Call to Compassion

Scripture

When Jesus returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. So many gathered around that there was no longer room for them, not even in front of the door; and he was speaking the word to them. Then some people came, bringing to him a man who was paralyzed, carried by four of them. And when they could not bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him; and after having dug through it, they let down the mat on which the paralytic lay. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, 'Son, your sins are forgiven.' (Mk 2:1-12)

Mt 14:14 "When he went ashore, he saw a great crowd; and he had compassion for them and cured their sick."

Note: This meeting is adapted from https://clc-usa.com/caminos/

Introduction & Welcome (1 min.)

I. Opening Prayer (5 min.)

Grace: To embody God’s healing through inclusion and kinship in all our relationships.

Use the grace and the suggested scripture above to create your own prayer, or use the one below.

Dear Jesus, in the same way that you saw the faith of the paralytic’s friends and healed him, we ask that you hear our own desires for healing in our lives and communities. Please give us the strength and courage to remove the obstacles that inhibit us and others from encountering your healing presence. Amen.

II. Check-In (5 min.)

- When was the last time someone showed you compassion? (e.g., professor extends the deadline, forgiveness, etc.)

III. Focus Exercise (40 min.)

Materials Needed: CLC supply box (CLC journal booklets, papers, pens, etc.)

Introduction

Introduce the meeting to the group and explain that the following passage of Jesus healing a paralytic will frame the meeting. Invite the group to close their eyes and let the words sink into their hearts. After a brief moment of silence, begin reading the passage aloud. (Note: you may use Lectio Divina or Ignatian Contemplation to guide the meditation)

Story: Removing the Roof (Mark 2:1-12)

When Jesus returned to Capernaum after some days, it was reported that he was at home. So many gathered around that there was no longer room for them, not even in front of the door; and he was speaking the word to them. Then some people came, bringing to him a man who was paralyzed, carried by four of them. And when they could not bring him to Jesus because of the crowd, they removed the roof above him; and after having dug through it, they let down the mat on which the paralytic lay. When Jesus saw their faith, he said to the paralytic, ‘Son, your sins are forgiven.’

Now some of the scribes were sitting there, questioning in their hearts, ‘Why does this fellow speak in this way? It is blasphemy! Who can forgive sins but God alone?’ At once Jesus perceived in his spirit that they were discussing these questions among themselves; and he said to them, ‘Why do you raise such questions in your hearts? Which is easier, to say to the paralytic, “Your sins are forgiven”, or to say, “Stand up and take your mat and walk”? But so that you may know that the Son of Man has authority on earth to forgive sins’—he said to the paralytic—‘I say to you, stand up, take your mat and go to your home.’ And he stood up, and immediately took the mat and went out before all of them; so that they were all amazed and glorified God, saying, ‘We have never seen anything like this!’

Reflection of the Story

Tattoos on the Heart–The Power of Boundless Compassion

Introduce Greg Boyle’s reflection of the story. Encourage members to take notice of the images and words that move and/or challenge them. Have someone read the excerpt aloud.

Journaling

Invite members to take time to pray and respond to the scripture and the reflection above. Encourage them to pay attention to the movements of their hearts. Play instrumental music while they pray. (Note: The questions are in their journal booklets)

Sharing

Invite members to share.

Listening Deeper

Suggested questions to deepen awareness of inner movements and further conversation

- How does the First Principle and Foundation affirm or challenge your orientation during the activity?
- Is there anything that you are feeling called to let-go of?
- Is there anything that you are feeling more grateful for?
- Is there anything that you would like to reflect upon further in the coming weeks?

IV. Moving Forward (5 min.)

Action:
- Pray with Awareness Examen: focus on the question, “How am I called to compassion in reaching out to those who are poor and marginalized in the society?”
- Group service project: discuss group service project next quarter
Announcements: Topic for next meeting and upcoming CLC events

V. Closing Prayer (5 min.)

Pray for each other or for those who are poor and marginalized in the society.