Family Prayer
July 6, 2008, 14th Sunday in Ordinary Time
“My yoke is easy . . . my burden is light.” (Matthew 11:30)
READINGS:1. Zechariah 9:9-10
2. Romans 8:9, 11-13
3. Matthew 11:25-30
REFLECTION: In the readings today Paul says, “It is the things of the flesh that make you tired out. You spend all your energy looking to be satisfied by material things and you end up bone weary. Try looking to the things of the Spirit, and you will live. You will not be tired anymore because the things of the Spirit refresh.”
PRAYER: Loving Father, we thank you for the marvelous gifts of your creation, especially for our bodies. Help us to respect them and to treat them rightly. We ask this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
FAMILY DISCUSSION/ACTIVITY:
Monday:
Name some “things of the flesh” that make us tired.
Tuesday:
Name some “things of the Spirit” that your family does which make them refreshed.
Wednesday:
Pray the Luminous Mysteries of the Rosary for all those struggling with burdens.
Thursday:
Do something today with your family to lessen the burdens of the poor.
Friday:
Do something today for yourself that will relax your body and mind.
Saturday:
Pray today for the families who hold the burden of sons or daughters who serve in troubled parts of the world.
PRAYER: Lord, you are always ready to refresh us. Make our hearts wise so that we will know where to look for real joy and contentment. We pray in Jesus’ Name. Amen.