Primary Session
Luke 10:38-42
Opening Prayer
Let us pray
O God,
Your love is all around us.
Thank you for showing your love for us through words and actions.
In the name of your son, Jesus Christ, we pray.
Amen.
Opening Life Reflection
The theme for today is listening to God’s Word. When we listen to people we help them feel welcome. To begin today’s session write the word “welcome” on a chalkboard or large sheet of paper. Invite the children to brainstorm what comes to mind when they think of the word welcome. Write down their responses. Discuss:
- How can you help people feel welcome at your school?
- How can you help people feel welcome in your home?
- How can you welcome God?
- How can you listen to God?
Allow time for discussion. God shows love for us through words and actions. When we listen to God’s Word we welcome God’s love into our hearts.
Listening to the Word of God
In the Gospel reading listen to how Martha and Mary welcome Jesus.
Read Luke 10:38-42.
Allow for silence.
Scripture Discussion Starters
- How does Mary welcome Jesus?
- What is Martha busy doing?
- Who takes the time to listen to Jesus?
- Why does Martha get upset with Mary?
- What does Jesus tell Martha and Mary?
Scripture Background
Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the Gospel.
In today’s Gospel Jesus visits Martha and Mary. Martha and Mary try to help Jesus feel welcome. Martha welcomes Jesus by serving and Mary welcomes Jesus by listening. Jesus tells Martha and Mary that listening is more important.
The Gospel reading today shows that by listening to the Word of God we follow Jesus’ commandment to love God and neighbor. The story of Martha and Mary teaches us that when we listen to Jesus we welcome him. And when we welcome Jesus into our lives we live as God’s children.
Questions for Deeper Reflection
- When do you listen to Jesus?
- How can you welcome Jesus?
- Why is it important to listen to Jesus?
[If you are not going to continue with the doctrinal discussion, proceed to the Gospel in Life.]
Doctrinal Discussion Starters
Hearers of the Word
God loves each one of us very much. God shows that love for us through words and actions. We look and listen for God’s message of love in the world around us.
The Word of God helps us to know God’s love for us. In the scriptures God’s Word is alive. When we listen to God’s Word in Scripture we find out how to live as God’s children. Many Catholics read and study Scripture. Catholics also listen to the Word of God at Mass.
- When do you listen to the Word of God?
- How does listening to God’s Word help you?
- Who helps teach you about the Bible?
The Gospel in Life
Ask a family member to read you a story from the Bible this week.
Connecting to Faith First® Legacy Edition
At Home Guide, theme 2
Kindergarten, chapter 6
Grade 1, chapter 13
Grade 2, chapter 15
Grade 3, chapter 13