Questions and Appeals

12/3/2020

A Reflection on the Second Reading for March 15th, 2020:
Third Sunday of Lent

Romans 5.1-2, 5-8

Brothers and sisters: Since we are justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have obtained access to this grace in which we stand; and we boast in our hope of sharing the glory of God.

And hope does not disappoint us, because God’s love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us. For while we were still weak, at the right time Christ died for the ungodly. Indeed, rarely will anyone die for a righteous person — though perhaps for a good person someone might actually dare to die. But God proves his love for us in that while we still were sinners Christ died for us.

Pause. Pray.

And then read more...

This reading inspired questions and appeals, for use during morning prayer time. Any number of these could be used in journaling or personal meditation:

Rom 5:1

Father, how can I better understand and receive faith as a gift from You? How do You want me to express my faith through my actions today?
Christ, how would You like to lead me into Your peace? How can I better seek Your peace today?

Rom 5:2

Christ, what barriers in my life prevent me from accessing Your grace?
God the Father, how can I hope to share Your glory today?

Rom 5:5

Holy Spirit, please pour Your love into my heart in new ways this morning and let me be aware of Your presence throughout the day.
Spirit of God, please help me use Your gifts of wisdom, understanding, counsel, fortitude, knowledge, piety, and fear of the Lord. Please help me pay attention and watch for Your fruits: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

Rom 5:6

Christ, please help me understand the depth of Your love — that You would sacrifice Your life for me in my weakness.
Jesus, how are You calling me to love others in their weakness? How are You inviting me to love myself in my weakness?

Rom 5:7

Christ, please grant me the grace to accept any invitations You make to me today to die to self so that I may serve others in life-giving ways.
Jesus, please help me see others with Your love. Help me choose to love others freely and unconditionally, guided by Your Spirit.

Rom 5:8

Father, have I been living or acting as if you did not already prove Your love for me? How can I live in the truth and knowledge of Your love?
Christ, thank you for saving me and for laying down Your life for me. Holy Spirit, please remind me of this great love throughout my day and help me seek communion with Christ and my neighbours.

Kendra L.