Sunday, September 17, 2023
The readings for the 24th Sunday in Ordinary Time for Year A focus on mercy and forgiveness. In the first reading (Sirach 27:30—28:7) we are told we must forgive each other for “wrath and anger are hateful things”. The psalm (Psalm 103:1-2, 3-4, 9-10, 11-12) reminds us that God shows us mercy. The second reading (Romans 14:7-9) tells us to live for Christ instead of ourselves. And in the gospel (Matthew 18:21-35) Jesus tells parables about mercy and tells Peter that we must forgive “seventy times seven” times.
Possible themes for this weekend’s readings are spiritual works of mercy and forgiving others. Here are some ideas:
Wrath and anger are hateful things, yet the sinner hugs them tight. Forgive your neighbor’s injustice; then when you pray, your own sins will be forgiven.
Our Father who art in heaven, hallowed be thy name, thy Kingdom come, thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. - Matthew 6:9-13
Jesus commanded us to love. The Catholic Church teaches that respecting life is more than just not hurting other people. We must actively work for peace and justice, even for those we are in conflict with.
The Parable of the Unforgiving Servant might be difficult for youth to understand. While slavery and servitude was common in the time of Jesus, the imagery will be unfamiliar to the youth of today. This retelling prepares youth to understand the message of this gospel. Reflection questions are also provided.
The Spiritual Works of Mercy are a way for us to accompany and encourage each other on our faith journey. The Spiritual Works of Mercy are acts of charity through which we show our love for each other by .
Most Catholic youth are familiar with the rosary, but the Chaplet of Divine Mercy is less well known. The Divine Mercy Chaplet is a devotion which reminds us that God is merciful and that we too must show mercy.
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