FEB 16, 2025

6th Sunday of Year C

SOURCE: Catholic Resources by Rev. Felix Just, S.J.

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FEATURED12 STEPSFILM & TVJUSTICELIFE ISSUESFR. KEVIN

“Given the exhorbitant costs of Super Bowl advertising, the decision by “He Gets Us” to run commercials during the game − rather than donating the money to community programs or charities − has repeatedly drawn criticism.”

Tom Schad
USA TODAY

6th Sunday of Year C

“He Get’s Us”

MORE ABOUT GREATNESS

CHECK FOR UNDERSTANDING

GROUP DISCUSSION GUIDE ✨

Introduction:
1. Discuss the initial message of the sermon regarding young people's desire to be challenged and do something remarkable. How does this relate to the call of the Catholic priesthood?
2. What does the sermon mean by describing the priesthood as a supernatural call and countercultural?

Section 1: The Call to Priesthood
1. Reflect on the idea of priests as "alter Christus" or "other Christ." How does this concept shape the expectations and responsibilities of a priest?
2. How does the noise and distractions of modern culture impact the ability to hear the call to priesthood or religious life?

Section 2: Society and Culture
1. Explore the sermon’s perspective on the current societal issues young people face. How does the absence of God in life present challenges for vocations?
2. Discuss the importance of silence in nurturing a vocation. How does this compare to the experiences described in the sermon?

Section 3: Personal Journey
1. Analyze the personal story shared in the sermon about transitioning from careers in sports and acting to the priesthood. What insights does this provide about discerning one's vocation?
2. Consider the statement that the Catholic priesthood is an "instrument for the change that the world needs." How is this demonstrated in the sermon?

Section 4: Role Models and Mentors
1. How does the legacy of John Paul II serve as an inspiration for those called to the priesthood, according to the sermon?
2. Discuss the concept of "totus tuus Maria" and its significance for priests and their devotion.

Section 5: The Sacred Responsibilities
1. Reflect on the deep responsibility associated with administering sacraments and the sense of humility described by the speaker.
2. How does the role of a priest extend beyond religious rites, as described in the sermon? Consider the aspects of service and sacrifice.

Section 6: Life as a Priest
1. What does it mean for a priest to live a “sacrificial life”? How is this service portrayed in the day-to-day activities described in the sermon?
2. Discuss the emotional range and adaptability required of priests during various life events they are part of. How does this shape their ministry?

Conclusion:
1. What draws young people to consider the priesthood, based on the sermon? How does a priest exemplify being a "fisher of men"?
2. Discuss the notion that the priesthood is for "real men" and the implication of strength and sacrifice in this vocation. How does the sermon convey this message?

The Super Bowl commercial “Greatness” offers a profound reflection on the true meaning of greatness, which resonates remarkably with the teachings of Jesus in Luke 6:17-26, the Gospel for the 6th Sunday of Ordinary Time in Year C. Both the commercial and the Gospel passage challenge conventional notions of greatness, shifting the focus from personal achievement and recognition to the transformative power of love, humility, and service.

Preachers could begin the homily as follows:

Good morning! I bet many of you watched the Super Bowl last Sunday. Did you see the “Greatness” ad? What does true greatness look like? The commercial, featuring the haunting cover of “Personal Jesus” by Johnny Cash, answers this question by highlighting the power of compassion, generosity, and selflessness. The concept of greatness is redefined as serving others, lifting the broken, and living with purpose, which parallels the powerful message found in today’s Gospel passage—the Beatitudes. As we reflect on the striking similarities between the commercial and Jesus’ teachings, let us dive deeper into the Beatitudes and discover how they challenge conventional notions of greatness, inspiring us to live authentic, purposeful lives rooted in love, humility, and service.

In Luke 6:17-26, Jesus delivers the Beatitudes, proclaiming the blessedness of those who are poor, hungry, and persecuted. This radical redefinition of greatness emphasizes the spiritual rewards that come from living a life grounded in faith, humility, and compassion. Similarly, the commercial redefines greatness as the commitment to serve others, lift the broken, and live with purpose—qualities that echo the values embodied by Jesus in his ministry. As the ad unfolds with a series of moving and inspiring images—from strangers offering warm meals to those in need, to children helping their elderly neighbors—we are reminded that the greatest impact comes not from personal achievements or material wealth, but from lifting up those around us.

