shedding of the animal’s blood (Lev.17:11).

You and I are now forgiven on the basis of the shedding of Jesus’ blood. We cannot be saved without the incredible, volun¬tary, and loving gift of God’s holy grace. When you feel that your life is not very important to anyone, it is very important to remember that you have been chosen, that he has paid the price for you, and that you are a special gift in God’s eye. You are a precious present that brings him much joy. After all, you are family.

MARK 6:7-13

Jesus sent out his disciples in pairs so that as they evangelized, they could strengthen and encourage each other. He knew that many times they would face rejection and needed the support of a fellow believer. Our strength comes from God, but he meets many of our needs through teamwork with others. Jesus told the disciples to take nothing with them except the bare necessi¬ties. He wanted them to rely completely on his power. He told them not to move around from house to house but to be steady and clear with their message.

The custom for pious Jews at that time was to shake the dust from their feet after going through Gentile cities or towns. This was to show their separation from Gentile influences and prac¬tices. The disciples showed by dusting their feet after leaving a Jewish town that the people had rejected Jesus and his message.

Jesus made it clear that the people themselves were respon¬sible for their response to his message. The disciples were not to blame if the message was not accepted by the people. They were responsible for how faithfully and carefully they presented the message.

Today we are not responsible when others reject the teach¬ings of Jesus Christ and even reject Christ personally. But we do have the responsibility to share the message of hope, the Good News, with others. We have been called by Christ to go forth and make disciples of all people. We, too, are called today to go forth and cast out demons and heal sick people. The chal¬lenge you and I must face is – do we really believe in the message of the Good News? We need to shake off the dust and move away from that place that does not know or agree that Jesus Christ is our Lord and Savior. The unbelievers need to see that we are willing to lose friends, money, family, and even personal health before we would deny our Lord and Savior. The message is loud and clear, “I have given you every blessing under the heavens (Eph. 1:3).

Application

The first reading tells us that God uses ordinary people for extraordinary service. The second reading shows that God wants everyone under the heavens to enjoy his holy grace. The Gospel reveals that all Christians will be held accountable to Jesus Christ.

This week, be accountable to everyone in your family. Let your family be blessed by your presence and actions. Let your everyday events be filled with your joy and humility.

FOURTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

CYCLE B

BEFORE YOU BEGIN: Pray and ask God to speak to you through His Holy Spirit.

“THE PARACLETE, THE HOLY SPIRIT WHOM THE FATHER WILL SEND IN MY NAME, WILL INSTRUCT YOU IN EVERYTHING, AND REMIND YOU OF ALL THAT I TOLD YOU.” (JOHN 14:26)

Application

The first reading tells us that God does not make junk. The second reading shows us that our actions speak louder than words. The Gospel reveals God’s presence in all situations.

This week, by your actions, show what it is that you really believe. Look for specific ways to be humble to your family, like the ruler in the synagogue. Make a decision to put your family members’ interests before your own. Share the Good News of the Gospel with each member of your family. Love one another as he loves you.

FIRST DAY

1. What was a helpful or a new thought from the readings or from the homily you heard on Sunday?

 

2. From what you learned, what Personal?  application did you choose to apply to your life this week?

SECOND DAY READ EZEKIEL 2:2-5 FIRST READING (“As he spoke to me, spirit entered into me and set me on my feet.”)

1. Whom did the Spirit enter, and what did the Spirit do to him? Ezekiel 1:3 and Ezekiel 2:2

 

2. How did the one who was speaking address him, where did he send him, and what did he say about the Israelites? Ezekiel 2:3

 

3. Against whom had the Israelites sinned, and what did they not do? Jeremiah 3:25
4. Against what did the whole house of Israel rebel? Ezekiel 5:6

 

5. What do those who resist authority oppose, and upon whom will they bring judgment? Romans 13:2

 

Personal – In what way do you see any signs of rebellion in yourself toward God or those in authority over you? What do you need to do to change it?

 

6. Where did the one who was speaking send the son of man, and what did he say about the people? Ezekiel 2:3-4

 

7. What was Ezekiel to say to the Israelites, and what will they know whether they heed or resist? Ezekiel 2:4-5

 

8. What gives no excuse for their sin? John 15:22

 

9. What two things is Ezekiel not to fear? Ezekiel 2:6

 

10. Why are we not to fear the rebellious when we speak God’s word to them? Deuteronomy 31:6

 

Personal – How do you respond to someone who resists your warning when you have prayed and followed God’s lead in speaking to them?

THIRD DAY READ 2 CORINTHIANS 12:7-10 SECOND READING (“My grace is sufficient for you, for power is made perfect in weakness.”)

