Lectionary: 47
Read the Gospel: Luke 24:35-48
Gospel Summary
Jesus again says to his disciples, “Peace be with you.” This startles and terrifies them, but Jesus shows them his hands and his feet, and they know that he is indeed who he says he is. He opens their minds to understand the Scriptures, and tells them that they have been witnesses to all the things the prophets foretold.
Reflection for Parents
Think back over the years since your children were born. As you have watched them change and grow, where have you witnessed the power of God in their lives? How have you come to know, through watching them, that God is who he says he is—Creator, love, forgiveness, compassion, and mercy? What works of God have you been a witness to?
Bringing the Gospel Into Your Family
Gather around your family prayer table. Place upon it a globe or a map of the world. Point out the countries that are served through your parish’s missionary efforts or through the missionary efforts of the Church (see crs.org, the official Web site of Catholic Relief services, for information on the Church’s worldwide outreach ministry). Explain that many people in such countries are witnesses to the power of God because of the support, prayers, and generosity of families just like your family. Think of ways your family can support the outreach efforts of your parish or of the worldwide Catholic Church. Pray together for missionaries throughout the world.
Discussion Starters
In place of discussion starter questions, remain gathered around the globe or map of the world. Choose one country you have mentioned in your family discussion today. Work together to learn more about that country. What is its capital city? How many people live in that country? What is the major religion in that country? Try a food from that country. Draw a picture of that country’s flag. Find out what the Catholic Church is doing to make a difference there. Make a commitment to pray for the people in that country who are in need and, if possible, donate to a missionary outreach that serves that country.
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