Thursday, March 21, 2013

Daily Readings:
Gn 17:3-9; PS 105:4-5, 6-7, 8-9; Jn 8:51-59

Reflection:  Today we are reminded of two things.  First, the covenants made by God and second, our role in keeping the covenant.  God offers love and defense to Abraham and his descendants forever, in turn, they must keep God’s covenant forever.  Through Jesus’ death and resurrection we are offered eternal life.  While Christ gave His life freely for our sins, we must continue to know and love His word and live out His example in order to experience the joy of heaven with Him.  How do we keep His word if we do not know His word?  How can others keep His word if we do not share His word with them?

Reflection for younger saints:  Through Jesus, God promises us everlasting life in heaven.  God asks us to know Him and to keep His commandments so we can go to heaven after we die.

Big Picture:  The Lord remembers His covenant forever.

Discussion Starters:
     Younger saints:  Who did God make the old covenant with?  (Abraham and all his descendants).  Who came to establish the new covenant?  (Jesus).  What do we have to do to keep the new covenant?  (Know and love God’s word and follow His commandments).
     Older saints:  Reflect on what it means that God promised “to be your God” to Abraham and his descendants forever.  What does it mean to you that Jesus said:  “whoever keeps my word will never see death”?  Are you keeping up your end of the bargain?

Fun Fact:  We assert our common, shared beliefs by reciting the Nicene Creed

Saint of the day: 
     Name:  Saint Enda
     What they are remembered for:  St. Enda was an Irishman known for his military victories.  His sister, St. Fanchea, convinced him to leave the military life and marry.  After finding his fiancé dead he decided to become a monk.
     Feast day:  March 21
    
Daily Notes: