Seeking God’s Help

Readings for Sunday, August 18, 2019 — 20th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Jeremiah 38: 4-6, 8-10; Psalm 40: 2-4, 18; Hebrews 12:1-4; Luke 12:49-53

Suggested Reflection Questions

  • The psalmist describes how God came to his aid in a time of need. In what ways do we ask for God’s help in our lives? How can we separate the things that we simply want from the things we actually need? Why can it be hard to ask for help sometimes?
  •  The second reading asks us to “persevere when running the race,” as Jesus did when he saved us from our sins. How does Jesus’ perseverance inspire you today? What races, literal and figurative, do you need his help in continuing to run?
  • In today’s reading from Luke, Jesus says he has come to “set the earth on fire” and sow division. This is a stark contrast to the loving Jesus that we are used to; why do you think Jesus and his message are portrayed so differently here?