INTRODUCTORY REFLECTION
We’re told that God’s people of old were moved to sadness and tears by Ezra’s solemn reading of the Law.
It seems to have brought home their failure of faith. But they’re told to wipe away their tears and enjoy a feast instead.
Jesus’ prophetic proclamation in the synagogue at Nazareth had the reverse effect. It was met first with great approval, then with fierce anger. Such powerful reactions stand in stark contrast to the general neutrality of our response to the word of God. It’s as if we have been immunised against the threat of its life-changing potential.
Now it’s time to take the risk of laying our lives open to its piercing truth. Jesus promised it would set us free.
THE WEEK’S PRAYER FOCUS
For all the baptised, that they will make Jesus’ mission of grace, healing and liberation their own.
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, in the power of the Spirit Jesus proclaimed the saving rule of God. Let us pray for the whole world to be made new.
READER
For preachers, catechists and all ministers of God’s word, that they will effectively communicate the joy of the Gospel. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For the homeless, the stateless and all held unjustly in detention, that their right to safety and shelter will be upheld and fulfilled. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For leaders taking decisive steps to address global warming, that their prophetic action will inspire many others to care for God’s creation. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For peoples suffering severe and prolonged drought, especially in Eastern Africa, that the world community will provide the food supplies they desperately need. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For all who feel overwhelmed by the on-going effects of the pandemic, that inner strength and community support will see them through. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For the people of Australia, that this week’s national observance will widen their embrace of the Uluru Statement from the Heart. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For teachers, that today’s International Day of Education (24 January) will affirm the invaluable role they play in enriching children’s lives. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For this parish community, that all gifts of Spirit will be welcomed and will build up the body of Christ. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For the recently deceased . . . and for those whose anniversary of death occurs around this time, that their hopes for eternal life will be fully realised. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
PRESIDER
Mighty God, by your Word all things came to life. By the power of your Spirit help speak your life-giving Word to the world. We ask this through Christ our Lord.