INTRODUCTORY REFLECTION
The psalmist and the prophet both set the flourishing of the just against the withering of the sinner. They echo Moses: ‘See, today I set before you life and prosperity, death and disaster’ (Dt 30:15).
Jesus follows suit with his list of opposing blessings and woes. Often enough he confronts his followers with a stark choice between life and death (Lk 9:24). There may be a limit to the effectiveness of posing such bare alternatives, but the tactic has its merits. It’s easy to take refuge in life’s complexities to avoid making hard decisions about our loyalties, letting a grey fog obscure the black and white of commitment.
As Jesus himself put it, make sure you mean your ‘yes’ and your ‘no’ (Mt 5:37).
THE WEEK’S PRAYER FOCUS
For all who are poor, hungry, grieving or maligned, that Jesus’ promise of divine blessing will keep their hopes for relief alive.
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 calls his listeners to consider the choices they make, either to promote life or stifle it. Let us pray for the world to find and take the path of life.
READER
We pray for Pope Francis and all teachers of wisdom, that they will inspire many to find their hearts’ true desires and make choices that are life-giving. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for the staff and volunteers of humanitarian agencies working in places of danger and desperation, that they will provide relief, comfort and safety for those in need. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for the whole human family, that this week’s International Day of Social Justice (20 February) will unite everyone in the work of reducing inequality, exclusion and disadvantage. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for conferences of Catholic bishops in countries with autocratic and hostile leaders, that they will speak out with one voice in favour of fundamental human rights. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for political leaders, media personnel and social influencers, that they will use their platforms to encourage respectful public debate, not divisive argument. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for an end to all forms of racial, religious or cultural prejudice, that the Australian community will provide a safe space for all to live peacefully together. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for all who have lost loved ones, homes or livelihoods in this summer’s floods and fires, that emergency aid and the support of their local community will give them they strength they need to go on. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for all who have been subjected to financial abuse by controlling spouses or partners, that they will break free from this domination and claim their proper independence. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord
We pray for those who have died recently . . . . , and those whose anniversary of death occurs around this time, that they will be raised with Christ, the first-fruits of all who have fallen asleep. (Pause) Let us pray to the Lord.
PRESIDER
God of all goodness, through your Son Jesus you promise life and joy to those who put their trust in you. Help us to hear and heed his word. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.