Lectionary: 84C
Read: Luke 6:39-45
Gospel Summary
Today’s Gospel reading could be viewed as a collection of mini-teachings and practical discipleship reminders. At its conclusion, Jesus says, “A good person out of the store of goodness in his heart produces good, but an evil person out of a store of evil produces evil; for from the fullness of the heart the mouth speaks” (Luke 6:46).
Reflection for Parents
The beginning of today’s Gospel reading contains much food for thought for parents and all teachers of the faith. Jesus asks, “Can a blind person guide a blind person?” (Luke 6:39) and he says, “ . . . [W]hen fully trained, every disciple will be like his teacher” (Luke 6:40). Today, take time to think about what you are doing to grow in your knowledge of the Catholic faith and in your relationship with God. Realize the importance of your role as the primary teacher of the faith to your child. Ask for the help and wisdom of the Holy Spirit in fulfilling this valuable ministry.
Bringing the Good News Into Your Family
Focus your family on the last portion of today’s Gospel reading, Luke 6:43-45. Invite family members to give examples of what it means to bear good fruit. For example, “Bearing good fruit means telling the truth” or “Bearing good fruit means sharing God’s love with others.” Explain that the Bible names nine fruits of the Holy Spirit that are examples of good fruit. Invite your family members to listen as you read Galatians 5:22-23. Review the Fruits of the Holy Spirit as they are named in the Galatians passage: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.
Discussion Starters
In place of discussion starter questions, work together to create a Fruits of the Holy Spirit poster or mobile. Invite everyone to take part in cutting out a total of nine fruit shapes from various colors of construction paper. On each shape write one of the Fruits of the Holy Spirit. Either create a poster of the Fruits of the Holy Spirit or use hangers and yarn or string to create a mobile for display near your family prayer table or in a place where family members will see it. Then pray together, “Holy Spirit, help us always to bear good fruit!”
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