Sunday, October 17, 2021
The readings for the Twenty-Ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time for Year B speak of the cost of discipleship. The first reading (Isaiah 53:10-11) foretells of Jesus’ sacrifice for us. The psalm (Psalm 33:4-5, 18-19, 20, 22) sings “Lord, let your mercy be on us, as we place our trust in you.” The second reading (Hebrews 4:14-16) reminds us that Jesus understands our weaknesses. And in the gospel (Mark 10:35-45), Jesus warns his disciples that it will be difficult to follow him and they must develop servants’ hearts.
Humility, sacrifice, and mercy are topics for these readings. Here are some ideas:
Conversion is an ongoing, lifelong, daily experience. This video provides wonderful background material for a youth ministry discussion about discipleship, the epistles of St. Paul, or conversion.
GLOW dodge ball puts a fun twist on your traditional dodge ball game. It is a glow in the dark version of traditional dodgeball. Play it at night or if you can darken your gym you can play in any time. This is a great game for an open gym night with your teens.
Whoever wishes to be great among you will be your servant; whoever wishes to be first among you will be the slave of all. For the Son of Man did not come to be served but to serve and to give his life as a ransom for many.
St. Anselm of Canterbury was a Benedictine monk and theologian. His feast day is April 21. Anslem's Prayer is a good prayer to say before reading scripture. It would also work well will a discussion of discernment or discipleship.
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