Jesus’ example of true greatness is characterized by love, humility, and sacrifice, even in the face of adversity. The commercial mirrors this understanding, highlighting that true strength comes from acts of selflessness and compassion, rather than the pursuit of power or status. Both the commercial and the Gospel challenge societal norms, encouraging individuals to embrace a more meaningful and authentic understanding of greatness.

Moreover, Jesus’ life and teachings continue to inspire people to live with purpose, serve others, and demonstrate compassion and forgiveness. The commercial similarly emphasizes the impact and inspiration of such a transformative understanding of greatness, as it has the potential to uplift others and effect positive change in the world.

While society often measures success by fame or power, the He Gets Us campaign encourages us to redefine greatness through the lens of Jesus’ teachings, emphasizing the transformative potential of everyday acts of kindness. By embracing compassion and humility in our daily lives, we can make a lasting difference in the world, one small act at a time.

RELATED VIDEOS

EWTN (1:27) – Pope Francis shares 8 Beatitudes for Bishops, giving a model for the 21st-century pastor. (November 25, 2021).

ADDICTION AND
RECOVERY

1—Admission of Powerlessness

2—Recognition of a Higher Power

3—Decision to Turn Life Over to a Higher Power

4—Taking a Moral Inventory

5—Admission of Wrongdoings

6—Willingness to Remove Character Defects

7—Asking for Spiritual Help

8—List of Amends

9—Compensation for Past Harms

10—Continuing Inventory and Admissions

11—Seeking Prayer and Meditation

12—Carry the Message Forward

6th Sunday of Year C

VIDEO: Journeying Through the Beatitudes with the 12 Steps

TRANSCRIPT OF VIDEO

The content below has been generated by THE WORD THIS WEEK Catholic Assistant, employing advanced AI technology.

Although Luke's Gospel and Jesus' Sermon on the plain offers a different perspective presenting "blessings and woes," Fr Sean reflects on the parallels between the 12 steps of recovery and the 8 beatitudes found in the Gospel of Matthew.

12 steps and the beatitudes

Hey everybody I'm father sean kilculley and uh today I'm making this video on the beatitudes and the 12 steps and because oftentimes people will come to me and and they'll be looking for some kind of a group and they really want a catholic group and and on the other hand. Like sometimes in the church there are people who can have a real bias against going to 12-step groups like alcoholics anonymous or sexaholics anonymous and um and I was praying over this on my retreat last year and and I was thinking about how you know you have to work the 12 steps in order. So people who have worked the 12 steps in a 12-step recovery group know that you have to do steps one two and three before you get into four through six and you can't do eight and nine until you've worked the other seven and and as I was praying over the beatitudes. I thought to myself like. I wonder. If you also have to do the beatitudes in order and and so I started to look at that and um and as I looked at it what I realized was that the 12 steps are really an intentional way of working the beatitudes right and of living out the beatitudes in our lives every single day and so rather than being something that's anti-christian. Because you know sometimes in 12-step groups they talk about higher power. They really are a process that's perfectly congruent with the fundamental movements of our heart and the fundamental movements of conversion within our hearts and and so the first beatitude is blessed or the poor in spirit. For theirs is the kingdom of heaven and so to be poor in spirit means that there's nothing that I can do on my own.

I need god for everything you know. I have no control over my life. Our lord needs to be the lord of my life or we could say. We admit that we're powerless over lust in our lives have become unmanageable. Right so blessed are the poor and spirit to be porn and spirit is to recognize that we are powerless and and when we really recognize that we're powerless and when we recognize that I can't get through this on my own initiative. I can't get through this on my own willpower. Then we really have to mourn and so blessed are they who mourn for they will be comforted because I have to grieve the fact that I can't do this on my own. If somebody has an addiction to pornography or an addiction to alcohol.

They have to grieve the fact that they have to go to these meetings every single week. They might have to grieve the fact that they have to go to a counselor. We have to grieve the loss of our addiction because for many of us our addiction has been our best friend for our entire life and and so we have to mourn right and then blessed are the meek for they will inherit the land so to be meek means. I'm going to humble myself and follow somebody. I'm going to recognize that. I don't have all the answers. I'm going to recognize that I need someone besides me to tell me how to live my life and in a great act of humility.

