Opening Game
Begin with a game of Simon Says – The Balloon Edition. In this version, you’ll play Simon Says with a balloon on your back.
For complete instructions and tips, visit: Simon Says – The Balloon Edition.
After the game, ask a few questions:
- Did you find any of the instructions difficult to follow?
- How good are you at following instructions?
Scripture Reading
It can be hard to follow directions, even when we want to. Sometimes, we don’t want to follow instructions, especially if we don’t recognize the authority of the person giving them.
Let’s read the gospel of the day:
John 6:41-51 (The people question the authority of Jesus) – the Gospel Reading for the 19th Sunday in Ordinary Time – Year B
I am the bread of life. Your ancestors ate the manna in the desert, but they died; this is the bread that comes down from heaven so that one may eat it and not die. I am the living bread that came down from heaven; whoever eats this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give is my flesh for the life of the world.”
The Jews murmured about Jesus because he said, “I am the bread that came down from heaven, ” and they said, “Is this not Jesus, the son of Joseph? Do we not know his father and mother? Then how can he say, ‘I have come down from heaven’?”
Jesus answered and said to them, “Stop murmuring among yourselves. No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draw him, and I will raise him on the last day.
It is written in the prophets: They shall all be taught by God. Everyone who listens to my Father and learns from him comes to me. Not that anyone has seen the Father except the one who is from God; he has seen the Father.
Amen, amen, I say to you, whoever believes has eternal life.
Discussion
All through the Old Testament, God gave the Israelites commandments to guide them. These rules were meant to bring them closer to God and establish Israel as His chosen people. The Israelites were familiar with the idea of being taught by God. When Jesus spoke, He often referred to this concept, like in the passage from Isaiah 54:13:
All your children shall be taught by the Lord; great shall be the peace of your children.
This was a reminder that God’s guidance brings peace and direction.
However, history shows that God’s people didn’t always listen. The Israelites often ignored God’s commandments, choosing their own way instead. When Jesus began His ministry, many questioned His authority. They were skeptical because they thought they knew Him—He was just the son of Joseph and Mary, after all.
So, when He claimed to be the Bread of Life and said that people needed to eat His flesh and drink His blood, many found it hard to accept. They couldn’t believe that this familiar figure was the Messiah.
Have you ever struggled to accept someone’s authority? Maybe it was a teacher, a parent, or even a friend. It can be tough, especially if you think you know better or if the person is asking something difficult. This was the case with the people who heard Jesus. They couldn’t accept His words and walked away.
Now, let’s think about the Eucharist. As Catholics, we believe that when Jesus said, “This is My Body,” He meant it.
St. Cyril of Jerusalem said it well:
Since Christ Himself has said, ‘This is My Body,’ who shall dare to doubt that It is His Body?
When we receive the Eucharist, we are accepting Jesus’ authority. We trust His words and believe that we are truly receiving His body and blood. This isn’t just a ritual; it’s an act of faith and trust in Jesus.
Receiving the Eucharist is not only an act of faith but also an act of submitting to the authority of Jesus. By coming to the altar, we acknowledge that we believe in His teachings and accept Him as our Lord. It’s a powerful moment of connection with God. Have you ever thought about how your belief in the authority of Jesus affects the way you receive the Eucharist?
When we truly believe in Jesus’ authority, it changes our approach to the Eucharist. We come with reverence and a deeper understanding of what we are receiving. It’s not just a symbol; it’s a real encounter with Jesus. This belief can deepen our faith and bring us closer to Him.
So, next time you participate in the Eucharist, think about what it means to trust in Jesus’ authority. Reflect on how this trust influences your life and your relationship with God. It’s a journey of faith, and every time you receive the Eucharist, you’re saying “yes” to following Jesus and believing in His words.
Small Group Reflection Questions
After the main discussion, break into small groups to dive deeper into the topics covered. This is a great opportunity for everyone to share their thoughts and learn from each other.
- Understanding Authority: Why do you think it’s important to recognize and trust the authority of Jesus? Have you ever struggled with understanding or accepting Jesus’ teachings? How did you handle it?
- The Role of the Eucharist: What does receiving the Eucharist mean to you personally? How does believing in the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist influence your faith?
- Applying Jesus’ Teachings: Can you think of a time when following Jesus’ teachings helped you in a difficult situation? How can we better listen to and follow Jesus’ guidance in our daily lives?
Encourage everyone to share their experiences and thoughts. Remind the group that this is a safe space for open and honest discussion. Each person’s perspective is valuable and can help deepen the understanding of the topic.
Challenge
This week, when you receive the Eucharist, take some time to pray and reflect. Think about how you can better accept the authority of Jesus in your life. Ask God to reveal areas where you rely on your own understanding instead of His wisdom. It might be a decision you’re facing, a habit you want to change, or a relationship that needs healing. Be honest with yourself and with God.
After your reflection, choose one specific area to focus on. Make a commitment to trust in Jesus’ teachings and guidance more than your own judgment. Pray for the strength to follow through and, if appropriate, take concrete steps to act on that commitment. This could mean making a different choice, seeking forgiveness, or spending more time in prayer. Trust that God’s ways are always for your good and that His guidance will lead you in the right direction.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, we thank You for the gift of Your Son, Jesus, and for the guidance He offers us through His teachings. Help us to trust in His authority and follow His ways with open hearts. As we go forth from this lesson, fill us with the strength to live according to Your will and to trust in Your wisdom. May the Holy Spirit guide us in all we do, and may we always seek to grow closer to You. Amen.
More Resources
More Youth Ministry Lesson Plans and Reflections
For more information and resources, see https://young-catholics.com/10223/taught-by-god-authority-of-jesus/