1. What was given to Paul, what did Paul call it, and why did he say it was given to him? 2 Corinthians 12:7

 

2. What does God do to the proud? James 4:6

 

3. How many times did Paul beg God to take this thorn in the flesh from him? 2 Corinthians 12:8

 

4. What did Jesus pray three consecutive times to the Father? Matthew 26:39, 44

 

5. What did the Lord say was sufficient for Paul, and what is made perfect in weakness? 2 Corinthians 12:9

 

6. Who comes to our aid in our weakness? Romans 8:26

 

7. What does Paul boast of most gladly, in order that the power of Christ may dwell in him? 2 Corinthians 12:9

 

8. For what do we have the strength, and who gives it to us? Philippians 4:13

 

9. With what is Paul content for the sake of Christ, and when he is weak, then what is he? 2 Corinthians 12:10

 

10. What are we to bear for the Gospel, and from where do we get our strength? 2 Timothy 1:8

 

Personal – What is in your life that keeps you from becoming proud? In what way have you been thankful for it?

FOURTH DAY READ MARK 6:1-6 GOSPEL (“…He began to teach in the Synagogue, and many who heard him were astonished.”)

1. To where did Jesus return, and who was with him? Mark 6:1, Matthew 2:23

 

2. When the Sabbath came, what did Jesus do, and what was the reaction of many who heard him? Mark 6:2

 

3. How did Jesus teach? Mark 1:21-22

 

4. What were the questions the people were asking about Jesus, and what was their attitude toward him? Mark 6:2-3

 

5. By whom did Jesus say we will be taught? How will we be drawn to him, and about what were the Jews murmuring? John 6:41-45

 

6. Where did Jesus say a prophet is without honor, among whom, and where? Mark 6:4

 

7. What was Jesus not able to do in his own native place apart from curing a few sick people? Mark 6:5

 

8. How were some healed by Jesus? Mark 6:5

 

Personal How has Jesus healed you by his touch, and how have others been healed by his touch through you?

 

9. At what was Jesus amazed? Mark 6:6

 

10. Where is the righteousness of God revealed, and who is the one who will live? Romans 1:16-17

 

11. How did many come to believe in Jesus? John 4:41

Personal – How has your faith grown since you have been studying God’s Word?

FIFTH DAY READ PSALM 123:1-4 (“To you I lift up my eyes who are enthroned in heaven?”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 123:1-4.

What is the Lord saying to you personally through the Psalm?

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

SIXTH DAY READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

EZEKIEL 2:2-5

What a contrast we have in this passage. We have the immortal God address the mortal man by calling him “son of man,” emphasizing the distance between them. It is incredible that God even chooses to work his divine will on earth through imperfect beings. We are made from dust; yet God chooses to place within each one of us his life and breath.

Ezekiel was enormously blessed to have been able to experience this vision. He knew that because it came from God it did not matter whether he did not understand the full meaning of the vision. God saw in Ezekiel a hunger and thirst to know more about him. Ezekiel had an open and obedient attitude, and he was filled with the power of the Holy Spirit. God gave Ezekiel the power for the job ahead.

God does not expect us to understand everything about him, but he does expect us to be willing, obedient, and faithful servants to what we know is true and right. Today we measure success by consumer demand. Ezekiel’s measure of success did not depend on whether the people listened to him or not. The measure of success would be how well he obeyed God’s will and fulfilled God’s purpose for him.

We must always remember that God’s truth is not dependent on human response. God will not judge us on how well others respond to our faith, but on how faithful we ourselves have been. What God accomplished through us is very important, but the bottom line is what God accomplished in us. God was being very straight and direct when he called the people hard-hearted and stiff-necked. He called them that because they refused to admit their sin of rebellion. Is God today pointing at sin in your life? Do not be stubborn, confess your sin, and begin to live for God. You will be ready to stand before God tomorrow if you obey him today.

2 CORINTHIANS 12:7-10

The source of Paul’s thorn in the flesh has never been revealed. We do know that it was a very chronic and debilitating type of physical problem which at many times kept him from working. This thorn was a hindrance to his ministry, and he prayed for its removal, but God refused. Paul’s illness kept him humble and reminded him of his constant need to keep in touch with God. Those around Paul benefitted as they saw God work in his life.

Are people helped by being in your presence? Do people see God alive and active in your life?

God did not remove Paul’s physical affliction, but he demonstrated his power very clearly in Paul’s weakness. The marvelous fact is that God is power, and he will always show up in people who are weak and who call out to him. This divine power should give tremendous courage and hope for all of us who may be physically and emotionally handicapped. We need to realize our limitations and turn to God to seek his pathways for effectiveness. Paul’s great strength was that he knew that he was nothing, nor could he do anything without Christ (John 15:5). Today, more than ever, we must not be seduced by modern technology, but rely on God for our effectiveness rather than on simple energy, effort, or talent.

We must never forget that our weakness can help us develop our Christian character. In admitting our weakness, we affirm God’s strength and even deepen our sense of worship. We are tempted to do God’s work on our own when we are strong in talent, time, or health. This always leads to pride, and then the long slide down. When we are weak, and when we allow God to fill us with his power, then we become stronger than we ever could be on our own. Our strength lies in realizing that he is the source of all gifts (Philippians 4:19).

