Questions for Reflection or Group Discussion
(Leviticus 19:1-2,17-18; Psalm 103:1-4,8,10,12-13; 1 Corinthians 3:16-23; Matthew 5:38-48)
- In the first reading from Leviticus 19, the Lord commands us to: “Be holy, for I, the LORD your God, am holy.” He then provides some commands on how to be holy including: “You shall not bear hatred for your brother or sister in your heart” and “You shall love your enemy as yourself.” How are you doing in living up to these commands? What steps can you take to do better?
- In the Responsorial Psalm, we hear these words regarding the Lords forgiveness and mercy: “He pardons all your iniquities, heals all your ills” and “He redeems your life from destruction, crowns you with kindness and compassion.” In what ways have you experienced the Lord’s forgiveness and mercy? How has it impacted your own ability to forgive others as the Lord has forgiven you?
- In the second reading, St. Paul tells us that we are “the temple of God” and “the Spirit of God dwells in you.” He goes on to say that “the temple of God, which you are, is holy.” What role does the Holy Spirit, the love of God poured into our hearts (Romans 5:5), play in how you love and forgive others?
- The Gospel reading presents us with these daunting commands: “love your enemy” and “be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect.” Why is it necessary to personally know and experience the Lord’s love and forgiveness, in order to forgive those who have wronged you?
- Take some time to pray that you would experience more deeply your heavenly Father’s transforming love, mercy, and grace.
