Choose Christ
Third Sunday in Ordinary Time (B)
Read this Gospel passage aloud to the family
Mark 1:14-20- After John had been arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the gospel of God: “This is the time of fulfillment. The kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the gospel.”
As he passed by the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting their nets into the sea; they were fishermen. Jesus said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Then they left their nets and followed him. He walked along a little farther and saw James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John. They too were in a boat mending their nets. Then he called them. So they left their father Zebedee in the boat along with the hired men and followed him.
(Parent) Reread this part a few times aloud
“Then they left their nets and followed Him.”
(Parent) Read this meditation aloud to the family
Jesus calls Andrew and Simon (Peter), and James and John, to join Him in His mission. This is what He does for all of us: He calls us to play a part in His own mission. This is why we must constantly listen and pray daily so that we will be able to follow His direction. One particular way to learn about Christ’s direction is to read His life in the Scriptures.
In the Scriptures, when Jesus calls someone to Himself, each person He calls has a similar challenge. All of them must make a decision to leave things behind. The disciples all choose to do this. The rich young man does not. Christ is calling us, and we have a choice to make. Will we leave behind whatever keeps us from following Christ?
“Attachments” are things (even good things) that we aren’t willing to part with: money, material possessions, social status, friendship, comfort…They keep us from following Christ with all our hearts. What attachments do we have that we are unwilling to give up? Choose these or choose Christ.
As a family, pray a portion of the Rosary together (very short if children are young) reflecting on the Scripture passage above.(Optional: allow a brief time for discussion or questions from children concerning their thoughts and prayer.)
Reminder for Parents: Pier is just meant to be a jumping off point. The real goal is that you pray & eventually use the fruits of your personal prayer as the content of your family’s prayer. Duc in altum.
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