Primary Session
Luke 9:18-24
Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
Dear Jesus,
thank you for loving us so much
that you were willing to suffer for us.
Help us to know you better.
Help us live as your disciples,
even if that means suffering.
Amen.
Opening Life Reflection
Invite the children to play a short game of Follow the Leader or Simon Says. You may be the leader or you can invite children to take turns being the leader. (If time or space does not allow an actual game, invite them to think of a time when they played the game.) After a few minutes, ask the children to share:
- What was it like to follow the leader’s directions?
- Was there an instance when you didn’t want to do what the leader said or you found the task difficult? What was that like?
- Why did you keep following directions?
Listening to the Word of God
In today’s Gospel, Jesus tells his disciples what they must do if they want to be his followers. Listen to what he says.
Proclaim Luke 9:18-24.
Allow time for silent reflection.
Scripture Discussion Starters
- What does Jesus tell the disciples will happen to him?
- What does Jesus say those who wish to be his followers must do?
- What do you think it means to “take up [your] cross?”
Scripture Background
Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the Gospel.
In the beginning of today’s Gospel, after Peter declares that Jesus is the Messiah, Jesus predicts that he will suffer, die and, on the third day, be raised. He adds that anyone who wishes to follow him must take up their cross daily. The Gospel writer, Luke, is explaining that suffering is part of being a disciple, so following Jesus means that one will have suffering in his or her life.
Questions for Deeper Reflection
- Why do you think Jesus warns his disciples that following him requires that they take up their cross?
- What do you think Jesus means by “take up [your] cross”?
- How is following Jesus like Follow the Leader or Simon Says?
[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]
Doctrinal Discussion Starters
The Cross in the Life of Jesus’ Followers
Jesus tells his disciples that he will suffer, die and be raised. He also tells them that, to follow him, they too must take up their cross. Jesus’ Cross is a symbol of great suffering. Jesus’ Death on the Cross is a symbol of God’s victory over evil.
We will all have times when we suffer and are hurt. In those times, we can remember that Jesus suffered, too. God can help us grow in holiness through our times of suffering.
Being a disciple of Jesus means doing what Jesus asks of us, even if it isn’t easy. We can trust that Jesus is always with us, loving us, and helping us do what he asks.
The Gospel in Life
This week, when you are feeling hurt or discouraged, remember that Jesus is with you. Ask him to help you to keep following him, even when it isn’t easy.
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