Spotlight! Session #9 Week of 2/23/20 Prophets

Opening Prayer The Nicene Creed

I believe in one God, the Father almighty, maker of heaven and earth, of all things visible and invisible.

I believe in one Lord Jesus Christ, the Only Begotten Son of God, born of the Father before all ages. God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, consubstantial with the Father; through him all things were made. For us men and for our salvation he came down from heaven, and by the Holy Spirit was incarnate of the Virgin Mary, and became man. For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate, he suffered death and was buried, and rose again on the third day in accordance with the Scriptures. He ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father. He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead and his kingdom will have no end.

I believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father and the Son, who with the Father and the Son is adored and glorified, who has spoken through the prophets.

I believe in one, holy, catholic and apostolic Church. I confess one Baptism for the forgiveness of sins and I look forward to the resurrection of the dead and the life of the world to come. Amen.

Icebreaker Discussion: Here you will find a current top 40 song. The subject of the song may/may not reflect the topic of the lesson. PLEASE PLAY THE AUDIO VERSION OF THE SONG! Music videos are the work of artists and video producers and associate an image with the song that may or may not represent the lyrical value of the song. The goal of the icebreaker song is to have a song that both students and parents have heard or is currently charting. We want to use these songs to get parents and students talking so when we get to the core of the lesson, both parties are warmed up and ready to share. Parents should view the video and lyrics prior to the lesson to see if it is something that you want to view during the lesson.

One Call Away – Charlie Puth Values: Positive Pace: Medium Clarity: Clear Issues: “and when you’re weak I’ll be strong, I’m gonna keep holding on, Now don’t you worry, it won’t be long, Darling, and when you feel like hope is gone, just run into my arms.” Here is a song that could come from one of the prophets of the old testament telling you to put your faith in God. Jesus wants you to run into his arms when times are tough. Questions: Who is one person that you call on for encouragement or help when you need it? Actions: Pray for people who are far from God right now.

Mass Readings for Sunday 2/23/20 If you would like to preview the Gospel and the reading for the week you can find them here: http://www.usccb.org/bible/readings/022320.cfm

TRIVIA ZONE (know these facts as they will be part of our Kahoot! Trivia for large group) 1. Prophet – a messenger from God who speaks the truth and calls the people to follow the laws of God’s covenant and act with justice. 2. The Major Prophets are: Isaiah, Jeremiah, Ezekiel, Daniel 3. The Minor Prophets are: Hosea, Joel, Amos, Obadiah, Jonah, Micah, Nahum, Habakkuk, Zephania, Haggai, Zachariah, Malachi

Featured Scripture for Discussion For this lesson we will look at the major and minor prophets in the Old Testament and the questions will be on those prophets and not related to a certain scripture. Take time to read and review all the prophets. This make take extra time.

The word "prophet" comes from the Hebrew word for "mouth." The prophets hold a prominent place in the Old Testament, in fact, nearly one-third of the Bible consists of the writings of the prophets. So, if you don't understand the prophets—who they were or what they said—you are effectively missing out on about thirty percent of the Scriptures. The prophets spanned a long period of time during some of Israel's darkest days. That is not to say there have not been prophets at other times in history. God still calls prophets, even today. But the prophets listed here are a little different. They point toward and unpack God's revelation. Modern-day prophets point back and explain revelation. The prophets were not magicians or fortune tellers. They were ordinary people who were called to share extraordinary things. With the exception of Isaiah, almost all the prophets were reluctant. The messages God gave them were not comfortable, and the sufferings they endured were not pleasant. You might be called to live a prophet's life, and as a result, die a prophet's death. Like Jeremiah, God might want to use you to preach his truth to a generation and culture that has lost all recognition of sin. Once you take an active role in your faith, you are going to find yourself in some tough situations from time to time. Sometimes, it is better not to say anything at all and to preach by a holy example. And we cannot forget the fact that actions speak louder than words." On the other hand, if you do not speak up in certain situations because you would be uncomfortable or think it is not your job and that "someone else should ... someone older or more knowledgeable," then God's truth will go unspoken. God might be calling you the same way he called the prophets. Don't assume God's call is for someone else. What set these prophets apart was not their holiness but their openness to God. God does not call the equipped; he equips the called. There were prophets like Moses and Samuel whose narrative books (the Pentateuch and First and Second Samuel) you have studied. The following is a list of both the "major" and "minor" prophets with a brief explanation about things to look for in their writings or messages, Hopefully, it will help you in your ongoing study of God's "mouthpieces," the prophets.

The Major Prophets

Isaiah means "Yahweh is Salvation” The most famous of the prophets, Isaiah, prophesied more about Christ than all the other prophets combined, His language and message are simple, just like God's love. The first half of Isaiah (Chapters 1-39) speaks mostly about judgment and repentance; the second half (Chapters 40-66) speaks mostly about salvation and mercy. Isaiah's message is challenging and hopeful.

