Readings for August 31, 2014 — 22nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Jeremiah 20:7-9; Psalm 63:2, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9; Romans 12:1-2; Matthew 16:21-27

Suggested Reflection Questions:

• As a prophet, it was Jeremiah’s position to proclaim God’s will to the people. In doing so however, the people persecuted him and were angry with the messages he was sharing. Often times, we, too, can feel persecuted for following the teachings of our faith. Doing what is right isn’t always going to be easy and sometimes it is much harder than doing the opposite. Was there ever a time that you were treated poorly even though you were doing what was right? What were people’s reactions like? How did it make you feel?

• Everything we do is a reflection of who we are. That is why it is so important that our words and beliefs match our actions. It is one thing to say what you believe, but it is another thing to fully live it. In today’s reading, Paul reminds us not to go along with the crowd or what is popular opinion but to do what is the will of God. How can you show an example of your faith in action today? What makes it difficult to do so? What are obstacles you face in trying to fully live out your faith?

• In this Gospel reading, Peter tries to save Jesus from suffering. Jesus, however, explains that he is following God’s plan for Him and that Peter is trying to stand in the way of that. How often do we try to change God’s plan for us? Name a time that you tried to do so. Sometimes we like to think we know better or hope to avoid pain and suffering by doing things our own way. However it is often in the hardships we endure that we are brought closer to God and to our faith.