so these guidelines are part of the service and you get a focused topic from both testaments to back it up. That is interesting. Can you recall a service with the four readings? Perhaps one that you don't remember the readings but you recall the 'lesson' or guideline? I've been to Catholic services but not being a practicing member in that church i would not know or perhaps recognize the procedure regarding this.
Last Sunday, the first reading was from Deuteronomy where we are told that God's Commandments are in our hearts and in our mouths--and we are all capable of knowing them--they are not something far away that someone has to go retrieve them and bring them to us.
The second reading was from Psalms reminding us that God's words are spirit and life.
Third, was a reading from Colossians that Jesus is the first born, the head of the Church.
Fourth we have the parable of the Good Samaritan.
The theme throughout these readings is that God's word is not hidden--it is in our hearts and mouths. We don't have to look far for it, we actually possess it. The same with Jesus. He is the head of the Church and easily found. The story of the Good Samaritan reminds us that Jesus was asked, "Who is my neighbor?" Jesus tells a parable and then asks the man, "Who was the neighbor?" and of course, the man knew. We were taught that God and His word are with us--we do not need to go on a great hunt--simply look within.
There was an old story where angels ask where God's word can be placed so that it is hidden from those who would defile it yet available to those who would treasure it. The reply: "Put it in their hearts because in the heart it is always present--but also a place that can be easily missed by those who do not take it seriously."
In a good homily, all readings are tied together. Add a good choir, and songs with the same theme as the readings are chosen.
