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Appleton, WI

Homily Connect: Feb. 23

Seventh Sunday in Ordinary Time

LV 19:1-2, 17-18 | 1COR 3:16-23 | MT 5:38-48

Discussion Questions

  1. What was your reaction to the opening story of the Truck Driver?
  2. How would you sum up today’s Scripture focuses in your own words?
  3. What are your challenges to “revenge vs. resolution?
  4. How did you do on the “holiness scale?”
  5. What was your reaction to the Baseball player story?

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Live Connected – Simple Ways to Keep the Message Alive During The Week

  • Put the Scripture passage in a place where it can be seen each day
  • Make a list of those whom you feel you might need to approach for resolution or reconciliation
  • Consider a way to approach those on your list this Lent
  • If you feel you need the strength, celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation

Attitude/Heart Change

To be aware of my reactions to those whom I might consider “my enemies”. Am I reacting like a disciple of Jesus?

Action/Life Change

To intentionally and prayerfully seek advice for those situations that are difficult in my life and make an effort to respond as Jesus has asked.

Story of the Truck Driver-A Story of Revenge

Scripture Focuses

(Leviticus) The Lord said to Moses, “Be holy, for I the Lord, your God, am holy.” …Take no revenge and cherish no grudge against any of your people.

(Matthew)Jesus said to his disciples, “You have heard that it was said, ‘an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I say to you, offer no resistance to one who is evil.”

Reminder- Disciples

Energized by Jesus’ love, a disciple strives to think feel and act like him. The Ultimate Question: Why we often choose revenge over resolution and reconciliation?

Rate Yourself

On a holiness scale of 1-10, where do you fall in loving your enemies as yourself?

The Example of a Baseball Player

The example of Jesus?

Jesus Speaks of Going Deeper

It is not an eye for an eye and a tooth for a tooth but rather taking the high road, even though it is a difficult one to travel. It’s about going the extra mile, giving the extra effort with forgiveness and love.

Final Thought

This week we will enter into the season of Lent. Our time of conversion and renewal. Could we focus on one person we struggle with even if they don’t deserve it?