Primary Session
Matthew 16:21-27
Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
Lord Jesus, you teach us how to live and love.
Help us to follow you in all we say and do.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.
Opening Life Reflection
The theme for today is the cross in the life of the disciple. Begin with a game of follow-the-leader to help the children understand what it means to be a follower of Jesus. Have the children take turns at being the leader. The leader begins with an action such as clapping, then changes the action to something like turning around, and so on. All the children must follow the actions of the leader. Discuss:
• Why is Jesus a good leader?
• What does it mean to follow Jesus?
• Is it always easy to follow Jesus? Explain.
Allow time for discussion. As disciples of Jesus we follow Jesus in all we say and do. We also share in Jesus’ cross, his suffering and resurrection.
Listening to the Word of God
In the gospel today listen to Jesus tell his followers that they must take up the cross and follow him.
Read Matthew 16:21-27.
Allow for silence.
Scripture Discussion Starters
• What is going to happen to Jesus?
• How does Peter feel about what is going to happen to Jesus?
• What does Jesus tell his disciples about following him?
• How will Jesus reward those who follow him?
Scripture Background
In today’s gospel Jesus tells his disciples that he must suffer and die on the cross. Jesus tells his friends that his suffering and death will lead to new life. Peter does not like what he hears. He does not understand about the events to come.
Jesus tells his disciples that they too will have a cross to bear. Today’s gospel tells us that anyone who wishes to follow Jesus must take up his cross, and follow in the footsteps of Jesus. Jesus promises an everlasting reward for those who stay faithful to him.
Questions for Deeper Reflection
• Why must Jesus die on the cross?
• What happens on the third day after Jesus’ death on the cross?
• What does the symbol of the cross mean to you?
[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to theGospel in Life.]
Doctrinal Discussion Starters
The Cross in the Life of the Disciple
As followers of Jesus we are called to follow his example. Out of love Jesus suffered and died on the cross in order to give us all the gift of new life. The cross is an old method of suffering and death, but for the Christian it is also a symbol of new life. Jesus shows us how to find strength in times of suffering. All followers of Jesus accept a share in the cross.
Suffering is part of life. Our faith tells us that when we suffer we can find strength in the power of God who lifted Jesus from the cross. Pope John Paul II wrote that Jesus takes our suffering and changes it to strength. Jesus keeps those who are hurting close to him.
Catholics believe that through the experience of suffering and the cross we are led into the kingdom of God. We call Jesus’ passion, death, and resurrection the Paschal Mystery. Through suffering and death there is the resurrection. In the Paschal Mystery of Christ, we believe that God has taken death upon the cross and turned it into our salvation.
• Why are Christians called to follow Jesus’ example?
• How does Jesus keep you close in times of suffering?
• How can you help others who are suffering?
Sacrament Connection
In the sacrament of Confirmation the Holy Spirit strengthens us to live as followers of Jesus. Living as a follower of Jesus can be difficult at times. The gift of the Holy Spirit gives us the courage and strength we need to carry our crosses and continue the mission of Jesus on earth.
The Gospel in Life
How can you live as a follower of Jesus this week?
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