Gospel
Luke 6:12-16
Jesus went up to the mountain to pray, and he spent the night in prayer to God. When day came, he called his disciples to himself, and from them he chose Twelve, whom he also named Apostles: Simon, whom he named Peter, and his brother Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James the son of Alphaeus, Simon who was called a Zealot, and Judas the son of James, and Judas Iscariot, who became a traitor.
Sermon
My brothers and sisters in Christ, Jesus' prayerful selection of the Twelve Apostles highlights God's sovereignty and our purpose.
Key Principles:
1. Prayerful Preparation (v. 12)
- Jesus seeks God's guidance
- Importance of prayer in decision-making
1. Chosen for a Purpose (vv. 13-16)
- Jesus selects the Twelve Apostles
- Diversity of backgrounds and personalities
1. Named and Empowered (v. 13)
- Jesus gives them a new identity
- Authority and responsibility
Implications for Us:
- Seek God's guidance in decisions
- Recognize our divine purpose
- Embrace diversity in community
- Understand our spiritual identity
Conclusion:
We are chosen for a purpose.
Reflection Questions:
1. How do you seek God's guidance?
2. What is your divine purpose?
3. How do you value diversity in community?
Action Steps:
- Study biblical teachings on prayer (Matthew 26:39, Luke 11:1-13)
- Evaluate decisions seeking God's guidance
- Engage in community service
- Seek guidance on spiritual identity
Additional Resources:
- Explore Jesus' teachings on discipleship (Matthew 10:1-4, Mark 3:13-19)
- Reflect on biblical examples of divine purpose (Jeremiah 1:5, Romans 8:28-30)
Key Verses:
"He spent the night in prayer to God." (Luke 6:12)
"You did not choose me, but I chose you." (John 15:16)
Prayer
Let us pray: + In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Almighty, merciful, and loving God, we thank You for choosing us for a purpose. Help us to seek Your guidance in all decisions. Reveal our divine purpose and empower us to fulfill it. Grant us wisdom to value diversity in community. Help us understand our spiritual identity. May our lives reflect Your sovereignty.
In Jesus' most holy name, Amen.
Additional Prayers:
Prayer of Spiritual Guidance
Dear Heavenly Father,
Guide me on my spiritual journey. Illuminate Your path for me. Grant me wisdom to discern Your will. Direct my steps according to Your purpose. Help me to trust Your sovereignty.
In Jesus' most holy name, Amen.
Prayer for Divine Purpose
Dear Heavenly Father,
Reveal Your divine purpose for my life. Help me to understand Your plan. Grant me clarity to see Your will. Empower me to fulfill my purpose. Use me for Your glory.
In Jesus' most holy name, Amen.
Additional prayer points:
- Pray for guidance in decision-making
- Ask for revelation of divine purpose
- Seek empowerment for spiritual responsibilities
- Request wisdom to embrace diversity
- Reflect on biblical examples of divine purpose
Action Steps:
- Study biblical teachings on prayer and guidance
- Evaluate decisions seeking God's will
- Engage in community service
- Seek guidance on spiritual identity
May these prayers guide you in seeking God's guidance.
Reflection:
- Identify areas for seeking God's guidance
- Recognize divine purpose
- Pray for someone struggling with spiritual identity
Key Bible Verses:
"He spent the night in prayer to God." (Luke 6:12)
"You did not choose me, but I chose you." (John 15:16)
Some possible personal reflections:
1. How do I seek God's guidance?
2. What is my divine purpose?
3. How do I value diversity in community?
4. What is my spiritual identity?
5. How can I fulfill my purpose?
May these prayers deepen your relationship with God.
+ In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.
Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you,
Rev. Fr. Jhimerson Maneclang,SCJ