Opening Game
Start by playing the Extreme War Card Game. This is a tournament-style variation of War, which is shorter than the traditional game. For detailed instructions, see the Extreme War Card Game.
After playing, ask these questions:
- Did you enjoy competing against each other?
- Did you use your best card right away or save it for later?
Winning a game often involves strategy, like deciding when to use your best card. In spiritual battles, however, we don’t need to hold back. God has given us an abundance of resources to fight against evil in our daily lives.
Scripture Reading
Read the Gospel:
Mark 13:24-32 (Jesus talks about the tribulation) – the Gospel Reading for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time – Year B
Jesus said to his disciples: “In those days after that tribulation the sun will be darkened, and the moon will not give its light, and the stars will be falling from the sky, and the powers in the heavens will be shaken.
“And then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in the clouds’ with great power and glory, and then he will send out the angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the end of the earth to the end of the sky.
“Learn a lesson from the fig tree. When its branch becomes tender and sprouts leaves, you know that summer is near.
In the same way, when you see these things happening, know that he is near, at the gates. Amen, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.
“But of that day or hour, no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.”Mark 13:24-32
Discussion
Jesus talks about some pretty scary stuff, like suffering and tough times. It can seem overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that this isn’t just about the end of the world. We all face hard moments in our lives. None of us escapes suffering, but we’re not alone in these struggles. Jesus is with us, and He gives us tools to help us through the dark times.
One of the most important tools is the Armor of God. This spiritual armor helps us resist temptation and stay strong in our faith. It’s like wearing protective gear in a tough game. The Armor of God includes things like truth, righteousness, and faith. These are qualities that help us live according to God’s teachings and resist evil.
Let’s look at the sacraments, which are a big part of the Armor of God. First, there’s baptism. Baptism is where it all starts. It gives us the grace and protection we need to grow in our faith. It also means we can receive other sacraments, like the Eucharist and Reconciliation, where God continues to pour out His love and grace on us.
We also receive the Light of Christ at our baptism. This is symbolized by lighting a baptismal candle from the Easter candle. This light is meant to shine in our hearts, helping us see the right path. We keep this light burning by praying, reading the Bible, and going to Mass. These actions help us stay close to Jesus and live out our faith.
Every Easter, we get the chance to renew our baptismal promises. This is a way of reminding ourselves of our commitment to God. It’s like hitting the reset button and focusing again on what really matters.
Reconciliation is another important sacrament. When we mess up and sin, we can go to confession and receive forgiveness. This not only cleanses us from sin but also gives us the strength to do better next time. It’s like a spiritual refresh that helps keep the Light of Christ burning bright in us.
The Eucharist is a huge part of our spiritual armor. During Mass, we participate in Jesus’ prayer to the Father, and the Holy Spirit helps us connect with this mystery. Receiving Communion makes us living tabernacles of Jesus. This is a powerful protection against evil because Satan can’t stand being near our Lord. That’s why it’s so important to go to Mass regularly.
Besides the sacraments, God also gives us angels to protect us. St. Michael the Archangel is known as a warrior who fights against Satan. We also have our guardian angels, who are always with us. Whenever we feel tempted or weak, we can call on them for help. They’re like our spiritual bodyguards, always ready to assist us.
So, when you’re faced with tough choices or feel overwhelmed, remember that God has given you strong armor.
St. Paul tells us
Put on the armor of God so that you may be able to stand firm against the tactics of the devil.
Ephesians 6:11
It’s solid advice that helps us stay strong in our faith and resist the tactics of the devil.
It’s also important to remember that the Armor of God isn’t just about protection; it’s about being proactive in our faith. We are called to live out the qualities of this armor in our daily lives.
For example, the “belt of truth” means being honest and living with integrity. The “breastplate of righteousness” calls us to make choices that reflect God’s justice and love. Each piece of the armor isn’t just for defense—it’s a way of living that brings us closer to God and helps us share His love with others.
