Readings and Themes for the Week of February 21, 2010

Readings for Faith Sharing
Week of February 21, 2010,
The First Sunday of Lent

Reading I Deuteronomy 26:4-10

The Lenten fast, like the Exodus, leads to a land flowing with milk and honey.

Psalm 91

"Be with me, Lord, when I am in trouble."

Reading II Romans 10:8-13

The journey of faith is open to all.

Gospel: Luke 4:1-13

The fast can be a sign that we live on more than bread.

THEME:

Lent is time to open our hearts more fully to Jesus.

Real conversion begins when we recall the deeds God has accomplished throughout salvation history, as well as in the histories of our own faith journeys. Today’s sacred word summons us to remembrance and strengthens us in our own deserts of temptation. As the word is proclaimed, we humbly ask for this strength and, echoing the words of the psalmist, ask the Lord to be with us in times of trouble.

Questions of the week

Question for Children:

When you feel tempted to do wrong, how do you remain strong in your faith?

Question for Youth:

What is one thing you will do during Lent to become more open to God in your life?

Question for Adults:

As you come to understand the temptation of Jesus in the desert, which one of the devil’s offerings is hardest for you to resist?