Twelfth Sunday in Ordinary Time - A - June 25, 2017

Don't Be Afraid!

Don't be afraid. Great advice but easier said than done. We want to give our worries and concerns to God, but we also need to take responsibilities for our actions. And that's the problem. We mistake responsibility with control. When Jesus said, 'Don't be afraid' he meant God's in charge but we need to actively cooperate with him, not take control of the situation.

Sunday Studies:

FIRST READING Jeremiah 20 addressed the slander and denunciation the prophet faced in his calling. Yet God would care for him, praised be the Lord!

PSALM While Psalm 69 prayed for vengeance, it also focused upon God. He, not humans should bring ultimate justice.

SECOND READING In his letter to the Romans, St. Paul remarked on the sin and its result, death. But he also recognized that. despite evil and destruction, God's grace outstripped both.

GOSPEL In Matthew 10, Jesus told his followers to reject fear even in the face of persecution. Instead, they should evangelize and allow God to do the rest.

Other Resources:

DAILY READINGS Readings for the Eleventh Week in Ordinary Time

CHILDREN'S READINGS In the first reading, poor Jack heard rumors about himself and reflected on his situation like Jeremiah did. In the gospel story, do matter what Crystal did as a goalie, she wasn't satisfied until she received encouragement from the coach. Then, she played a great game. Jesus encouraged us not to worry but to do our best and let God do the rest.

FAMILY ACTIVITY Act out various scenes of worry as a way to understand the gospel and develop ways to cope with anxiety.