I'm going to follow them which corresponds to we came to believe that a power greater than ourselves could restore us to sanity and we made a decision to turn our will in our lives over to the care of god as we understood him in steps two and three and so once we've surrendered our life to god. Once we recognize. I can't do this on my own. I need our lord and I'm going to follow him. Then we're ready to look at our own lives and so the fourth beatitude blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness for they will be satisfied and so the hunger and thirst for righteousness means that I'm going to set my life right. I'm going to do an examination of my life. I'm going to start to live my life differently because I want to be completely converted and so in step four. I make a searching and fearless moral inventory of myself and I'm gonna list out all of my resentments. I'm gonna list out all of my fears. I'm gonna list out all of the sins that I've committed because I really wanna set my life right because I hunger and thirst for righteousness and then blessed are the merciful for they shall receive mercy and so in step five. I admit to god to myself and to another human being the exact nature of my wrongs in step six. I'm entirely ready to have god remove all of these defects of character and in step seven.

I humbly ask him to remove my shortcomings. I ask him to remove all of those defects of character and in that process I receive mercy. I receive mercy from the person that I admit all these things to I receive mercy from god and it is an act of mercy as he removes. Those defects of character then comes blessed are the pure of heart for they shall. See god right then comes blessed are the pure of heart for they shall. See god you know so often when we're struggling with purity. We're focused on that beatitude the sixth beatitude. Blessed are the pure of heart for they shall see god. But maybe what's lacking in our heart is that we're not poor in spirit or we haven't sufficiently mourned or we haven't taken a really honest look at our life we haven't let ourselves receive mercy and so we have to go through all of those things and so purity of heart comes after step 7 in the 12 steps. It comes after the first five beatitudes and experience shows that when people get to that stage in their recovery when they're working the steps that's really when they start to experience a true freedom. It's when they start to experience a true healing from the inside out.

Then blessed are the peacemakers for they shall be called children of god and so in steps 8 and 9 and make a list of all the people. I've harmed and become willing to make amends to them all and I make direct amends to such people wherever possible except when to do so would injure them or others and I become a peacemaker and so steps eight and nine. They're essential parts of our lives because becoming a peacemaker is an essential part of my life and that's what I do when. I've gone through a conversion process is. I start to go back and make peace with the people in my life who have harmed me make peace or amends to the people in my life that I've harmed and then.

I'm just sort of living in discipleship. So I continue to take a personal inventory and when I'm wrong. I promptly admit it seeking through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with god as we understand him praying only for the knowledge of his will for us and the power to take carry that out and having had a spiritual awakening. As a result of these steps. I try to carry this message to others and practice these principles and all of our affairs and and I really become an evangelizer of others and I start to carry this message forward and I want to tell everybody about it because I've experienced an inner transformation right and as I do so right as we live that kind of a life where we're carrying the message forward as we're living this kind of life where we're carrying the gospel forward because we're really talking about calling people from sin to a life of grace.

We're calling people from darkness to light. We're calling people from slavery to freedom. We do experience these things like being persecuted for the sake of righteousness and we might experience. This final beatitude blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me and so as we work through these 12 steps. We're actually working through the beatitudes and the beatitudes are a road map that our lord gave it gave to us. They were the first thing that he gave to us during the sermon on the mount which was really his definitive proclamation of the kingdom of god and so I hope that it's helpful to look at things within that framework and in the coming days. I hope to make separate videos for each of those beatitudes and give also some guidance for prayer and meditation over them as we work through recovery in our own lives.

GROUP DISCUSSION GUIDE

1. Understanding the Concept:
- How do the 12 Steps and the Beatitudes relate to each other according to Father Kilculley?
- Discuss any reservations or biases you may have about 12-step programs and how they can be addressed.

2. Beatitudes and Steps Parallels:
- Examine the first Beatitude, "Blessed are the poor in spirit," and its connection to admitting powerlessness in Step 1.
- Reflect on the importance of "mourning" in Beatitude 2 and how it aligns with acknowledging one’s vulnerabilities in recovery. Why is grieving an addiction necessary?

3. Humility and Meekness:
- Discuss the third Beatitude about meekness and its link to Steps 2 and 3. What role does humility play in recognizing the need for guidance from a higher power and others?

4. Desire for Change:
- Engage with Beatitude 4's call to "hunger and thirst for righteousness" and its equivalence to Step 4's moral inventory. How does this desire fuel transformation?

5. Receiving and Giving Mercy:
- Delve into Beatitude 5 regarding mercy, and how it corresponds with Steps 5 through 7. How does admitting wrongs and seeking forgiveness deepen one’s recovery?

6. Purity of Heart:
- Analyze why purity of heart follows the first seven steps and the earlier Beatitudes. What is the significance of achieving purity after addressing fundamental issues?

