INTRODUCTORY REFLECTION
No single metaphor sums up the demands of discipleship, but a fruitful one implied in today’s text from Hebrews is that of the marathon. It’s a test of endurance, concentration and conviction, all the qualities Jesus exhibited on his way from Nazareth to Golgotha and glory.
We might imagine him as our pace-maker, always ahead, always calling for more from us. Only by discarding ‘everything that hinders us’ can we keep close to him. Only by keeping him in sight can our hope of completing the race be realised.
We draw inspiration from the countless others – that great cloud of witnesses – who have completed the race before us. Their one counsel for us might well be, never take your eyes off Jesus.
THE WEEK’S PRAYER FOCUS
For all whose discipleship of Jesus has put them at odds with family and friends, that they will hold fast to what is true and not lose the hope of peace.
SAMPLE INTERCESSIONS
These intercessions are offered for selected use at Sunday Mass in the parish alongside those that express local needs and concerns.
PRESIDER
Dear friends, Jesus makes the cost of discipleship plain to his followers. Choosing his way above all else, let us pray for the whole human family.
READER
We give thanks for all whose gospel witness inspires our faith, and pray that like Jesus we too may cast the fire of love across the face of the earth. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for Pope Francis, that age, poor health and opposition will not diminish his unswerving commitment to proclaim the joy of the Gospel. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for climate justice, that the cries of nations at greatest risk from global warming will be heeded by those most responsible for their plight. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We give thanks for all who care lovingly for their fellow human beings, and pray that World Humanitarian Day (19 August) will draw many to such selfless service. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for an end to the death penalty around the world, that the right of all to the justice that fully respects life be upheld. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for Australia, that the economic and social challenges we face as a nation will bring us together for the sake of the common good. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for scientists of every kind, that National Science Week (13-21 August) will highlight the contribution they make to the wellbeing of the planet and all its creatures. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for the staff and volunteers of welfare agencies around the country, that they be able to respond to the demands made upon them with wisdom and compassion. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
We pray for the recently deceased . . . and for those whose anniversary of death occurs around this time, that they will follow Jesus through death into glory. (Pause for silent prayer) Lord, hear us.
PRESIDER
God of steadfast love, your Son Jesus stayed true to his mission, even as the cross drew close. Give us the courage to follow him to the end. We ask this through Christ our Lord.