When Jesus was in Jerusalem, he went to the pool of Bethesda, which had five porches around it. There he saw the many sick and afflicted people who waited next to the pool. They believed that when the water in the pool stirred and bubbled, the first one who entered the pool would be healed. One man had lain by the pool for many years. That day, however, he listened intently when Jesus spoke. In response, he took up his bed and walked. This happened on the Sabbath day.
Discussion Questions
When Jesus healed someone, he often said, “Your faith has made you whole.” What does the phrase, “Take up your bed and walk,” tell us about healing? When people heard Jesus teach about God, they felt better in mind and body. Why?
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| Waiting for the moving of the water |
A large crowd gathered beside the Sea of Galilee to hear Jesus. Some nearby fishermen allowed Jesus to sit in their boat to teach. When he was done teaching, Jesus wanted to help the fishermen who had been out all night but caught nothing. So, he told them where to let down their nets. Despite their doubts, they did as Jesus directed and soon caught more fish than their nets could handle. This greatly impressed the fishermen. And from that day on, they followed Jesus.
Discussion Questions
This was a life-changing event for these fishermen. Who were they? Why did it cause them to follow Jesus? As time went on, this bountiful catch became known as “the first miraculous catch of fish.”
Luke 5:1-11 ... Epiphany 5C ... Interfaith theme: Self-dedication and Divine Benediction ... Curriculum Information
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| Let down your nets for a catch |
Jesus encouraged his disciples to pray often and trust that God fully understands their prayers. He said, “Your Father knows what you need even before you ask.” One day, a disciple said to Jesus, "Lord, teach us to pray,” like John the Baptist taught his disciples. So, Jesus gave them a model prayer that became known as the Lord’s Prayer. Part of the prayer says, “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.”
People face many types of temptation. For example, sometimes we are tempted to be selfish or unkind. We need to do our part to overcome temptation. But what is this prayer also telling us? How do we become more like our perfect Father?
Matthew 6:5-15 ... Proper 12C for Luke 11:1-4 ... Interfaith theme: Trust and Guidance ... Curriculum Information
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| Teach us to pray |
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| I who speak to you am he |
Jesus climbed a high hill, and his disciples gathered around to hear him teach. He taught them many things about true happiness. One thing he said was, “Blessed are they who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake; for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” And he said, “Rejoice and be exceedingly glad, for great is your reward in heaven.” We also see this written as, “Happy are they who are persecuted.” It is the eighth Beatitude from the Sermon on the Mount.
Discussion Questions
Jesus was persecuted, and he knew his disciples would face persecution after his death. Can you think of some people today who are persecuted? Why are people persecuted when they stand up for what is right and good?
Matthew 5:1-12 ... Epiphany 4A ... Interfaith theme: Rewards and Punishments ... Curriculum Information
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| For theirs is the kingdom of heaven |