7. Making Peace:
- Relate Beatitude 7 about peacemaking to Steps 8 and 9. Discuss the importance of making amends and the impact of becoming a peacemaker.

8. Living Discipleship:
- Reflect on how ongoing discipleship is practiced through continued personal inventory and prayer in Steps 10 to 12. How does living these principles contribute to a spiritual awakening?

9. Bearing Witness Amidst Challenges:
- Connect the idea of persecution in the final Beatitude with the experiences of those following a path to recovery. How can embracing these challenges strengthen faith and recovery?

Application:

1. Personal Reflection:
- Encourage participants to reflect personally: Which Beatitude or Step do you resonate with most at this moment in your life? Why?

2. Shared Experiences:
- Share personal stories or times in your life when these teachings have been relevant. How has integrating these principles influenced your life or someone you know?

3. Action Plan:
- After discussing, what steps can you or the group take to incorporate these insights into daily life or community service?

Prayer and Meditation:

1. Guidance and Support:
- Include a closing prayer for strength, guidance, and support in applying these lessons to participants’ lives.

Further Study:

1. Future Exploration:
- Consider studying each Beatitude individually, using prayer and meditation as suggested in the sermon, for deeper personal growth and group engagement.

Scripture & Sobriety

Each Sunday THE WORD THIS WEEK offers insights relating the readings to the 12 Steps. The content has been generated by our Catholic Assistant, employing advanced AI technology. FEEL FREE to add your own comments at the bottom of the page to help make it better.

Step 1: Admitting Powerlessness and Unmanageability

In Jeremiah 17:5-8, the prophet uses the imagery of a tree to illustrate the importance of relying on God for strength and stability. Those who trust in the Lord are likened to a tree planted by the water, with deep roots that enable it to weather storms and bear fruit in due season. Conversely, those who trust in their own strength are likened to a shrub in the desert, which quickly withers away.
This passage serves as a powerful metaphor for Step 1, as individuals must acknowledge their own limitations and turn to a higher power for help. By recognizing that they cannot face their struggles alone, they open themselves up to the guidance and support of their higher power, just as the tree by the water thrives through its reliance on a stable and nourishing source.

Step 2: Believing in a Higher Power for Restoration

Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 15:12, 16-20 emphasize the transformative power of Christ’s resurrection, serving as a potent illustration of Step 2. In this passage, Paul reminds the Corinthians of the gospel he preached to them, which centers on the belief that Jesus rose from the dead, conquering death itself.
This belief in Christ’s resurrection is a source of hope and strength for Christians, much like the hope that individuals in recovery find in Step 2. By trusting in a higher power for restoration, those in recovery can draw upon the same faith that St. Paul espoused—a faith in the power of transformation, new beginnings, and the ultimate triumph over adversity.
As individuals embrace this belief, they gain the confidence and resolve needed to embark on their journey to recovery, trusting that their higher power will guide them through the challenges they face, just as Christ’s resurrection serves as a source of strength and hope for Christians.

Step 3: Making a Decision to Turn to a Higher Power

In Luke 6:17-26, Jesus delivers the Beatitudes, a series of teachings that outline the values and attitudes expected of his followers. These teachings emphasize the importance of humility, compassion, and reliance on God, offering a powerful framework for Step 3 in recovery.
As individuals embark on their journey to recovery, they must let go of their need for control and surrender their will to a higher power. This surrender is vividly illustrated in the Beatitudes, particularly in verses 20 and 21: “Blessed are you who are poor, for the kingdom of God is yours” and “Blessed are you who are now hungry, for you will be satisfied.”
These teachings underscore the transformative power of humility and reliance on God, echoing the core message of Step 3. By embracing these virtues, individuals in recovery acknowledge their dependence on their higher power and open themselves up to divine guidance and transformation.
Just as the Beatitudes offer a roadmap for a life of humility and service, Step 3 provides a foundation for recovery built on trust, faith, and the willingness to let go of control. By aligning their lives with these principles, individuals can find the strength and guidance needed to navigate the challenges of recovery and experience the blessings promised in the Beatitudes.

Step 4: Taking a Moral Inventory

Jeremiah 17:5-8 presents the vivid imagery of a tree planted by the water, drawing a parallel to the importance of self-reflection and growth in a person’s life. As the tree’s roots deepen and absorb nourishment, it flourishes and bears fruit—a powerful metaphor for the personal growth and transformation that occur when one commits to self-reflection and a moral inventory.
Step 4 in recovery requires individuals to take a deep, honest look at themselves and their past actions, acknowledging their flaws and the consequences of their choices. Just as the tree by the water thrives through its connection to a stable source of nourishment, individuals in recovery can find strength and growth through a thorough and honest self-assessment.
As they examine their past experiences and actions, individuals gain a clearer understanding of their true selves and the areas where growth is needed. This introspective process aligns with the image of the well-watered tree in Jeremiah 17:5-8, as both emphasize the importance of deep roots and nourishment for lasting growth.
Step 4 ultimately serves as a vital foundation for recovery, providing individuals with the self-awareness and clarity needed to move forward and embrace the transformative journey ahead. By engaging in this process, they demonstrate the same commitment to growth and self-reflection embodied by the thriving tree, laying the groundwork for a more balanced and fruitful life.

Step 5: Admitting Wrongdoings

In 1 Corinthians 15:12, 16-20, St. Paul emphasizes the transformative power of confessing one’s faith in the resurrection of Christ, highlighting the importance of acknowledging and sharing one’s beliefs. This message aligns with Step 5 in recovery, where individuals must openly admit their wrongdoings to God, themselves, and others.
This process of confession and repentance allows individuals to take ownership of their actions, acknowledging their past mistakes and committing to personal transformation. Just as St. Paul encouraged the Corinthians to proclaim their faith in Christ’s resurrection, individuals in recovery must admit their wrongdoings with honesty and humility.
Through this admission, individuals experience the cleansing power of confession, as they release feelings of guilt, shame, and denial that may have been weighing them down. In doing so, they open themselves up to the transformative grace of their higher power, mirroring the spiritual renewal that comes from embracing the truth of Christ’s resurrection.
Step 5 serves as a pivotal moment in one’s recovery journey, as it signifies a commitment to honesty, self-awareness, and growth. By confessing their wrongdoings, individuals demonstrate the same courage and faith that St. Paul extolled, fostering healing and transformation as they move forward on their path to recovery.

Step 6: Willingness to Remove Defects of Character

In Luke 6:17-26, Jesus presents the Beatitudes, highlighting the values and attitudes that his followers should embrace. Among these teachings is a call for humility, mercy, and a commitment to righteousness, which aligns with Step 6 in recovery—the willingness to remove character defects and cultivate new, positive traits.
As individuals progress in their recovery journey, they must identify and address the character defects that may have contributed to their struggles. In doing so, they commit to personal growth and transformation, reflecting the call for righteousness and virtue found in the Beatitudes.
In Luke 6:22-23, Jesus declares, “Blessed are you when people hate you… Rejoice in that day and leap for joy, because great is your reward in heaven.” This teaching emphasizes the spiritual benefits of living a virtuous life, even in the face of adversity.
Similarly, Step 6 encourages individuals to persevere through the challenges of personal growth, as they strive to replace their character defects with positive attributes, such as compassion, humility, and self-control. This dedication to personal transformation mirrors the values extolled in the Beatitudes and the promise of spiritual fulfillment that accompanies them.
By embracing the principles of Step 6, individuals commit to a life of continuous growth and improvement, fostering the same virtues and values that Jesus imparted to his followers. As they work to remove their character defects and cultivate new strengths, they embody the transformative spirit of the Beatitudes and move closer to lasting recovery.

Step 7: Asking for Spiritual Help

In 1 Corinthians 15:12, 16-20, St. Paul emphasizes the transformative power of Christ’s resurrection and its profound impact on the lives of believers. This message resonates with Step 7 in recovery, where individuals seek the help of a higher power to overcome their shortcomings and embrace personal transformation.
As individuals engage in Step 7, they humbly acknowledge their limitations and ask their higher power for guidance and strength. This act of surrender and faith reflects the central message of 1 Corinthians 15, which highlights the profound spiritual renewal that accompanies belief in Christ’s resurrection.
Paul writes, “If Christ has not been raised, your faith is futile; you are still in your sins” (1 Corinthians 15:17). This passage underscores the importance of trusting in a higher power and relying on divine grace for transformation.
In the same way, Step 7 encourages individuals to place their trust in a higher power, acknowledging that true and lasting change comes from submitting to God’s will and accepting His guidance. By seeking their higher power’s help in overcoming their shortcomings, individuals demonstrate a deep faith that mirrors the conviction expressed by St. Paul.
As they commit to transformation through the help of their higher power, individuals in recovery experience the same spiritual renewal and hope that come from belief in Christ’s resurrection. Step 7 serves as a testament to the power of faith and surrender, fostering personal growth and healing as individuals progress on their recovery journey.

Step 8: Making a List of People Harmed

In Luke 6:17-26, Jesus delivers the Beatitudes, which include powerful messages about love, forgiveness, and compassion. These teachings connect with Step 8 in recovery, where individuals create a list of those they have harmed, demonstrating a commitment to repairing relationships and seeking reconciliation.
In Luke 6:27-28, Jesus says, “Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you.” This call for radical love and forgiveness applies directly to Step 8, as individuals strive to make amends and extend compassion to those they have wronged.
By creating a list of those they have harmed, individuals in recovery demonstrate a willingness to take responsibility for their actions and seek restoration in their relationships. This process aligns with Jesus’ teachings on love and forgiveness, as found in the Beatitudes, and emphasizes the importance of humility and empathy in the healing process.
As individuals work through Step 8, they embody the values that Jesus imparted to his followers—values that challenge conventional wisdom and call for a deeper, more transformative love. By seeking reconciliation with those they have harmed, individuals in recovery practice the radical forgiveness and compassion that Jesus modeled, fostering healing and growth in their relationships and their own lives.

Step 9: Offering Amends

Jeremiah 17:5-8 emphasizes the importance of turning away from sin and embracing righteousness, using the metaphor of a well-watered tree that flourishes and bears fruit. This imagery connects to Step 9 in recovery, where individuals seek forgiveness from those they have harmed and make amends for past wrongdoings.
Just as the tree planted by the water symbolizes growth and renewal, Step 9 allows individuals to embark on a journey of transformation and healing in their relationships. By acknowledging their mistakes and seeking reconciliation, individuals demonstrate a commitment to personal growth and a desire to repair the harm they have caused.
Jeremiah’s call for righteousness serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of turning away from past mistakes and embracing new, positive behaviors. In the same way, Step 9 encourages individuals to make a sincere effort to change their ways and foster healthier relationships with those they have hurt.
By actively working to make amends and seek forgiveness, individuals in recovery embody the transformative spirit of Jeremiah’s message. They demonstrate a willingness to learn from their past mistakes, grow in their relationships, and embrace a new way of life rooted in humility, empathy, and love.

Step 10: Continuing Moral Inventory and Admitting Mistakes

In 1 Corinthians 15:12, 16-20, St. Paul emphasizes the transformative power of Christ’s resurrection and its impact on the lives of believers. This message resonates with Step 10 in recovery, which involves a commitment to continuous personal growth and spiritual development through self-reflection and prayer.
Paul writes, “But by the grace of God I am what I am, and his grace to me was not without effect” (1 Corinthians 15:10). This passage underscores the importance of divine grace in the process of transformation, which aligns with Step 10’s focus on spiritual growth and reliance on a higher power.
As individuals continue their journey of recovery, they commit to ongoing self-reflection and prayer, nurturing their connection with their higher power and seeking guidance for personal growth. This dedication to spiritual development mirrors the transformation that St. Paul attributes to belief in Christ’s resurrection.
In embracing Step 10, individuals acknowledge that personal growth is a lifelong process and that true transformation requires a deepened relationship with their higher power. By prioritizing self-reflection and prayer, they cultivate the spiritual fruits of humility, empathy, and love, embodying the message of hope and renewal found in 1 Corinthians 15.ss in their recovery journey.

Step 11: Seeking Connection with a Higher Power through Prayer and Meditation

The Beatitudes, as presented in Luke 6:17-26, emphasize the value of humility, compassion, and reliance on God. These teachings connect with Step 11 in recovery, which involves deepening one’s relationship with their higher power through prayer and meditation.
In Luke 6:21, Jesus says, “Blessed are you who weep now, for you will laugh.” This passage highlights the importance of acknowledging one’s vulnerabilities and seeking solace in God, which aligns with Step 11’s focus on spiritual connection and growth.
As individuals progress in their recovery journey, they commit to nurturing their relationship with their higher power through consistent prayer and meditation. This practice allows them to access the spiritual strength and guidance necessary for personal transformation, echoing the Beatitudes’ emphasis on humility and reliance on God.
By engaging in Step 11, individuals embrace the transformative power of a deepened connection with their higher power. They demonstrate a commitment to spiritual growth and healing, reflecting the values and teachings presented in the Beatitudes and fostering a life rooted in love, compassion, and hope.

