INTRODUCTORY REFLECTION
As Matthew tells the story, the imprisoned Baptist is puzzled, if not scandalised, by the nature of Jesus’ messianic ministry.
Jesus was offering healing and good news, not the apocalyptic judgment expected of one who was to ‘baptise with the Holy Spirit and fire’. We’re not told whether the Baptist was satisfied with the message his disciples brought back to him. But we do know that a much greater scandal lay ahead. While John had expected fire and brimstone, Jesus’ disciples expected power and glory, only to be confronted with its negation on the cross.
A crucified Messiah confounded everyone’s expectations. Soon we will marvel at the birth of the Christ-child, but our wonder is tempered by the mortality God’s Word accepts.
THE WEEK’S PRAYER FOCUS
For all practitioners of healing, in body, mind or spirit, that their care for the wellbeing of others will be wise and loving.
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, wherever he went, Jesus brought healing, life and good news. Let us pray for the world to welcome the kingdom of God.
READER
For Pope Francis, that as Christmas approaches his appeal for a new human family of true sisters and brothers will be taken to heart. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For all who bring healing and good news to others, that their ministry of love will be an inspiring sign of God’s new creation. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For prisoners of conscience and all who are unjustly detained, that they will not lose hope in the promise of justice and freedom. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For all who languish in refugee camps around the world, especially children who have known no other life, that their basic needs for food, shelter, safety and sanitation will be met. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For the many people in the Northern Hemisphere facing a harsh winter with limited power supplies, that ways will be found to alleviate their suffering. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For a Spirit-renewed church, that the voices of women and young people will be heard, respected and acted on. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For the democratic nations of the world, that their chosen leaders will strike a fair balance between civil liberties and security controls. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For workers in industries under pressure from climate change, that they and their families and communities will be well assisted In moving to new employment. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
For the recently deceased . . . and for those whose anniversary of death occurs around this time, that they will be raised to eternal life in Christ Jesus. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
PRESIDER
God of all our days, you wait for us with patience. Open the eyes of our hearts to see your love at work around us. We ask this through Christ our Lord.