Third Sunday of Advent - Year A
December 11, 2016
Gospel: Mt 11:2-11
When John the Baptist heard in prison of the works of
the Christ, he sent his disciples to Jesus with this question, “Are you the one who is to
come (1), or should we look for another?” Jesus said to them in
reply, “Go and tell John what you hear and see: the blind regain their sight, the
lame walk, lepers
(2) are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor
have the good news proclaimed to them. And blessed is the one who takes no offense at (3)
me.”
As they were going off, Jesus began to speak to the
crowds about John, “What did you go out to the desert to see? A reed swayed by
the wind? Then what did you go out to see? Someone dressed in fine clothing? Those
who wear fine clothing are in royal palaces. Then why did you go out? To see a
prophet? Yes, I tell you, and more than a prophet. This is the one about whom
it is written: Behold, I am sending my messenger ahead of you; he will prepare
your way before you. Amen, I say to you, among those born of women there has
been none greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven
is greater than he.”
http://www.usccb.org
The difficult words
(1)The one who is to come is the Messiah.
(2)Lepers had a terrible disease that made
their skin and bones stink and rot away. To be made clean of leprosy meant to
be healed of the disease.
(3)To take offense at means to resent or get angry at
someone.
This week’s spotlight
The Messiah is coming!
During Advent, to prepare ourselves for Christmas, we
listen to the prophet Isaiah. When the people of Israel were going through some
very difficult times, Isaiah urged them not to lose hope. He told them that God
will send a Messiah, a special leader who will save them from their sins. That
promised Messiah is Jesus Christ "who takes away the sins of the
world," as we hear each week at Mass.
The Good News
Whenever we hear of a happy event – the birth of a
baby, an award at school, a friend feeling better after an illness - we call it
“good news." The word “Gospel” also means "good news." The good
news of the Gospels is that God loves us so much that he sent his only son,
Jesus, to save us by dying for our sins and rising again to new life.
Reflection
Good News!
We’ve been getting ready for the joyful celebration of
Christmas for two weeks now. Do we remember what we’re joyful about? With all
the excitement of colorful decorations, gift shopping, and holiday planning, it
can be easy to forget.
Mom and Dad might be more stressed than usual.
Brothers, sisters, and friends might be busy making wish lists or planning for
their days off school. People in a hurry might not be as polite as they should.
What is it that we are supposed to be joyful about? This Sunday’s readings
remind us: “The blind regain their sight, the lame walk, the deaf hear, the
sick are healed.” Jesus is the fulfillment of God’s promise of the Savior. God
is with us! Emmanuel! This is the Good News we celebrate at Christmas.
Discussion questions
1.Where is John the Baptist?
2.What does John learn about Jesus?
3.What does Jesus tell the people about John the Baptist?
After
receiving Holy Communion,
you can say this prayer silently to yourself. If you
have not yet
received your First Communion, you can still say this prayer because of your desire to
receive Jesus.
Father, through Jesus, in
communion with the whole Church, I thank you for coming into my heart. May this
sacrament increase my faith, and strengthen me to follow you, even when it
seems difficult. Fill me with joy at your coming.
This week…
Share your joy
Create a moment of joy with your
family this week. Maybe bake a cake, ask to lead prayers before dinner; or tell
each family member why you love them. Surprises like these will bring joy to
everyone!
Share the Good News!
When we're happy, we want to tell
everyone. You can share the joy in your heart in many ways. For example, you
could make a happy sign to hang on your door. When people come to your door,
you can share with them the Good News of God's love.
Crossword Puzzle
Source: usccb.org
- Magnifikid - sermons4kids.com – rclblectionary.com –usccb.org/bible/readings-audio.cfm