Step 12: Carrying This Message to Others and Practicing These Principles

Jeremiah 17:5-8 emphasizes the importance of turning away from sin, embracing righteousness, and bearing fruit as a result of one’s trust in God. This message connects with Step 12 in recovery, which involves sharing the hope of recovery with others and helping them on their own journeys.
The passage compares those who trust in God to a well-watered tree that flourishes and bears fruit, providing a powerful metaphor for the transformative impact of sharing hope and serving others. As individuals in recovery reach out to help those in need, they exemplify the values of compassion, empathy, and love found in Jeremiah’s message.
Step 12 encourages individuals to pay forward the hope and support they received during their recovery journey, recognizing that their experiences can inspire and guide others. This dedication to service aligns with Jeremiah’s emphasis on bearing fruit as a result of one’s connection to God.
By embracing Step 12, individuals in recovery demonstrate their commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of others, embodying the spirit of love and transformation found in Jeremiah 17:5-8. As they share their stories and offer support, they serve as living examples of the power of hope and faith in the journey toward healing and growth.

Bishop Robert Barron

This is a clip from the CATHOLICISM Series by Bishop Robert Barron, Disk no. 2: “Happy are We – The Teachings of Jesus”

6th Sunday of Year C

TV Series vs. Scripture

THE CHOSEN (2:21) – Season 2 Finale

Similarities:

Both “The Chosen” finale and the Gospel accounts of Matthew and Luke present the Beatitudes as a key teaching of Jesus.
They emphasize the importance of humility, mercy, and peacemaking in the life of a disciple.
The Beatitudes are presented as a countercultural message, challenging conventional notions of success and greatness.

Differences:

The Beatitudes in Luke’s Gospel include both blessings and woes, while “The Chosen” finale focuses on the blessings, as in Matthew’s account.
“The Chosen” finale personalizes the Beatitudes by having Jesus address some of them directly to his disciples, while in the Gospels, they are announced in the third person.
In the show, Jesus collaborates with Matthew to compose the Beatitudes, while the Gospels do not depict such a direct involvement of the disciples in their formulation.
The finale focuses on the transformative power of the Beatitudes in the lives of the disciples, while the Gospel accounts emphasize their universal relevance for all followers of Jesus.

The Beatitudes: A Comparative Analysis

The Beatitudes, as presented in both Matthew’s and Luke’s Gospels, offer a transformative vision of what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ. They challenge the conventional understanding of success and greatness, emphasizing the importance of humility, mercy, and peacemaking in the life of a disciple. In the finale of the second season of the series “The Chosen,” this vision is brought to life through a unique portrayal of the Beatitudes, both echoing and diverging from the Gospel accounts in significant ways.

In both “The Chosen” and the Gospels, the Beatitudes are presented as central to Jesus’ teachings. The series underscores their significance by having Jesus collaborate with Matthew in composing them, highlighting the importance of the disciples’ role in transmitting these teachings to future generations. This approach adds a personal dimension to the Beatitudes, making them more relatable to the audience.

Furthermore, “The Chosen” finale emphasizes the transformative power of the Beatitudes in the lives of the disciples. As Jesus speaks each beatitude, he addresses some of them directly to his followers, inviting them to embrace these countercultural values in their own lives. This personal approach differs from the Gospel accounts, where the Beatitudes are announced in the third person, emphasizing their universal relevance for all followers of Jesus.

One notable difference between the series and the Gospels is the focus on the blessings in the former, echoing Matthew’s account. Luke’s Gospel, however, presents the Beatitudes in a more balanced way, including both blessings and woes. This broader perspective serves as a reminder of the challenges and responsibilities that come with following Christ, encouraging readers to examine their own lives in light of these teachings.

Additionally, the series depicts the disciples’ active involvement in the formulation of the Beatitudes, which adds an element of human collaboration and emphasizes the importance of their role in preserving and sharing Jesus’ teachings. This stands in contrast to the Gospels, which present the Beatitudes as divinely inspired words spoken directly by Jesus.

In conclusion, while “The Chosen” finale and the Gospel accounts of the Beatitudes share a common focus on the centrality of these teachings in the life of a disciple, they differ in their presentation and emphasis. The series offers a more personalized and relatable portrayal of the Beatitudes, inviting viewers to see themselves in the disciples and embrace the transformative power of these teachings in their own lives. The Gospels, on the other hand, emphasize the universal relevance of the Beatitudes, challenging readers to examine their lives in light of these timeless teachings and embrace a life of humility, mercy, and peacemaking. Together, these diverse depictions of the Beatitudes offer a rich and nuanced understanding of what it means to be a follower of Jesus Christ.

