Intermediate Session
Genesis 18:1-10a
Luke 10:38-42
Opening Prayer
Let us pray.
O God,
you speak to us in so many ways.
Help us listen to your Word with open hearts.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.
Opening Life Reflection
The theme for today is listening to the Word of God. Begin the session with a listening exercise. Divide the group of children into pairs of two. Have the pairs interview each other and find out their partner’s name, where they live and what they like to do in their spare time. Explain the need to listen when the person is speaking. Have the children listen to their partner for two minutes. After the interview, have the listener repeat back to their partner what they heard. Explain that a good listener is able to focus on another person and not on himself or herself. Discuss:
- What helps you to be a good listener?
- Why is it important to be a good listener?
- How does it feel when someone really listens to you?
- How can you listen to God?
Allow time for discussion. God speaks to us through words and actions. Listening to the Word of God helps us get to know God better.
Listening to the Word of God
In the Old Testament reading Abraham and Sarah hear God’s Word. Listen to find out what God tells them.
Read Genesis 18:1-10a.
Allow for silence.
Scripture Discussion Starters
- Who brings Abraham and Sarah the Word of God?
- How do Abraham and Sarah welcome their guests?
- What are Abraham and Sarah promised?
In the Gospel reading Jesus visits with Martha and Mary. Listen to how they welcome Jesus.
Read Luke 10:38-42.
Allow for silence.
- How does Mary welcome Jesus?
- What is Martha busy doing?
- Why does Martha get upset with Mary?
- Who takes the time to listen to Jesus?
- What does Jesus tell Martha and Mary?
Scripture Background
Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the readings.
In the Old Testament reading today Abraham and Sarah hear the Word of God. The messengers of God’s Word are three men who appear near Abraham’s tent. Abraham and Sarah welcome the strangers with generous hospitality. And with gratitude, the divine visitors promise the elderly couple offspring. In serving these three strangers, Abraham and Sarah unwittingly serve the Lord God.
This passage from the Book of Genesis is part of a cycle of stories that point out the obedience of Abraham in contrast to the sin of Adam. Today’s reading reveals God’s commitment to the Jewish people in the person of their patriarch, Abraham.
Today’s Gospel also presents a story of hospitality where the Lord himself is being served. Martha and Mary welcome Jesus into their home with generous hospitality. Martha is attentive to the details of serving while Mary is attentive to Jesus. Jesus tells the women that Mary has chosen the better part.
The Gospel reading today further explains the meaning of Jesus’ commandment to love God and neighbor by stressing the importance of being receptive to the Word of God. Martha’s anxiety is chastised and Mary’s attentive listening is honored. This story reveals that listening to Jesus is crucial to receiving him.
Questions for Deeper Reflection
- How do you help others feel welcome?
- What do these readings say about the importance of listening?
- How can you listen to Jesus?
[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]
Doctrinal Discussion Starters
Hearers of the Word
God’s loving presence is all around us. God communicates with us in many ways. The scriptures reveal that God’s Word is not a lifeless word limited to the printed page or to the spoken proclamation. The living Word of God is truth revealed in Jesus Christ through his life, his ministry, his suffering, death, and resurrection.
- When do you listen to God’s Word?
- Who helps you to understand Scripture?
- How does listening to the Word of God help you grow in faith?
The Gospel in Life
Read a story from the Bible this week and listen for what God is saying to you.
Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Guide, theme 2
Grade 4, chapter 2
Grade 5, chapter 2
Grade 6, chapter 2