Resources for homeschool teens which include outlines for the Sunday readings, multiple choice questions, teen friendly homilies.
In partnership with the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal
Multiple Choice Questions
Teen-Friendly Homilies &
Group Discussions
Each week, THE WORD THIS WEEK will be using AI generative technology
to transform homilies from the following preachers
into fun and easy-to-understand messages for young teens.
“I am the Alpha and the Omega, ” says the Lord God, “the one who is and who was and who is to come, the almighty.”
2ND READING
Jesus’ Identity and Mission
Q: Why did Jesus call himself the “Son of Man”?
A: Jesus chose this title to claim he was the truly human one on a mission to confront the beast, representing humanity’s capacity for both good and evil.
Q: How did Jesus overcome the “beast”?
A: Jesus overcame the beast by allowing it to do its worst on the cross, exposing the subhuman nature of evil, and then triumphing with divine life and love.
Biblical Context and Symbolism
Q: What is the origin of the “Son of Man” phrase in the Bible?
A: The phrase comes from the Old Testament book of Daniel, where it appears in a prophetic dream about violent, prideful kings and their empires, symbolizing humans behaving like animals.
Jesus’ Paradoxical Approach
Q: How does Jesus’ approach to ruling differ from traditional power structures?
A: Jesus demonstrated a paradoxical way of ruling by dying to rule the beast, emphasizing service, humility, and self-giving love over traditional power dynamics.
New Humanity and Discipleship
Q: What is Jesus’ vision for his followers?
A: Jesus is summoning a new humanity that can overcome the beast in the same paradoxical way, discovering that his life and power can become their own.
Q: How does Jesus envision his followers ruling the world?
A: Jesus envisions his followers ruling as God’s partners through the power of service, humility, and self-giving love, rather than through traditional forms of dominance.
Enhancing Classroom and Homeschool Discussion through Diverse Perspectives and Creative Insights
Grades 7-12
Putting A.I. To the Test
NEWSWEEK (NOVEMBER 15, 2024) — Trump’s First 100 Days To Be Most ‘Aggressive’ Since FDR: Steve Bannon
Reflections on Christ’s
Eternal Kingdom and Temporal Leadership
34th Sunday of Year B
The readings for this Sunday’s Mass, Dn 7:13-14, Rv 1:5-8, and Jn 18:33b-37, invite us to reflect on the theme of Christ’s eternal kingship and its implications for our lives. The readings speak of Christ’s divine authority, his everlasting dominion, and his role as the embodiment of truth. In light of the recent news of President Trump’s second term and the upcoming inauguration, it is crucial to consider how the gospel message relates to our political context.
In Daniel 7:13-14, we encounter the vision of the Son of Man, who receives dominion, glory, and kingship from the Ancient of Days. This eternal and universal authority contrasts with the limited power and temporary nature of earthly political leaders. As we witness the transition of political power in our country, we are reminded that Christ’s kingdom endures beyond the shifting landscapes of human governance.
Revelation 1:5-8 further emphasizes Christ’s eternal nature as the Alpha and Omega, the one who was, is, and is to come. This passage calls us to put our trust in the enduring love and wisdom of Christ, rather than placing our faith in the promises of temporal leaders. The political arena often demands allegiance and trust, but as Christians, our ultimate allegiance lies with Christ, whose dominion extends beyond the confines of earthly nations and politics.
John 18:33b-37 brings us to the trial of Jesus before Pilate, where he is asked if he is the King of the Jews. Jesus responds by explaining that his kingdom is not of this world, pointing to the spiritual nature of his authority and purpose. In a time of political discourse and change, we must remember that Christ’s teachings transcend political affiliations and agendas. Christ’s mission is to give testimony to the truth and call us to live by that truth, no matter our political context.
It is crucial to draw a distinction between Christ’s eternal kingdom and the political landscape. While both involve leadership and authority, the nature and scope of that power differ significantly. Political leaders, such as President Trump, may make promises of aggressive action and radical change, but their power is limited by time and circumstance. On the other hand, Christ’s kingdom, as presented in the gospel readings, extends beyond human constraints, inviting us to trust in his everlasting love and truth.
In conclusion, the Sunday Mass readings invite us to consider Christ’s eternal kingship in light of our current political context. While President Trump’s second term promises aggressive action and significant change, we must remember that our faith and trust lie in Christ, whose dominion is everlasting and whose love transcends political boundaries. By reflecting on the gospel message and its implications, we are called to live as faithful citizens of Christ’s kingdom, seeking truth and justice in all aspects of our lives.
The Sunday Mass readings focus on Christ’s eternal and spiritual kingship, while the news story discusses President Trump’s temporal and political power. These distinct realms remind us to keep our faith in Christ’s divine authority while engaging in our civic responsibilities as citizens of a nation led by elected officials.