One key idea of this chapter is that we are called to be dreamers. What this means is that we are called to understand Jesus’ parables, miracles, and Paschal mystery. Even though the parables that Jesus told were not true stories, the spiritual level of the parable reveals truths about God and his kingdom. As we start to understand the parables on a deeper and more spiritual level, we can start to see how God’s kingdom is truly going to be. His parables, miracles, and the Paschal mystery help us learn about our inner world which is the source of our dreams. If we are open to what God is trying to say to us then we can connect our dreams and hopes to God’s own. These stories were not just stories that Jesus thought would entertain the crowds. They were stories that God shared with us to show us the way to his kingdom.
B) Write about two major ideas you want to remember. Write a short paragraph on each clearly stating the idea and then telling why you want to remember it.
One major thing that I want to remember from this chapter is the community of Taizé, France and how all different peoples of different backgrounds and experiences came together to form a community that would be reconciled again and again. This community put aside there different denominations and individual beliefs to form a very idealistic community. These people are very good examples of how we are suppose to live with one another the way Jesus would have wanted us to live.
Another major thing that I would like to remember from this chapter is of how Jesus spoke in parables. Not only were these parables entertaining but they also helped Jesus followers understand tough concepts because he put them in situations that the common person could relate to. Without a personal connection to Jesus’ teachings, the whole message is pointless. It will either be too confusing or the message will go out one ear and out the other. The parables made the truths of God and his kingdom timeless because we can still relate to what is happening in the story.
C) One image that captures the chapter for you.
D) One significant question you have from this chapter. It can be intellectual or personal. Just write out the question. Try to answer it if you want.
Why did people reject Jesus even when they saw all the good miracles he was performing? Was it because they thought he was possessed by demons or was it because of his radical parable teachings?
E) What is your favorite parable or miracle story? Cite the passage (book, chapter and verse) and explain why you chose this.
My favorite parable in the New Testament is the parable of the Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32). The reason I like this parable so much is because it gives me assurance that God, no matter how much I mess up, will always invite me back with open arms. Unlike people who will make you pay the consequences for your mistakes, God will never make you repay for the damage you have done when you repent to him. Another reason I like this parable is because I can relate to the older brother in the parable. Once, my brother was trying to ride his bike with his eyes close when he slammed his face into our neighbor’s mailbox. I thought that he was going to be in trouble for sure because he bent the pole on the mailbox with his face. However, my mom was happier to know he was ok, instead of being angry because he damaged our neighbor’s property. Like the older brother in the Prodigal son, I was kind of mad because my brother did something careless and was not being punished for it. However, the message here has showed me that God is forgiving for anything we do and we should try to be more compassionate to our neighbor even when they sin against us.
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