Opening Prayer Series: Thirty Second Sunday Year A

The Opening Prayer for the 32nd Sunday of Year A reads as follows:

Let us pray

(for health of mind and body)

God of power and mercy,

protect us from all harm.

Give us freedom of spirit

and health in mind and body 

to do Your work on earth

In making this prayer tangible, the following reflection questions emerged.

1. Why should I pray to God for health and mind and body?
2. What sorts of harm in my life do I need God's protection?
3. What does freedom of spirit mean to me?
4. How do I relate to a person who has a mental illness or is elderely with some form of dementia?
5. What is God's work on earth for me-what is my calling/vocation?
6. How have I grown spiritually during this last week and how might I continue this growth this coming week- what is my plan?

As we get closer to the end of the liturgical year, the focus shifts to the end times and we are invited to consider to think about our own mortality. The Church is not asking us to think of it in a morbid manner- no, but to ignore that death is a reality for us is like the foolish bridesmaids who were not ready.We need to live our life in readiness, since we do not know the hour or the day.  It might be useful to

• consider and discuss your wishes with family about arrangements or desires that you may have about your death and keep them updated of any changes.
• prepare the readings and hymns that you might like is a great help to family members.
• think about tying up any loose ends financially for the family.
• consider making a will or revisiting your current one.
• consider a pre-paid funeral plan.

However, apart from the practicalities, the liturgy is really asking us to consider our readiness spiritually. Remember people in your life who have died suddenly either through accident or through sudden illness. Remember how you felt when you heard of their passing.Perhaps you remember what others said at that time in their surprise or shock.

We have to live each day and do our best since God may decide to call us home today.

If you died in your sleep today or were in a tragic accident, are you ready to go home to God? 

Let us prepare physically, emotionally, spiritually and be ready when we get the call.