Lectionary: 671
Read the Gospel: John 2:13-22
Gospel Summary
In the first part of today’s Gospel, Jesus finds that the Temple in Jerusalem is being used for purposes other than prayer and worship. He fashions a whip out of cords and drives out the vendors and the moneychangers. He speaks of destroying the temple and raising it up. The people thought he was referring to the Temple building, which had been under construction for forty-six years, but Jesus was referring to his impending Death and Resurrection.
Reflection for Parents
Just as the parish church has a purpose as a gathering place for the People of God and as a place for worship and prayer, so the domestic Church—the home—has the purpose of cultivating faith and Christian morals and values. Think about your domestic Church. How is your home being used as a holy place where growth in faith is encouraged and nurtured? What morals and values are you teaching your children by your example? Is it time for some domestic Church cleaning?
Bringing the Good News Into Your Family
Take a walking tour of your parish church and its additional facilities. As you do so, talk about how each part of the church, additional buildings, and grounds is used to help spread the Gospel message. For example, Mass is held in the church itself. The school is used for religious education, where people of all ages learn more about their faith. The grounds are used for parish picnics and functions that help people feel welcome and part of a community of faith. There may be space set aside for a food pantry, a clothes closet, or the backpack lunch program.
Discussion Starters
This week, when you return home from your parish tour, lead your family members in a discussion of how your home is used to help spread the Gospel message. Perhaps yours is a home where friends feel welcome and safe to come hang out or to talk about problems and concerns. Perhaps yours is a home where neighborhood parties are held and people become friends. Ask for suggestions of new ways to do so—perhaps by inviting an elderly family member or neighbor to dinner, or by designating a spare closet or spot as a collection place for clothing, games, books, and other items to be donated to local charities.
Call Us Today!