Helping the Poor, Living in Peace

Readings for Sunday, September 18, 2016 — 25th Sunday of Ordinary Time

Amos 8:4-7; Psalm 113:1-2, 4-8; 1 Timothy 2:1-8; Luke 16:1-13

Suggested Reflection Questions:

  • The prophet Amos assures us that God takes careful note of the way the greedy dehumanize the poor. How does greed damage our relationship with God and each other?

  • The Lord lifts up the poor from places of shame and dishonor. Today’s psalm proclaims a world order wherein the poor are elevated to sit with princes. How, as people of faith, can we participate in this vision of justice in our everyday lives?

  • Paul writes to Timothy about the need for the faithful to pray for those in power so that they (and all) may live with dignity and peace. He encourages them to lift up their hands in prayer without anger or argument. How might we heed Paul’s words today to engage in societal change that seeks the recognition that all people deserve to live with dignity and peace?