Jeremiah means “Yahweh has uplifted” Jeremiah was a kind young man God called to deliver a not-so-kind message. Jeremiah is called out of his comfort zone and sent to talk to people far "older, wiser, and more powerful" than himself. He teaches the need to obey God, to trust him, and to abandon ourselves to him. He suffers many hardships, including hatred, false conviction, and a life filled with threats of harm. Still, he never stops proclaiming God's truth to a people who have lost their consciousness of sin. Jeremiah is a hero among the prophets and for young believers. His life is a testament to how difficult but fulfilling it can be to follow God's vocation for your life.

Ezekiel means “God Strengthens” Ezekiel lived among the exiles at the time of the Babylonian captivity (the Exile time period). He was not only a prophet but also a priest, and he ministered to the Israelites while they were imprisoned. He calls them to choose salvation over sin actively, not just in their words. He urges them to be open to the Spirit of God so they might attain the freedom and salvation they so earnestly desire.

Daniel means "God is my judge " Daniel was a prophet, but his book contains visions and writings known as apocalyptic (similar to the book of Revelation). While the book contains truths that were timely to the period in which it was written, it also contains plans and visions of things to come. Daniel reminds the people that God is still at work and in control, and that the Messiah is coming. The book of Daniel demonstrates that those who hold worldly power are not more powerful than God. His chosen ones should not fear, because the LORD is with them.

The Minor Prophets

Hosea means “Salvation” Hosea's main message is to show the nature of God's infinite love and how love is strengthened through suffering. God uses Hosea's relationship with an unfaithful wife to show how Israel has been an unfaithful bride to God.

Joel means “Strong Willed or Yahweh is God” Suffering is a reality, but so is God's mercy. Joel speaks about God's merciful judgment of sin and his authority, reassuring us that both suffering and sin will be set straight on the Last Day, the Day of Judgment.

Amos means “To carry the burden” Those who are lustful, selfish, prideful, and greedy are the targets of God's words through the prophet Amos. He is forceful and unapologetic in the way he speaks out about sin and the need for people to make drastic changes in their lives. Amos leaves little doubt that hypocrisy and sin lead to death.

Obadiah means "Servant of Yahweh. " Obadiah has a very simple message: "Do the crime and you're gonna do the time." He speaks to the Edomites (descendants of Esau, brother of Jacob), They are a godless people who do not believe their sin has consequences. Obadiah comes on the scene to remind them that they will pay the price for their sins.

Jonah means "Dove. " The book (and life) of Jonah teaches us several things. You cannot run from God. No one "culture" or religion" is worth more to God than another. Finally, man's mind will never fully comprehend God's plan; it is better to be obedient and trusting, no matter what comes your way. Micah means "Who is like Yahweh. " Micah's message is really very simple: There is sin and punishment, or there is sin and reconciliation ... choom. He speaks plainly about what God s wants and expects from us (6:8) and of the fact that while we are sinners, there is always hope in God.

Nahum means "Comforter. " We are reminded by Nahum that "power" on earth means nothing in heaven. Humility is the root of all power, and no one is more powerful than God. Ultimately, Nahum proves a variation of an old cliché: "The bigger the sinner, the harder the fall." Habakkuk means "Embrace.” Habakkuk delivers a message that is so deep, it is simple. Love means pain, and a God who is love can use pain to stop pain. God can write straight with crooked lines and can use suffering to help put an end to suffering. His message is one of trust, patience, faithfulness, and hope in pain-filled times. Zephaniah means "Hidden by Yahweh. " We are warned of several things by Zephaniah; among them is not to confuse God's mercy with weakness. We are sinners who need to repent and live by God's commands. Our humility will lead to our redemption. Haggai means "festive. " The message of Haggai is that God is "number one." Put God first, period. He reminds the people that the Messiah is coming and to prepare for his arrival by keeping God primary in their lives, homes, and families.

Zechariah means 'Yahweh remembers. " Zechariah paints word pictures, giving us beautiful images of the Messiah to come (or, in our case, "come back"). He reminds those that feel forgotten by God that God never forgets his people or his covenant. The symbolism in Zechariah is amazing.