You face many challenges and temptations, whether it’s peer pressure, doubts about your faith, or struggles in school and relationships. The Armor of God equips you to handle these situations with grace and strength. By embracing these spiritual tools, you can navigate the challenges of life with confidence, knowing that God is with you. It’s like having a solid game plan that guides you through tough times and helps you make good decisions.
Finally, never underestimate the power of prayer. It’s the thread that ties the Armor of God together. Prayer keeps us connected to God, helps us seek His guidance, and strengthens our resolve. Whether it’s a quick prayer in a moment of need or a deeper time of reflection, prayer is a powerful weapon in our spiritual arsenal. It’s how we communicate with God, express our needs, and thank Him for His blessings.
So, as you go through life, remember that you are never alone. The Armor of God is always available to you, giving you the strength and protection you need. Use it daily by living out the qualities of truth, righteousness, peace, faith, salvation, and the Word of God. Keep your prayer life strong, and rely on the sacraments and the support of your faith community. With this armor, you can face any challenge with confidence, knowing that God is always by your side.
Small Group Reflection Questions
After exploring the concept of the Armor of God and engaging in activities like the Extreme War Card Game, it’s valuable to have a small group discussion. This time allows participants to reflect on what they’ve learned, share their thoughts, and deepen their understanding. Below are some questions to guide your discussion. Encourage everyone to participate and share their perspectives.
- Understanding the Armor of God:
- What is one piece of the Armor of God that stood out to you? Why?
- How can you apply the “shield of faith” in your daily life?
- What does the “sword of the Spirit” represent, and how can it help you in challenging situations?
- Personal Reflection:
- Can you think of a time when you felt like you were in a spiritual battle? How did you handle it?
- Which aspect of the Armor of God do you find most challenging to live out? Why?
- How can prayer strengthen your “armor”?
- Practical Application:
- What are some practical ways you can “put on” the Armor of God each day?
- How can we support each other in using the Armor of God in our lives?
- Why is it important to remember that God provides us with these spiritual tools in abundance?
- Connecting to Faith:
- How does understanding the Armor of God change the way you view challenges in your life?
- What role do the sacraments play in helping us wear the Armor of God?
- How can we better incorporate the teachings of the Armor of God into our everyday actions?
Encourage open and respectful dialogue, allowing each person to express their thoughts and feelings. This discussion is a great opportunity to grow together in faith and to find practical ways to apply the Armor of God in everyday life.
Challenge
This week, if you ever feel like you’re being pulled away from Jesus or tempted to do something wrong, take a moment to pause. In that moment, say a simple prayer: “Jesus my Savior, be my light. St. Michael, fight for me. My guardian angel, protect me.” This prayer is a way to call on the strength and protection of Jesus and the angels. It’s a reminder that you’re not alone in facing these challenges.
After saying the prayer, take action to join in the battle against temptation. This might mean walking away from a negative situation, choosing to do something positive, or simply taking a deep breath and refocusing on what you know is right.
Remember that resisting temptation isn’t just about avoiding something wrong—it’s also about choosing to do what is good and true. By relying on Jesus, St. Michael, and your guardian angel, you are using the Armor of God to stay strong and faithful. Keep this challenge in mind throughout the week, and notice how it helps you stay connected to your faith.
Prayer
If time permits, spend some time praying to Jesus before the tabernacle.
Close by praying the St. Michael the Archangel Prayer. (Get a printable copy here.)
St. Michael the Archangel,
defend us in battle.
Be our defense against the wickedness and snares of the Devil.
May God rebuke him, we humbly pray,
and do thou, O Prince of the heavenly hosts,
by the power of God,
thrust into hell Satan, and all the evil spirits,
who prowl about the world seeking the ruin of souls.
Amen.
More Resources
More Youth Ministry Lesson Plans and Reflections
For more information, see https://young-catholics.com/12486/armor-of-god-spiritual-warfare/.