First Reading
Zechariah 9:9-10

1. What idea do you associate with the word meek? Could meekness be a strength? Could meekness/humility help end wars, solve the climate crisis, put an end to racial discrimination? (Humility is a synonym, and truth is a synonym for humility.)

2. Does Jesus have the meekness of the First Reading’s king? Discuss Pope Francis’ statement about this Sunday’s readings:

The world exalts those who are rich and powerful, no matter by what means, and at times tramples upon the human being and his or her dignity. And we see this every day, the poor trampled underfoot. … It is a message for the Church, called to live works of mercy and to evangelize the poor, to be meek and humble. This is how the Lord wants his Church, that is, us, to be.

May the humblest and highest of creatures implore from God wisdom of heart for us, so that we may discern his signs in our lives and be participants in those mysteries which, hidden from the proud, are revealed to the humble.

Pope Francis Angelus 14th Ord A
July 5, 2020

Second Reading
Romans 8:9, 11-13

1. “You are not in the flesh: on the contrary, you are in the spirit. … ” At the Incarnation Christ took on human flesh with all its delights and burdens. Who is there to help us when we feel we are called to “live according to the flesh”?

2. “The Spirit of God dwells in you.” What does this imply about the wonder and holiness of your spirit? Could it help you revere and tend to your neighbor’s needs?

Gospel
Matthew 11:25-30

1. A carpenter hand-made the yoke to fit the animal that wore it. Is your yoke handmade for you? If yes, who “makes” it? How does Jesus speak about his own yoke in Sunday’s Gospel?

2. If Jesus had never labored or been burdened would you still feel he could understand you?