NOTE: Christ in Our Neighborhood is a parish-based program consisting of small Christian communities that gather in the home weekly to prayerfully discuss the upcoming Sunday Mass readings. It’s easy to form a community and you can find out more at Christ in Our Neighborhood – The Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix (dphx.org)
This coming Sunday, we celebrate the 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time. Check out the question the Christ in Our Neighborhood reflection poses: In what way are you returning to the Lord daily with praise and thanksgiving?
When we were growing up and complained about something, our mom liked to teasingly quote this line from Shakespeare’s King Lear: “Sharper than a serpent’s tooth is an ungrateful child.”
And really, a complaining spirit is an embodiment of ingratitude. Those who like to complain are often quick to point out problems but not so speedy when it comes to giving thanks.
In our Gospel this Sunday, Jesus heals 10 lepers, but only one returns to thank Him. How often do we count our blessings and thank the Lord for them? Do we realize that every heartbeat, every breath is a gift from God? Do we recognize how generously God has blessed us or are we more likely to complain about things not going quite our way? Take some time today to think about all God has given to you. How will you show your gratitude today?
If you haven’t joined a Christ in Our Neighborhood small group yet, perhaps you are being called to start one yourself. Check out our website today to find out more: dphx.org/Christ-in-our-neighborhood.
Watch the video of the weekly podcast segment featuring Christ in Our Neighborhood with Bishop Dolan by clicking HERE.
Be sure to attend our Sept. 6 Morning of Reflection for all CION participants and leaders at the Diocesan Pastoral Center, 8 a.m. to noon. You can RSVP for this free event HERE.
To sign up for our weekly Christ in Our Neighborhood newsletter that has everything you need for your next meeting, visit: https://phoenixdiocese.flocknote.com/CION