MARK 6:1-6

Jesus was teaching and healing around the country, but the people of his hometown saw him only as a carpenter. They looked at Jesus and asked, “What are his credentials? Where did he go to school? He is no better than we are; he is just a common laborer.” The towns people were insulted that others could be impressed by him and even follow him. They completely rejected his authority because he was one of their peers. These people missed his message because they thought that they knew all that was needed to know about him. Prejudice and spiritual blindness kept them from the truth.

Today there are many people who still reject his message because it is too simple, too common, and too demanding. Today we have many people who refuse the message because they have too much power, wealth, education, or fame to be committed to such a servant like Jesus.

The Jews were looking for a mighty, powerful, educated warrior-type Messiah. They were not about to listen to some itinerant preacher talk about loving your enemy, feeding the hungry, sheltering the homeless, visiting the sick and the imprisoned. They rose up in outrage and demanded to see his credentials, and then they tried to get him out of their part of the country.

Jesus has shown us in this Gospel message that if people do not give you any attention or respect for the work you do in God’s name, that does not make your work any less important. Jesus shows each one of us that we do not need to be respected or honored to be useful to God. If your friends, neighbors, or family do not respect your Christian lifestyle and ministry, do not let their rejection keep you from serving God. Today Jesus is seeking those who would respond to his miracles and message. What will be your response?

Application

The first reading tells us that obedience is the core of holiness. The second reading reveals that in our weakness is his strength. The Gospel shows us that being honored does not make what we do important.

This week show your love by being a servant for someone who is physically or emotionally weak. Let their weakness become strength in Christ through you. You can do this by visiting someone who is shut-in or imprisoned. You can read the weekly scriptures to a blind person. You can fix a meal for an elderly person in your home, family, or church. You can take someone who is lonely or depressed to a movie. You can telephone someone and pray with them. You can be God’s ambassador, and let his strength shine through you.

 

 

THE BREAD OF LIFE 

CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

          THIRTEENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – CYCLE B

  BEFORE YOU BEGIN:

 Pray and ask God to speak to you through His Holy Spirit.  “THE PARACLETE, THE HOLY SPIRIT WHOM THE FATHER WILL SEND IN MY NAME, WILL INSTRUCT YOU IN EVERYTHING, AND REMIND YOU OF ALL THAT I TOLD YOU.”  (JOHN 14:26)

 FIRST DAY  Reread last week’s readings.

 1.   What was a helpful or new thought from the readings or from the homily you heard on Sunday?

 

2.   From what you learned, what personal application did you choose to apply to your life this week?

  

SECOND DAY       READ WISDOM 1:13-15; 2:23-24    FIRST READING

         (“…the image of his own nature he made him.”)

l.   What did God not make, and in what does he not rejoice? Wisdom 1:13

  

2.   How did Jesus destroy the one who has the power of death? Hebrews 2:14

  

3.   When sin reaches maturity, to what does it give birth? James 1:15

  

4.   In what does God not delay?  What is he with us, and for what reason?    2 Peter 3:9

  

5.   Why did God fashion all things, what are the creatures of the world, and what is there not among them?   Wisdom 1:14

  

6.   What is undying?  Wisdom 1:15

  

7.   To what does the path of justice lead, and to what does the abominable way lead?   Proverbs 12:28

 

8.   What did God form man to be, and in whose image did he form him? Wisdom 2:23 and also Genesis 1:27

  

9.   How did death enter the world, and who experienced it? Wisdom 2:24

  

10.  How did sin enter the world?  What came through sin, and who has sinned?  Romans 5:12

  

11.  What do envy and anger do?    Sirach 30:24

Personal   In what way in your everyday life are you a reflec­tion of the image of God?   Give specific examples.  Whose image dominates your day?   Reflect on this.

THIRD DAY      READ 2 CORINTHIANS 8:7, 9, 13-15 SECOND READING

          (“…by his poverty you might become rich.”)

1.   What do you do in every respect, in faith, discourse, know-ledge, all earnestness, and in love?   2 Corinthians 8:7

  

2.   How were you enriched in every way, with all discourse and all  Knowledge?    1 Corinthians 1:4-5 

  

3.   What did Jesus Christ become for our sake, although he was rich, and for what reason?   2 Corinthians 8:9

  

4.   What did Jesus, though he was in the form of God, not regard himself as?    Philippians 2:6-8

  

5.   What did Jesus come to do?    Matthew 20:28

 

Personal –  In what way do you see yourself as poor?

 

6.   What is Paul’s desire for the brothers?  2 Corinthians 8:13-15

 

7.   Of what was the community of believers, and what was there not among them?   Acts 4:32-34

 

8.   What is a reason for working?    Ephesians 4:28

  

9.   What is it that is written?   2 Corinthians 8:15

  

10.  What occurred when the Israelites gathered the manna?

Exodus 16:16-18

 

 

Personal  –  How have you been sharing what you have with the needy?  Do you see the community of believers (those in your parish) being cared for equally, and if not, what can you do to change it?

