Sunday Reading Connections and Life-Application
Sunday Reading Connections and Life-Application
Sunday Reading Connections and Life-Application
Theology of the Body
Life Recovery Notes
Preaching on Abortion
Apply,
Learn &
Live
32nd Sunday of Year A
SCROLL TO VIEW MORE
Theology
of the
Body
32nd Sunday of Year A
Matthew 25:1-13 The unwise have no oil for their lamps. Papal preacher Raniero Cantalamessa observes that if the desires of the heart connected with eros are “systematically denied or repressed” in the name of celibacy, “the result will be double: either one goes on in a tired way, out of a sense of duty, to defend one’s image, or more or less licit compensations are sought, to the point of the very painful cases that are afflicting the Church.” The wise virgins, on the other hand, have a full supply of oil and their lamps (their hearts) are set on fire. They do not repress eros. Rather, they allow their eros to become what it truly is: a pure, burning, wild, aching longing for God.
Christopher West
Life Recovery Bible NLT
32nd Sunday of Year A
NO NOTES ARE
AVAILABLE FOR THIS
READING
1 Thessalonians 4:13-18 Apparently the Thessalonian believers were afraid that believers who died before Jesus returned would lose the opportunity of sharing in Christ’s glorious reign. Paul explained that dead Christians would be raised and share in the fellowship and reign of Jesus in God’s Kingdom.
We all have this hope in our future as well. All believers can be sure that they will have a special part to play when Christ returns. It doesn’t matter whether we are dead or alive; God’s plan includes us.
Stephen Arterburn, David Stoop
Matthew 25:1-13 The story of the ten bridesmaids reinforces the need for wise preparation and readiness for Christ’s coming. Those who have not readied themselves for the return of Jesus, the heavenly bridegroom-by faith, commitment, and responsible living- will be left behind.
For those of us who have suffered from a dysfunctional background, recovery is a very important part of that preparation.
Stephen Arterburn, David Stoop
Scriptures
and Art
32nd Sunday of Year A
Videos related to this Sunday’s scripture ratings.
Jesus told of this parable in an effort to encourage his followers to always be prepared for His return. The 5 wise virgins brought extra oil for their lamps, but the foolish ones did not. The ones without lit lamps were not allowed into the wedding when the bridegroom (who represents Jesus) came. The oil represents the Holy Spirit.
William Blake’s ‘The Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins’ was drawn circa 1799. The drawing epitomises Blake’s fondness for classical sculptural form, as well as the intense fear of God that resonates throughout his entire catalogue. Blake took scripture very seriously and his work frequently invokes the dignity of sainthood and the possibilities of God’s retribution. The ‘Parable of the Wise and Foolish Virgins’ reminds us that we need to prepared for Christ’s return.
Prepare yourselves for the coming of the groom! This sand art video tells the parable of the 10 virgins with stunning visuals that will leave you in awe. Watch as the sand comes to life and depicts the wise and foolish virgins waiting for the arrival of the groom. Let us all be wise and prepare ourselves with the oil of faith, trust, patience, and hope for the coming of the groom.
SCROLL TO VIEW MORE
Preaching on Abortion
32nd Sunday of Year A
Catholic
Climate
Covenant
32nd Sunday of Year A
Catechism
Themes
32nd Sunday of Year A
Justice
and
Conflict
32nd Sunday of Year A
32nd Sunday of Year A
Be Watchful Be Ready
When will we finally understand what we need to know in order to live together as brothers and sisters?
When will we get the wisdom to place the one true God ahead of our petty gods of power, possessions, and pleasure? When will we be inspired with the wisdom to overcome our social ills? We do not know when, and so we must be watchful and ready, otherwise the moment will pass us by.
Justice
and
Conflict
32nd Sunday of Year A
32nd Sunday of Year A
Conflict is part of every day. There are some conflicts that need to be reduced. Other conflicts are part of the human condition.
What does not help is ignoring conflicts – whether they are conflicts to be solved, or conflicts to be learnt from.
The gospel texts are replete with dynamics of conflict: occupation; internal conflict between people about whether one should or shouldn’t work for an occupying force; conflict about the inclusion of others; conflict about the role of leadership and the role of popular voices.
The Pitfalls of Preparations and Expectations
SUMMARY: Matthew’s emphasis on final judgement and the Kingdom of God is explored through the parable of the wise and foolish bridesmaids. The importance of presence over perfection, the need for careful decision-making, and proactive preparation in conflict situations are highlighted.
This parable provides wisdom about dealing with unexpected difficulties and conflicts. Instead of rushing to fix problems like the foolish bridesmaids did, it may be more beneficial to remain present even if everything is not perfect. However, it also emphasizes that there isn’t always one correct course of action – sometimes regrouping or changing plans may be necessary. The key point is that individuals should actively decide their course of action rather than being driven by circumstances.