Praying with Sunday's Scriptures

Editor's note: To help small faith-sharing groups, couples, individuals and others continue the Renew 2000 experience of Praying with Sunday Scriptures, a Diocesan Faith Sharing Team has prepared prayer sessions using the Renew model.

	Dec. 21, 2003 -- Fourth Sunday of Advent Reading I: Micah 5:1-4 Reading II: Hebrews 10:5-10 Gospel: Luke 1:39-45

By Mary Ticknor

Focus: I have come to do your will.

Opening Prayer: Pray together the Magnificat.
Song for Reflection: "See How the Virgin Waits" from Today's Missal

Scripture Sharing: What thought, line or image from the Scripture readings caught your attention?

Reflection: In the reading from Luke, we hear the story of women of faith, obedience, joy and openness to God's will. How can the faith of Elizabeth and Mary serve as examples for us? Do we spend time discerning what God's will is in our lives? Are we open to God's will even when it does not concur with our own agenda? Do we make sacrifices with obedience, with joy? Do we have an "all things are possible with God" kind of faith?

Faith Sharing

1. Mary visited Elizabeth at a time when she needed her support. During this season of the year when many people struggle, do you respond to their needs and offer the "present" of your "presence" to them?

2. Both Mary and Elizabeth responded to God's will for them. Share an experience of your own openness to God's will.

3.Elizabeth was "filled with the Holy Spirit." How does the Holy Spirit fill you? What gifts have you received? How and with whom do you share your gifts of the Spirit?

4. Mary's visit brought Elizabeth much joy. How do you see the joy of this season expressed? Is it in a positive or a negative way?

5. Mary "believed that what was spoken by the Lord." Her belief was evident in her actions. Would people around you know what you believe by your actions? How visible is your faith in your daily life?

Action Response: How do you live stewardship as your way of life?

1. Take time for reflection on what things God has made possible in your life.

2. Create a prayer of thanksgiving to be said at a holiday gathering that centers on your family's blessings.

3. Share your gifts of the Spirit by volunteering for a ministry in your parish.

4. Invite someone who is alone to join a family holiday celebration.

Closing Prayer (Individuals offer their intentions.)

Pray together the Hail Mary.

(Ticknor is a member of the Diocesan Writing Team for Faith Sharing Sessions, 2003.)