 

FOURTH DAY             READ MARK 5:21-43                GOSPEL

              (“Daughter, your faith has saved you.

                  Go in peace and be cured.”)

1.   As a large crowd gathered around Jesus, who came forward? What did he do upon seeing Jesus?    Mark 5:21-23

  

2.   What did he say would happen to his daughter if Jesus laid hands on her, and when Jesus went off with him, who followed them?  Mark 5:23-24

  

3.   What happened to the woman afflicted, how did she suffer, and was she helped by the doctors?   Mark 5:25-26

 

4.   After doing what three things do you give the doctor his place?    Sirach 38:9-12

  

5.   When the woman with the hemorrhage heard about Jesus, what did she do and what did she say?   Mark 5:27-28

  

6.   What immediately happened to the woman when she touched Jesus?  What did Jesus ask when he was aware that power had gone out of him?    Mark 5:29-30

  

7.   How did the woman approach Jesus, and what did he say saved her?    Mark 5:31-32

 

Personal  –  How has your faith saved you?

 

8.   What happened while Jesus was still speaking?  Disregarding the message, what did Jesus tell the synagogue official? Mark 5:35-36

  

9.   Whom did Jesus allow to accompany him inside, how were the people acting, and what did Jesus say to them?  Mark 5:37-39

  

10.  How did the people react to Jesus; and, putting them out, whom did he take in with him?   Mark 5:40

  

11.  What did Jesus do and say to the child, and what was the girl’s Response?  About what did Jesus give strict orders, and what did he tell them to do for the girl?  Mark 5:41-43

 

Personal  How do you see touching as having a healing effect on those around you?

  

FIFTH DAY        READ PSALM 30: 2, 4-6, 11-13

            (“You changed my mourning into dancing.”)

 Read and meditate on Psalm 30:2, 4-6, 11-13.

What is the Lord saying to you personally through the Psalm?

How can you apply this to your life?

  

SIXTH DAY         READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

                     WISDOM 1:13-15, 2:23-24

This passage clearly reveals to us that death and sickness are not of God’s making.  They are, in fact, just the opposite of what God is.  Suffering, whether it be physical, emotional or spiritual, raises some very hard questions.  Why does God allow so much suffering to take place in the world?  This is a question that seems to be asked all through the ages.

God allows suffering to exist because he has given all mankind the freedom to accept or reject him and his teach­ings. He created each one of us in his image, and as we are told in Genesis, everything that God made was good. We can say this in another way: God does not make junk, but through one man, sin entered into the world, and the wages of sin are death (Rom. 6:23). Sin gave birth to death and suffering. We need only look around and we can see how much death and destruction are put upon the people of the world through pollution, toxic chemicals, drug abuse, alcoholism, abortion, and the incredible plague of war. Man has, in many cases, made God’s image a reflection of man’s image. Those who are in possession of this false destructive image induced by Satan experience all of death and destruction. This death and destruction also touches many innocent people, and it will be stopped only when people turn to the healing power of God. Nations have to stop plundering and des­troying each other.

We are being called to the only real peace, and that is the peace of Christ. Jesus Christ died so that all men might have eternal life (John 3:16).  His death won for us freedom from Satan (death) even while we were still sinners (Rom. 5:8). Our God is a loving and just God. All who suffer and repent are forgiven and all who suffer and are innocent, he glorifies in heaven, and they are with him forever.

                   2 CORINTHIANS 8:7, 9, 13-15

Today’s reading is a classic example of an old saying that goes like this: “It is not enough to talk the talk, you must also walk the walk.” We give others a clear message of what we really believe by the way we live our lives.  Today’s reading is not just an appeal to be a giver, it is a call to be a joyful giver. Giving is the natural response of love, and Paul was not ordering the Christians to give. He told them that actions speak much louder than words.

When you love someone, you want to provide for his needs. If we refuse to help, our love may not be as genuine as we say. Jesus gave up his rights as God to become man. Incarnation means God voluntarily became man. Jesus gave up his life for all, and he let himself take on the form of a mere slave. He was obedient even up to his death on the cross.

The Corinthian church had money and Paul challenged them to give of their time, talent, and money for the needy and the poor. Paul shares with us several principles of giving. Your willingness to give is more important than the amount you give. He states that if you give to others in need then you too will be helped in your need. You are called to give as your response to Christ, not for what you may get out of it.  Giving or tithing expresses a fundamental trust in God’s provision for our lives (Phil 4:19).

Jesus chose to give us eternal life, and his giving continues as he gives us grace and power. Jesus tells us in scripture that whatever we do to the least of his brethren, we do unto him (Matt. 25:31-45).   Christians are called to share alms with the poor and those in need  (Luke 11:41).

