17th Sunday In Ordinary Time (SCRIPTURE READING: JOHN 6:1-15)

...One of his disciples, Andrew, the brother of Simon Peter, said to him, “There is a boy here who has five barley loaves and two fish; but what good are these for so many?” Jesus said, “Have the people recline.” Now there was a great deal of grass in that place. So the men reclined, about five thousand in number. Then Jesus took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed them to those who were reclining, and also as much of the fish as they wanted...

 

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION:

1.  Where did the loaves and fish come from?  According to Philip and Andrew,

     could 5 loaves and 2 fish be enough to feed the 5000?  What were their replies?

2.  What did Jesus do with the 5 loaves and 2 fish?  How was he able to that? 

     Where does he get the power to do this? 

3.  When Jesus gave out the loaves and fish, were there many leftovers?  What

     does this tell you about the person of Jesus?
4.  What was the reaction of the people?  After all that had happened, what did

     Jesus do?  Why do you think he did that? 

 

BY HEART – MEDITATION:

A rod in my hands

will keep away a wild animal. 

A rod in Moses' hands

will part the mighty sea.

It depends on whose hands it's in.

A sling shot in my hands is a kid's toy.
A sling shot in David's hand

is a mighty weapon.

It depends on whose hands it's in.

 

Two fish and 5 loaves of bread in my hands

is a couple of fish sandwiches.

Two fish and 5 loaves of bread in Jesus' hands

will feed thousands.
It depends on whose hands it's in.

Nails in my hands might produce a birdhouse.
Nails in Jesus Christ's hands

will produce salvation for the entire world.

It depends on whose hands it's in.

 

As you see now, it depends on whose hands it's in. So put your concerns, your worries, your fears, your hopes, your dreams, your families, and your relationships in God's hands, because,
"It depends on whose hands it's in".

INtercessions:

1.  For the shepherds of the Church, that may depend

     on the power and guidance of the Spirit in the life

     and ministry

2. For all who hunger for the necessities of life, that  

    world leaders may ensure the just distribution of

    the world’s goods

3. For the sick and dying, that they may experience

    the compassion of God in the midst of their pain

    and suffering

4. For young people, that they may be generous in

    offering themselves in selfless service for their

    brethren
5. For those who have died, that they may receive the

    promise of eternal life from the Good Shepherd

 

Covenant Prayer:

Lord Jesus Christ, by your suffering, death and resurrection, you give us new life:  a life filled with joy and purpose; a life only you can give it, for you are the source of life.  Guide us on our pilgrimage of life, that following you faithfully as your disciples, we may witness boldly to the world, your love and truth.  Enlighten our minds and hearts that your Word which we read and meditated may take roots in our lives.  Help us not to fall into sin and if we do fall due to our human weakness, bring us back to you for you are the way, the truth and the life. We also pray for all our brothers and sisters, wherever they are, who are committed to this prayer, that their faith may be strengthened, their hope assured and their love fulfilled.  In your name we humbly pray.  Amen
 


7Minutes4jesus – The 7 Steps:
 1.  Silence            
2.  Praise/Worship         
3.  Scripture Reading
4.  Questions for Reflection
 5.  By Heart – Meditation 
6.  Intercession
 7.  Covenant Prayer

 

“...Let us not be satisfied with just giving money. Money is not enough, money can be got, but they need your hearts to love them. So, spread your love everywhere you go...”

                   Mother Teresa