Intermediate Session
Wisdom 2:12, 17-20
Mark 9:30-37
Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
God of Wisdom,
You show us how to serve one another through the example of your son Jesus.
Help us to remember that when we serve those in need,
we are following the example of Jesus.
We pray in the name of Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Opening Life Reflection
Invite the children to reflect on the meaning of the word “service.” Then discuss:
- Name some people who are involved in service within the church. What do they do?
- Name some people who are involved in service in your school. What do they do?
- Name some people who are involved in service in your home. What do they do?
Allow time for discussion. Jesus lived a life of service. We learn how to serve one another by following the example of Jesus.
Listening to the Word of God
Listen to today’s Old Testament reading to find out how God’s servant is tested.
Read Wisdom 2:12, 17-20.
Allow for silence.
Scripture Discussion Starters
- Why is the righteous man being tested?
- If he is just, how will he be protected?
- When you hear about the torment and death of the righteous man, who are you reminded of?
In the gospel today Jesus talks about the need to serve others.
Read Mark 9:30-37.
Allow for silence.
- What does Jesus say to his disciples about what is going to happen to him?
- Do the disciples understand what Jesus is telling them?
- Do they ask him any questions? Why or why not?
- What do the disciples argue about on the way?
- What does Jesus say to them about who is the greatest?
Scripture Background
Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the readings using the Catechist Background section.
In the reading from the Old Testament we hear about a righteous man who is being tested. At the time that this book was written it was believed that wicked people thought that everything ended at death and good people believed in life after death. In the first reading today, the good and just man is being tested. This passage prepares us to hear about what is going to happen to Jesus.
In the gospel reading, we hear Jesus predict his own suffering and death. Jesus tells his disciples that he is going to be betrayed and killed. The disciples do not understand what Jesus is trying to tell them and they are afraid to ask any questions. We can imagine how lonely Jesus must have felt when his friends couldn’t understand him.
Today’s gospel shows us the disciples arguing about which one of them is the greatest. Jesus points out that greatness is determined by how well a person serves others. He tells his disciples that whoever wants to be first must be last and the servant of all. Taking a small child into his arms, Jesus says that whoever welcomes a child welcomes him. The point that Jesus makes here is that we are to care for the small and powerless and by doing so we care for Jesus.
Questions for Deeper Reflection
- How does this reading help you to define greatness?
- Who are some of the powerless people in our world today?
- Does it help you to know that when you serve the poor and powerless you serve Jesus? Explain.
(If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.)
Doctrinal Discussion Starters
The Call to Service
In the gospels Jesus shows us how to serve one another. Jesus gave his life to serve humanity. Through the example of Jesus we learn that a person’s willingness and ability to serve others determines true greatness.
As Catholic Christians, we are baptized into a life of service. We follow Jesus’ example by feeding the hungry, helping the poor, caring for the sick and welcoming the outcast. We also live out our baptismal call by acting as peacemakers in the world.
God has given each person unique gifts and talents. These gifts are given so that we can make the world a better place and give glory to God.
- What are some of your God-given gifts?
- How can you use your talents to serve others?
- How can you be a peacemaker at home and at school?
The Gospel in Life
Share the gifts and talents that God has given you. It may help to ask a family member or friend what spe
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