                           MARK 5:21-43

In today’s Gospel there are all the elements of tragedy and hope. The passage begins with Jesus being confronted by a ruler of the local synagogue named Jarius. Many synagogue rulers had close ties with the Pharisees.  It was very likely that calling on Jesus’ help was not supported very much by Jarius’ peers. To bow before Jesus in front of all those Jewish people was a daring act of respect and worship on Jarius’ part. When his daughter fell ill, something happened to him, and he thought of Jesus. His prejudices were forgotten.  He must have regarded Jesus as an outsider, as one to whom the synagogue doors were closed. His dignity was forgotten. He, the ruler of the synagogue, came and threw himself at the feet of Jesus. His pride was forgotten. This was a man who forgot everything except that he wanted the help of Jesus.

We see a woman with an incurable condition desperately reach out and touching Jesus. Her disorder caused her to bleed constantly which would have made her ritually unclean (Lev. 15:25-27). She knew her bleeding would cause Jesus to be unclean, according to Jewish law, if she touched him. Still she reached out by faith and was healed.

Many times we feel our problems keep us from being close to God, but he is always present and ready to help us. We should never let our fear keep us from reaching out to him. Jesus said her faith caused the cure. Jarius’ faith caused him to seek out Jesus for his daughter. His faith caused his daughter’s cure. Genuine faith involves action. Faith that is not put into action is no faith at all.

Application

The first reading tells us that God does not make junk.  The second reading shows us that our actions speak louder than words.  The Gospel reveals God’s presence in all situa­tions.

This week, by your actions, show what it is that you really believe.  Look for specific ways to be humble to your family, like the ruler in the synagogue.  Make a decision to put your family members’ interests before your own. Share the Good News of the Gospel with each member of your family. Love one another as he loves you.

 

The Nativity of Saint John the Baptist

CYCLE B

BEFORE YOU BEGIN: Pray and ask God to speak to you through His Holy Spirit.

“THE PARACLETE, THE HOLY SPIRIT WHOM THE FATHER WILL SEND IN MY NAME, WILL INSTRUCT YOU IN EVERYTHING, AND REMIND YOU OF ALL THAT I TOLD YOU.” (JOHN 14:26)

Application

The first reading reveals that putting our hope in man rather than in God is a false hope.  The second reading shows us that belief is an action that calls for a response. We live the way we really believe.  The Gospel tells us that hypocrisy is defeated by truth.

This week, make a list of what areas in your life are a hypocrisy, and then confess that one area to a Christian brother or sister, so that he or she may pray that you will be healed (James 5:16). Pick out someone from your family, job, or school and be specific.  Remember, the prayer of a righteous man availeth much (James 5:16). The truth of Christ will really set you free from hypocrisy (John 8:32). In one week you will experience a tremendous healing.  Write to us and share how God has answered your prayer.

FIRST DAY

1. What was a helpful or a new thought from the readings or from the homily you heard on Sunday?
2. From what you learned, what Personal?  application did you choose to apply to your life this week?

SECOND DAY  READ ISAIAH 49:1-6     FIRST READING (“I will make you a light to the Nations.”)

1. When did the Lord call his servant and from where did he give him his name?  Isaiah 49:1
2. When did the Lord know and dedicate the prophet Jeremiah and to what did he appoint him? Jeremiah 1:5
3. What did the Lord make of his servant and where did he conceal him? Isaiah 49:2
4. What is the sword of the Spirit? Ephesians 6:17
5. Who did the Lord say is his servant and what does he show through him? Isaiah 49:3
6. Where is the servants reward and what has he done? Isaiah 49:4
7. How did the Lord form me and for what reason has he done this? Isaiah 49:5
8. What is his servant made in the eyes of the Lord and who has been his strength? Isaiah 49:5
9. What is to small a thing for his servant to do? Isaiah 49:6
10. What will God make his servant and for what reason does he do this? Isaiah 49:6

Personal – In what way have you been a servant to the Lord and a light to those in your family, with your friends, at school or in the workplace?

THIRD DAY  READ ACTS 13:22-26  SECOND READING (“….to us the word of salvation has been sent.”)

1. Who is speaking and to whom is he speaking? Acts 13:16
2. Who did the Lord raise up as king? Acts 13:21-22
3. What did Samuel say will happen to you if you do not obey the Lord? 1 Samuel 12:15
4. Why did the Lord take the kingdom from Saul and give it to David? 1 Samuel 28:17-18
5. Who did God promise would come from David’s descendents? Acts 13:23
6. Who heralded his coming and what did he proclaim? Acts 13:24
7. Why must we repent? Matthew 3:2
8. As John was completing his course what did he say? Acts 13:25
9. What has been sent to the children of Abraham, and those others among them who are God-fearing? Acts 13:26
10. What was in the beginning, what did it become, and who is the word? John 1:1, 14

Personal – How are you heralding the coming of the Lord? What has been the result?

FOURTH DAY  READ LUKE 1:57-66, 80  GOSPEL READING (“John is his name?”)

