Eighteenth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year C, primary

Primary Session

Luke 12:13-21

Opening Prayer

Let us pray.
Generous God, you give us every good gift.
Help us to share what we have with others and to treat others with respect.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.

 

Opening Life Reflection

In today’s session we will focus on putting God first in our lives. Begin by inviting the children to draw a picture of one thing for which they are thankful. Provide paper and crayons. Allow children to show their pictures and discuss:

• What are you most thankful for?
• Do you thank God for what you have been given?
• Do you share what you have with others?
• Have you ever wanted something that someone else has?
• How can wanting what someone else has keep us from showing them love and respect?

When God comes first in our lives, the things that we have or want are not so important. God gives us good things to share with others.

 

Listening to the Word of God

In the Gospel reading listen to find out what is most important in life.

Read Luke 12:13-21.

Allow for silence.

 

Scripture Discussion Starters

• Why does this reading warn against greed?
• How can greed turn a person away from God?
• What does this reading tell us about what is most important in life?

 

Scripture Background

Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the gospel.

The Gospel reading today stresses what is most important in life. God is most important. When God comes first in our lives all other things are put in the right place. Today’s passage begins with a warning against greed. Greed can get in the way of our relationship with God and others. Jesus tells the story of a rich landowner who foolishly plans to store his treasure. Jesus tells this story to help his followers understand that true riches are found in God alone.

 

Questions for Deeper Reflection

• What are the most important things in your life?
• How can you share what you have with others?
• How can you put God first in your life?

[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]

 

Doctrinal Discussion Starters

The Tenth Commandment

The tenth commandment, “You shall not covet your neighbor’s goods,” warns against greed. Greed is the desire to constantly want more and more things. The tenth commandment teaches us to respect others and their belongings.

Our faith teaches us that children in God’s family care for and respect one another. Wanting what another person has is wrong when it leads to disrespect for that person.

Following the tenth commandment keeps our hearts in the right place. It keeps us thankful for the gifts that God has given us.

• How do you show care and respect for others?
• How do you show respect for others’ belongings?
• Why is it important to show care and respect for others?

 

The Gospel in Life

How can you show respect for what belongs to others this week?

Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Family Guide, theme 15
Kindergarten, chapter 22
Grade 1, chapter 19
Grade 2, chapter 20
Grade 3, chapter 20