Malachi means "My messenger. " Long before the Boy Scouts adopted this as their motto, Malachi was warning people to "be prepared" in their souls because the Lord is coming back. He speaks out against contentment, laziness, and pride. He speaks harshly and loudly to those who feel they are equal to God and offers a loud parting invitation to them to rededicate themselves to God. He is the last Old Testament prophet before the arrival of John the Baptist, who will pick up the same theme of preparing the way of the Lord. (Taken from the Teen Timeline – Ascension Press)

Discussion Questions:

1. Why would God choose to share his word with so many different people? 2. Why so many prophets? 3. What prophet do you think you would listen to? Why? 4. Who are some modern-day prophets? Are there any? Do you think God still wants us to hear his story? 5. If God called you to be a prophet, how would you deliver his message? 6. Have you heard the new Kanye West album – Jesus is King? a. Jesus is King is a gospel infused rap album with all the songs relating to Jesus or conversion to the faith. b. A polarizing personality in pop culture can Kanye be a prophet? Why or why not? c. The Grammy-award winning rapper is the first artist to dominate all 10 spots on both Billboard's Hot Christian Songs and Hot Gospel Songs charts. The album also reached the top of three other Billboard charts, including Top Rap Album. Do you think having so many people listen to this type of music will help convert them to a relationship with Jesus? d. Do you think people (both teens and adults) are more likely to hear the Good News of Jesus from someone like Kanye over someone like our pastor Fr. Michael? Explain your answer. e. Kanye songs to listen to: Use This Gospel, God Is.

Saint Profile: St. Anthony of Pauda https://youtu.be/ObE8RaHitLw

Saint Anthony of Padua’s Story

The gospel call to leave everything and follow Christ was the rule of Saint Anthony of Padua’s life. Over and over again, God called him to something new in his plan. Every time Anthony responded with renewed zeal and self-sacrificing to serve his Lord Jesus more completely.

His journey as the servant of God began as a very young man when he decided to join the Augustinians in Lisbon, giving up a future of wealth and power to be a servant of God. Later when the bodies of the first Franciscan martyrs went through the Portuguese city where he was stationed, he was again filled with an intense longing to be one of those closest to Jesus himself: those who die for the Good News.

So Anthony entered the Franciscan Order and set out to preach to the Moors. But an illness prevented him from achieving that goal. He went to Italy and was stationed in a small hermitage where he spent most of his time praying, reading the Scriptures and doing menial tasks. The call of God came again at an ordination where no one was prepared to speak. The humble and obedient Anthony hesitantly accepted the task. The years of searching for Jesus in prayer, of reading sacred Scripture and of serving him in poverty, chastity, and obedience had prepared Anthony to allow the Spirit to use his talents. Anthony’s sermon was astounding to those who expected an unprepared speech and knew not the Spirit’s power to give people words.

Recognized as a great man of prayer and a great Scripture and theology scholar, Anthony became the first friar to teach theology to the other friars. Soon he was called from that post to preach to the Albigensians in France, using his profound knowledge of Scripture and theology to convert and reassure those who had been misled by their denial of Christ’s divinity and of the sacraments.

After he led the friars in northern Italy for three years, he made his headquarters in the city of Padua. He resumed his preaching and began writing sermon notes to help other preachers. In the spring of 1231 Anthony withdrew to a friary at Camposampiero where he had a sort of treehouse built as a hermitage. There he prayed and prepared for death.

On June 13, he became very ill and asked to be taken back to Padua, where he died after receiving the last sacraments. Anthony was canonized less than a year later and named a Doctor of the Church in 1946.

Reflection

Anthony should be the patron of those who find their lives completely uprooted and set in a new and unexpected direction. Like all saints, he is a perfect example of turning one’s life completely over to Christ. God did with Anthony as God pleased—and what God pleased was a life of spiritual power and brilliance that still attracts admiration today. He, whom popular devotion has nominated as finder of lost objects found himself by losing himself totally to the providence of God. Saint Anthony of Padua can help us live our lives better. We can make prayer a priority, work hard every day. You can surround yourself with holy people and when you follow Saint Anthony’s example, you can say yes to things, even if you feel you do not think you have the gifts to do it.

Saint Anthony of Padua is the Patron Saint of: Lost items Poor Travelers

Wins and Spins Have each member of your family or small group talk about a “win” for the day. Something that went well or you feel good about. Now have each member of your group talk about a “spin” something that did not go as planned, was disappointing or you feel could be improved. After each member of your group has said a win and a spin, pray for each member’s spins.

Example: My win for today is I got a A on a quiz. My spin for today is that I had a fight with my mom this morning and I feel bad about the things I said. (the group will now pray for each person’s “Spin” so there will be healing or improvement.)

Christian Music Song of the Day

Awake My Soul – Chris Tomlin - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fWpvknKuYrg This song is inspired by Ezekiel 37 When have you felt dry and lifeless, like the collection of dry bones Ezekiel sees in his vision in Ezekiel 37? What helps you re-energize, to put muscle and flesh back on your tired bones? What winds blow life through you to give you breath again, to make you new again? How can you help to energize others who seem dry and lifeless?

Closing Prayer Our Father, Who art in Heaven, hallowed be Thy name; Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day our daily bread; and forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us; and lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil. Amen.