Faith First for Families Sunday Gospel Reflections Thirtieth Sunday in Ordinary Time–Year C

October 24, 2010
Read Sunday’s Gospel, Luke 18:9-14.
Gospel Summary
From time to time our children live in a “me first world,” but Jesus wasn’t too impressed
with the self-centeredness of the Pharisee in today’s Gospel. The Pharisee was quite
certain that he was a good and righteous man–better than most. For sure, he was better
than the tax collector. But as Jesus often did in his teachings, he turned society’s ideas
upside down. It was really the humble tax collector recognizing his own sinfulness that
Jesus said would be exalted.
Reflection for Parents
We are very important in the lives of our children, but do we allow them to see us walk
humbly with God? Do we allow them to see us on our knees and hear us admit our
weaknesses to God? Consider how you might represent the tax collector to your
children. How might they see you like this Pharisee?
Bringing the Gospel into Your Family
Prayer is an important part of this scripture. With your child(ren), create a prayer space
in your home. Allow them to place objects they find appropriate such as candles, the
Bible, pictures, fabric, figures and other items. Use the space together every day.
Discussion Starters
1. I was especially humble before God in prayer when . . .
2. I know I’m not a perfect parent and I need God’s help to . . .
3. One time I was like the Pharisee when . . .

Adult Faith

See Sister if you are interested in seeking out information about Adult Formation. Currently our Parish has RICA classes.

Gospel Reflections from FaithFirst.com

Faith First for Families

Sunday Gospel Reflections

Twenty-Ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time–Year C

October 17, 2010

Read Sunday’s Gospel, Luke 18:1-8.

Gospel Summary

Like a relentless child, the widow in Jesus’ parable wouldn’t give up. She continually

begged the judge for justice against her opponents. Not because the judge wanted to see

justice done, but because he grew tired of the woman’s pleading, he granted her request.

The point Jesus wanted to make with this story is how much our loving God will answer

our prayers if we persist in our asking.

Reflection for Families

What happens when our children pester us long enough for something? If it’s not life

threatening and they’ve bugged us long enough, we usually find a way of giving in

without losing face. We know just how the judge in Luke’s Gospel felt! Let the story of

the persistent widow strengthen your prayers. Even if they are not answered in just the

way we ask, God hears our prayers and cares for us.

Bringing the Gospel into Your Family

Be faithful praying with your children. Teach them simple prayers for starting their day,

grace before meals, and prayers at bedtime. Say prayers every day. Here are some

suggestions:

A Morning Prayer:

Amen.

Dear God, We offer this day to you and all we think and say and do.

A Table Grace:

thy bounty. Through Christ, our Lord. Amen

Bless us O, Lord; and these they gifts which we are about to receive from

A Bedtime Prayer:

here. Ever this night be at my side, to light, to guard, to rule and to guide. Amen.

Angel of God, my guardian dear, to whom God’s love commits me

Discussion Starters

1. God answered my prayer in a way that totally surprised me when . . .

2. The best part of praying with my family is . . .

3. I have never given up asking for . . .

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