Twenty-ninth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year B, Intermediate

Intermediate Session
Isaiah 53:10-11
Mark 10:35-45

Opening Prayer

Let us pray,
Jesus our savior,
You suffered and died so that we could live with God forever.
Help us turn to you in times of suffering.
Thank you for your generous love.
In the name of Jesus Christ we pray.
Amen.

Opening Life Reflection

Gather materials from a variety of charitable organizations such as Catholic Relief Services or Food for the Poor. Begin the session by discussing the many ways people suffer in our world. Discuss:

• What kind of suffering do you hear about in the news or see in the world around you?
• Where does poverty exist in your community?
• What is being done to help?

Discuss the work of charitable organizations around the world. Give examples of what is being done locally and world wide to help alleviate poverty and suffering. Explain that Jesus came into the world to show us that good overcomes evil.

Listening to the Word of God

In the Old Testament reading hear to how God’s servant must suffer for the sake of many.
Read Isaiah 53:10-11.
Allow for silence.

Scripture Discussion Starters

• Why does God’s servant have to suffer?
• What good does the servant’s suffering bring about?
• Does the servant remind you of Jesus? If so, how?

In the gospel reading Jesus tells his disciples that he came into the world to save us from our sins. Listen to Jesus trying to inform his disciples about his approaching death.

Read Mark 10:42-45.
Allow for silence.

• Why did Jesus want to inform his disciples about his approaching death?
• Did the disciples understand what Jesus was trying to tell them?
• Why did Jesus say that he came to serve and not to be served?

Scripture Background

Provide 2-3 minutes of background information on the readings using the Catechist Background section.

The first reading from Isaiah tells of the coming of a savior whose suffering and death will save God’s people. The Servant in this passage is one who lays down his life as an offering for sin. We also hear that there is deliverance for this servant, which predicts the resurrection of Jesus.

In today’s gospel reading Jesus tries to tell his disciples about his approaching death. Jesus understands that he must suffer and die in order to save the people of God. In Mark’s gospel, Jesus’ death is not something that takes Jesus by surprise. He journeys to Jerusalem where he knows that death awaits him, while trying to help his disciples realize that he must suffer and die in order for God’s glory to be revealed. Through the suffering and death of Jesus we have gained glorious resurrection and our redemption.

Questions for Deeper Reflection

• What does the Christian symbol of a cross or crucifix remind you of?
• How can remembering the suffering and death of Jesus help you when you are hurting?
• What can we do to help others who are suffering?

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

Doctrinal Discussion Starters

Redemption by Christ’s Suffering

For Catholic Christians, the mystery of the cross and resurrection of Jesus Christ is the focal point of faith. Jesus saves us from sin and death. The mystery of our salvation unfolds as Jesus walks among us on earth. He gives his life, offering himself to God as one of us in all things but sin.

We are saved because God loves us. Through Jesus we are joined with God when we open our hearts to God’s love. Only through the eyes of faith can we understand the salvation that is ours through Jesus.

• How can you show God that you are grateful for the gift of salvation?
• Does it help you to remember that there is life after death?
• Do you to turn to Jesus for help when you are suffering?
• How can you bring hope to those who are suffering?

The Gospel in Life

With your family, discuss possible ways that you can support a charitable organization such as those discussed in the beginning of the session.