1. Who is the wife of Zechariah and who was she filled with when she heard Mary’s greeting?  Luke 1:41
2. When the time arrived, Elizabeth gave birth to whom? Luke 1:57
3. What did the Lord show Elizabeth and what did the neighbors and relatives do with her? Luke 1:58
4. What did they come to do on the eighth day and what were they going to call the child? Luke 1:59
5. What did Elizabeth say the name of the child would be? Luke 1:60
6. What did those present say to Elizabeth and who did they turn to making signs? Luke 1:62
7. Why was Zechariah speechless? Luke 1:19-20
8. When Zechariah wrote John’s name on the tablet what happened to him and who did he bless?  Luke 1:64
9. What came upon their neighbors as they discussed all these things and what did they do and say?  Luke 1:65-66
10. In what did the child become strong, and where was he until the day of his manifestation to Israel?   Luke 1:80

Personal – In what specific way has the word of the Lord come to you and how have you carried it out or how have you failed to carry it out?  Reflect on listening and obeying the Lord and the way God moves through our obedience or disobedience.

FIFTH DAY  READ PSALM 139:1-3, 13-15 (“….my days were shaped, before one came to be.”)

Read and meditate on Psalm 139:1-3, 13-15

What is the Lord saying to you personally through the Psalm?

How can you apply this to your daily spiritual life?

SIXTH DAY READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

ISAIAH 49:1-6

This chapter of Isaiah is called the book of consolation because Isaiah tells in powerful terms not only of the restoration of Judah but also of the coming servant to be the Messiah King. The restoration is firm because they must return to their own land to prepare the way for the coming Messiah also known as the suffering servant who is to redeem his people.   This passage is about being chosen to be a light in the darkness.

This prophesy is about a suffering servant who was called from the womb of his mother. His name was chosen while he was still in his mother’s womb. Isaiah tells us that God will make his words of judgment very sharp. God has hidden his servant in the shadow of His hand. He is like a sharp arrow in God’s quiver. He knew his servant before he was even born. He is commissioned by the Lord to go forth and be a light of salvation to the whole world. Before his servant was born God dedicated him to serve as a prophet to the nations.

Today we see that light drawing all those in darkness to it. It is the light of salvation and we have been called, just like Isaiah, to go forth and make disciples of all nations by taking up the sword of the Spirit, the Word of God and proclaiming His salvation. Like His servant when God asks us, who shall I send, we too will say “send me”. Let those around you see that light of Christ within you draw them out of their darkness and come out into the light of salvation.

ACTS 13:22-26

The heart of this passage is John the Baptist who heralded Jesus’ coming by proclaiming a baptism of repentance. John’s message was “Repent the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” John would say to the people what do you say that T am? I am not he. Behold one is coming after me and I am not worthy to unfasten the sandals of his feet.. Our scripture opens with King David being raised up to replace King Saul, who was the first king of Israel. God called David a man after my own heart. From the line of King David’s descendants came the savior of the world, Jesus Christ.

John went about challenging all to repent or perish. He lived in the wilderness and his diet was locusts and honey. Today he would be considered crude and offensive and would most likely be arrested and sent to prison. Today there is a lack of outrage for the many immoral acts that are committed in our schools, communities. We see in many situations that evil does succeed, simply because good men do nothing. We might ask where the John the Baptists are in today’s societies. John knew who the Truth was and he defended Him with his heart and his life. John was beheaded upon the request of Salome the dancing daughter of Herodias, the illegitimate wife of the King.

LUKE 1:57-66, 80

Scripture says when it was time for Elizabeth to have her baby, she gave birth to a baby boy (Luke 1:57) Scripture doesn’t tell us the ages of Zechariah and Elizabeth but we can well imagine that they were in their sixties or seventies when they had their child. Can you imagine some one giving up all hope for a child, and still becoming pregnant for the first time? Every one expected the child to be named after his father, but the angel told Zacharias that he was to name the boy John. Relatives and friends objected because the name John was not in the family tree. They thought the baby should be named after his father and to carry on the family name.

God claimed John and it was normally the father’s privilege to choose a child’s name. The act of naming someone can also show a cherished parent-child relationship. God was claiming a special calling that he had in mind. He knew that John would be the forerunner of the Messiah. Names chosen by God have a special meaning; John means The Lord is merciful. This blessing has been passed on to all of us because Mercy is for those that do not deserve it.

Application

The first reading reveals the servant of the Lord is made to be a light to the nations. The second reading calls us to prepare the way of the Lord by proclaiming a baptism of repentance. The gospel calls us to be obedient to the Word of the Lord.

Let us examine our conscience and see if there are any area’s of disobedience. Share this with someone you trust.

 

THE BREAD OF LIFE

                     CATHOLIC BIBLE STUDY

           ELEVENTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME – CYCLE B

  

BEFORE YOU BEGIN:

 Pray and ask God to speak to you through His Holy Spirit.  “THE PARACLETE, THE HOLY SPIRIT WHOM THE FATHER WILL SEND IN MY NAME, WILL INSTRUCT YOU IN EVERYTHING, AND REMIND YOU OF ALL THAT I TOLD YOU.”  (JOHN 14:26)

 

Application

 

The first reading reveals the sacredness of Mt. Sinai to the Israelites. The second reading tells us that we are the tabernacles of God. The Gospel tells us that Eucharist means unity and thanksgiving.

