Brokenhearted

Readings for Sunday, February 8 — Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time

Job 7:1-4, 6-7; Psalm 147: 1-6; 1 Corinthians 9:16-19, 22-23; Mark 1:29-39

Suggested Reflection Questions:

  • The first reading from Job expresses a sense of hopelessness and depression. When have you experienced such desolation — the feeling that life has no meaning or that God is absent?

  • Last week, in the Psalm, we heard about the hardness of heart we can have. This week, we hear about being brokenhearted. Reflect on some times that you have felt brokenhearted. Why do you think we are hearing so much about the state of our hearts in these readings? How can you invite Jesus to heal your heart, during the times it feels broken?

  • Both Paul in the second reading and Jesus in the gospel experience their ministry as living out the purpose for their lives. Do you feel like you are living out God’s purpose for your life right now through your work and relationships?

  • In the Gospel reading, we see Jesus being incredibly open to God’s call, moving through his day in response to each of the needs that people bring to him. How do you respond when opportunities to serve present themselves to you?