“Merciful Like the Father”

Readings for October 29, 2017

Exodus 22:20-26; Psalm 18:2-3, 3-4, 47, 51; 1 Thessalonians 1:5C-10; Matthew 22:34-40

Suggested Reflection Questions:

  • In the first reading from Exodus, God says, “I am compassionate.” The motto chosen by Pope Francis for the Year of Mercy was “Merciful like the Father.” What does this mean for us? What are some corporal or spiritual works of mercy you can practice regularly that will glorify God and show the world his image of compassionate mercy?
  • St. Paul writes to the Thessalonians, “From you the word of the Lord has sounded forth not only in Macedonia and in Achaia, but in every place your faith in God has gone forth, so that we have no need to say anything.” How is evangelization an act of mercy? A quote attributed to St. Francis of Assisi reads: “Preach the Gospel at all times; when necessary, use words.” How can our faith in God go forth to others, in mercy and in love?  
  • Jesus says the greatest and first commandment is to love the Lord, and the second is to love our neighbor. Consider the first reading from Exodus. How does love of the Lord flow into love of our neighbor, and love of neighbor flow into love of the Lord? If we truly love God, how do we express that love to those around us? What’s one area of your life where you can work on showing more love to your neighbor?