 

This week, share your faith with someone. Tell them what Jesus’ death means to you, and what it means to eat at the Lord’s table. You may be sharing this revelation with someone who is very hungry for spiritual food. It might be someone in your family, school or work.  Jesus calls each one of us to feed his lambs.  Go forth and share your faith, and feed his lambs.        

 

FIRST DAY  Reread last week’s readings.

 

1.   What was a helpful or new thought from the readings or    from the homily you heard on Sunday?

 

2.   From what you learned, what personal application did      you choose to apply to your life this week?

 

 

 

SECOND DAY           READ EZEKIEL 17:22-24        FIRST READING

 

         (“As I, the Lord, have spoken, so will I do.”

 

l.   Who is speaking, and what will he plant on a high and     lofty mountain?   Ezekiel 17:22

 

 

2.   What shall the survivors of the house of Judah do?

2 Kings 19:30

 

 

3.   What did Isaiah and Jeremiah prophesy in days to come?

Isaiah 2:2 and Jeremiah 23:5-6

 

 

4.   Where will God plant a majestic cedar, what will it put forth and bear, and what shall dwell beneath it? 

Ezekiel 17:23

 

 

5.   What will happen to Israel in days to come, and with      what will they cover the world?    Isaiah 27:6

 

 

6.   Who shall flourish like a palm tree and grow like a cedar of Lebanon?   Psalm 92:13

 

 

7.   What will all the trees of the field know?  Ezekiel 17:24

 

 

8.   What two things will be brought low, and who will be

exalted?    Isaiah 2:12-17

 

 

9.   What are we to hate?    Proverbs 8:13

 

 

10.  What comes with pride, and what comes with the humble?

Proverbs 11:2

 

 

Personal – How has the Lord brought you low, and how has he lifted you up?   In what way has he made you bloom?

 

 

THIRD DAY          READ 2 CORINTHIANS 5:6-10     SECOND READING

 

              (“We walk by faith, not by sight.”)

 

1.   Who is writing this letter, and to whom is he   speaking? 2 Corinthians 1:1

 

 

2.   What are we to be always, and when are we away from the Lord?   2 Corinthians 5:6

 

 

3.   By what do we walk?   2 Corinthians 5:7

 

 

4.   What is faith?    Hebrews 11:1

 

 

Personal – What are you convinced of concerning Jesus Christ even though you have not seen?

 

 

5.   Why would we rather leave the body?2 Cor. 5:1 and 5:8.

See also Romans 8:23

 

 

6.   What are life and death?    Philippians 1:21

 

 

7.   What do we aspire to do whether we are at home or    away? 2 Corinthians 5:9

 

 

 

8.   How are we to serve Christ and in this way be pleasing    to God and approved by others?   Romans 14:17-18

 

 

9.   Where must we all appear, and for what reason?  

2 Corinthians 5:10

 

 

10.  What must you not do, and for what reason?   Romans 14:10

 

 

Personal – For what reasons are you looking forward to appearing before the judgment seat of God?

 

 

FOURTH DAY             READ MARK 4:26-34                GOSPEL

 

        (“This is how it is with the kingdom of God.”)

 

1.   What would a man scatter on the ground?  Mark 4:26

 

 

2.   What would a man not know as he would sleep and rise?

Mark 4:27

 

 

3.   Of its own accord, what does the land yield, and what     does man do when the grain is ripe?   Mark 4:28-29

 

 

4.   What happens to those who die in the Lord, and who   harvested the earth?   Revelation 14:13-16

 

 

5.   What happens at the resurrection of the dead, what is     sown, and what is raised?    1 Corinthians 15:42-44

 

 

6.   What did Jesus say about the kingdom of God, and what     is the mustard seed when it is sown in the ground?     Mark 4:30-31

 

 

7.   What is the tongue considered?   James 3:5-6

 

 

8.   What happens when the mustard seed springs up?  What      does it put forth, and who dwells in its shade?   Mark 4:32

 

 

9.   How does our faith grow?    Romans 10:17

 

 

Personal – How has your faith grown, and what have you found to hinder your growth in faith?

 

 

10.  How did Jesus speak the parables?   Mark 4:33

 

 

11.  What did Jesus do in private with his disciples?

Mark 4:34

 

 

Personal – In your private prayer time with the Lord, how does Jesus speak to you through his Holy Spirit dwelling within you?

 

 

FIFTH DAY          READ PSALM 92:2-3, 13-16

 

 

      (“The just man shall flourish like the palm tree.”)

 

Read and meditate on Psalm 92:2-3, 13-16.

 

What is the Lord saying to you personally through the Psalm?

 

How can you apply this to your life?