6th Sunday of Year C

The Advantage of
the Poor

GROUP DISCUSSION GUIDE ✨

EXCERPT: Jesus used the word blest when speaking of the poor, and he used the word woe when speaking of the rich. Obviously he saw some kind advantage to being poor, and some kind of disadvantage to being rich.

What truth was he expressing? That poverty keeps one open to one’s need for God? That riches turn one’s heart away from God? That happiness is found closer to poverty than to wealth?

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SOURCE: Sunday Website

The Beatitudes are
a Portrait of Jesus on the Cross

SOURCE: Bishop Robert Barron

6th Sunday of Year C

The Reversal Theme

GROUP DISCUSSION GUIDE ✨

This discussion guide has been generated by the WORD THIS WEEK'S Catholic AI Assistant based on Father Jude Siciliano's homily notes.

Introduction:
Begin with an overview of the sermon, which focuses on the importance of trusting God through life's challenges, using the teachings of Jeremiah and the Gospel of Luke as foundational texts.

Key Themes:

1. Trust in God vs. Trust in Human Powers:
- Discuss Jeremiah’s imagery of those who turn away from God as being like a barren bush in the desert, compared to those who trust in God as trees planted by water.
- Reflect on the consequences of trusting in what is fleeting versus having faith in God.

2. Commitment and Devotion:
- Explore the idea that trusting God requires more than belief; it involves a deep commitment to living according to God’s ways.
- Share personal stories or biblical examples of enduring faith in difficult times.

3. Jeremiah’s Context and Experience:
- Consider Jeremiah's experiences of hardship and how they inform his teachings.
- Discuss how Jeremiah's prophetic voice provides guidance on where to seek strength during life's challenges.

4. Guidance from the Psalm:
- Compare the psalm's imagery of a tree planted near running water to Jeremiah's tree metaphor.
- Encourage reflection on personal experiences of making choices aligned with God's ways.

5. The Beatitudes in Luke’s Gospel:
- Discuss the "reversal theme" in Luke, where the poor, hungry, and persecuted are called "blessed."
- Reflect on the contrast between worldly measures of blessing and Jesus' teachings.

Discussion Questions:

1. When have you trusted in your own abilities instead of relying on God? What were the outcomes?
2. Reflect on a time when you faced a difficult challenge. How did your faith influence your response?
3. How does Jeremiah’s imagery of the barren bush and fruitful tree resonate with your own life choices?
4. In what ways can we embody trust and devotion to God in our daily lives?
5. How can we actively live out the Beatitudes today, especially in serving those whom Jesus describes as "blessed"?
6. What practical steps can we take to challenge societal norms that equate wealth and comfort with blessings?

Application:

- Encourage group members to make a daily practice of recognizing and choosing God's ways over worldly temptations.
- Discuss how the group can support each other in making faith-based decisions.
- Identify opportunities to serve the poor and marginalized, aligning with the message of the Gospel.

Closing Reflection:

Invite participants to reflect on where they find themselves in the balance of relying on human strengths versus trusting God. Encourage them to consider how the insights gained from the sermon can be applied in their lives moving forward.

EXCERPT: Jesus declares, “Blessed are the poor, hungry, weeping, and persecuted.” These are not the people we typically consider “blessed.” In our world, those with health, wealth, and security are often seen as blessed. Many attribute their comfort and success to God, saying, “God has blessed me with [fill in the blank].”

But Jesus offers a radically different perspective. In Luke’s Gospel, those who are poor, hungry, weeping, and persecuted are the “blessed.” This “reversal theme” runs throughout Luke’s Gospel. It is proclaimed in Mary’s Magnificat (Luke 1:46-55) and reiterated here: the poor will inherit the kingdom, the hungry will be filled, and those who weep will laugh.

Did Luke expect these conditions to change quickly? Likely not. Instead, his Beatitudes challenge the divisions between those the world deems “blessed” and those Jesus calls “blessed.” Jesus’ ministry, as presented in Luke, seeks to alleviate the suffering of those who turn to him, and he calls his disciples to do the same. As Jesus says in Acts 1:8, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, throughout Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” Jesus’ message is clear: disciples must persevere until the end, when all evil will be defeated.

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SOURCE: First Impressions