Ordinary Time Readings: Sunday, June 29

Reading:  Genesis 2:7-9, 15-18, 20b-25 and John 15:1-11

Reflection Questions:

  1. Roam the fertile ground of the Garden of Eden as you read and reflect on the creation narrative about humanity’s origin.  What do you notice; what do you sense; what do you understand from God’s good intention for humanity?
  1. God presented one limitation in the garden (out of all that was given to Adam to eat and enjoy, there was 1 prohibition put on 1 tree in the garden). Limitations are often seen as a “bad.” We want what we want when and how we want it. But in this narrative, the limitation of God was for humanity’s “good” in his created order of life. How have you experienced or understood limitations as a “good” in your life? When confronted with a limitation in life, how do you respond to it? How might a limitation become a friend in the spiritual formation of your soul? Maybe you are currently struggling with some limitation and can’t seem to see it as a good. What if you were to see it as a way to accept your finitude, and an invitation to trust (rely on, depend on) God for the care of you body, soul, and entire life? How would this change the way you live with limitations?
  1. Read Jesus’ words to us in John 15:1-11. How does the picture of a garden as a metaphor for relationship and life expand your understanding of God’s intentions for you? What do you hear Jesus inviting you to experience? How might you respond to his invitations today? Talk to God about the things in your life, in your body, in your spirit that seem challenging to accept or embrace. Give thanks for specific ways you’ve experience fertile ground under the Gardener’s loving care.