 

 

SIXTH DAY         READ ALL OF THE COMMENTARY

 

                       EZEKIEL 17:22-24

 

This reading is a message of hope for the people of today, as it was in the time of Ezekiel.  It shows us what happened to a nation that put its hope in a foreign alliance.  The people relied on their ability to make treaties with neighbors instead of relying on the power of God. Only God could offer them a sign of real and trusting hope. God said he would plant a tender twig, called the Messiah, whose kingdom would grow and become a shelter for all who come to him (Isaiah 11:1).

 

We have seen this prophecy fulfilled in the coming of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. We experience false hope when we depend on foreign alliances, like pride, power, wealth and status. The Lord was the one who took a small twig and made it into a mighty fruit-bearing tree. Our gifts and talents come not from ourselves, but from God. We need only look around in our communities to see mighty trees that have fallen, and much damage has resulted in their crashing fall. 

 

The Lord will bring the proud and haughty crashing to the ground, and he also will exalt the lowly and the meek. There is a tendency in our societies to identify meekness with weakness. The proud depend on themselves and others like themselves and end up in disgrace and complete humiliation. The meek never forget that they are a twig made by God and their growth into a giant, fruit-bearing tree is the result of God’s tremendous gift of grace. The meek, because of their humility and obedience to the Lord, become the strongest in the kingdom of God.  Scripture tells us that the proud end in failure, but the meek become wise (Proverbs 11:2).

 

                     2 CORINTHIANS 5:6-10

 

Death is so frightening for many people because it is mysterious, unknown and final.  Yet we see in today’s reading that Paul was not afraid to die because he was confident of spending eternity with Christ.  This does not deny that facing the unknown and leaving loved ones do not bring some form of anxiety.  Leaving those whom we love hurts deeply, but if we believe in Jesus Christ, we can share Paul’s hope and confidence of eternal life with Christ.

 

Scripture tells us that if we believe in Christ, we shall not perish but have eternal life (John 3:16).  For those who believe in Jesus Christ, death is not the last word.  Death is only a prelude to eternal life with God. When Christians leave the land of the dying, they enter into the land of the living. In fact, the only person who was ever born to die was Jesus Christ. His death won for us a victory over death.  Because of him, you and I can face tomorrow without fear.  Upon our physical death, our lives will continue in spirit and at the end of time in a new glorified body forever in the presence of our loving God.  It is this confident hope that inspires us to faithful service.

 

It is true that eternal life is a free gift, given through God’s grace (Ephesians 2:8,9). It is also true that our lives will still be judged by Christ. The gift of faith does not free us from obedience.  We must never use God’s gift as an excuse for laziness, because all Christians must give an account for how they had lived (Matthew 16:27). We must never forget that faith is the response to the living presence and power of God in our lives.  We can, like Paul, look forward to that “Day of the Lord” without any fear, because fear has to do with punishment (1 John 4:18). And we have a God of love, who died for us while we were yet sinners (Romans 5:8) simply because he loved us so much.

 

                         MARK 4:26-34

 

Today’s Gospel reveals that spiritual growth is a continual, gradual process that reaches its fullness in spiritual maturity. Spiritual growth is very much like the slow, steady growth of a plant.  It is harvested when it reaches its time of fullness. Jesus’ example of the tiny mustard seed really identifies with the church. Our Catholic Church started out very small. It was not very long before it had grown into a worldwide Christian com­munity of believers.

 

The tiny mustard seed is also like you and me, in that when we feel alone in our stand for Christ, we realize that God is building a worldwide kingdom through us. God has many faithful followers in every part of the world, and our faith, no matter how small, can join with others to accomplish great things.  Today our faith continues to grow through hearing his Word, and we need to proclaim his Word to all we meet, whether in our homes, work places or schools (Matt. 28:19).

 

Jesus spoke in parables to challenge the sincere seekers to discover the true meaning of his words.  He spoke out against hypocrisy and impure motives which were characteristic of the various members of the crowd listening to Jesus. We need to realize that only as we put God’s teachings into practice will we understand and see more of the truth. The truth is clear, but our ability to understand it is imperfect.  As we obey, we will sharpen our vision and increase our understanding (James 1:22-25).  Today, as in the days of this Gospel, those who truly listen to Jesus and obey his holy Word know what he is talking about.

 

 

Application

 

The first reading reveals that putting our hope in man rather than in God is a false hope.  The second reading shows us that belief is an action that calls for a response. We live the way we really believe.  The Gospel tells us that hypocrisy is defeated by truth.

 

This week, make a list of what areas in your life are a hypocrisy, and then confess that one area to a Christian brother or sister, so that he or she may pray that you will be healed (James 5:16). Pick out someone from your family, job, or school and be specific.  Remember, the prayer of a righteous man avail­eth much (James 5:16). The truth of Christ will really set you free from hypocrisy (John 8:32). In one week you will experience a tremen­dous healing.  Write to us and share how God has answered your prayer.