Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: April 24, 2024
- Dr. Kate Wiskus
- Apr 24, 2024
- 2 min read
Date: Wednesday of the 4th Week of Easter
Scripture Text: John 12:44-50
Jesus cried out and said,
“Whoever believes in me believes not only in me but also in the one who sent me, and whoever sees me sees the one who sent me. I came into the world as light, so that everyone who believes in me might not remain in darkness. And if anyone hears my words and does not observe them, I do not condemn him, for I did not come to condemn the world but to save the world. Whoever rejects me and does not accept my words has something to judge him: the word that I spoke, it will condemn him on the last day, because I did not speak on my own, but the Father who sent me commanded me what to say and speak. And I know that his commandment is eternal life. So what I say, I say as the Father told me.”
Breaking the text open – background and summary:
The gospel pericope for today is drawn from John and recounts Jesus’ response to those who having seen his works and heard his teaching still refused to believe. This occurred after his entry into Jerusalem, the week of his passion, death and resurrection. Truly, those who were open to Jesus, his words, and his works found themselves illuminated.
Meditating on the text with personal questions:
Do I utterly and wholly believe in Jesus Christ, Son of God, my savior?
Praying:
LORD, Almighty Father, You sent your Son to dwell among us, to reveal your unfathomable love to us, and to atone for our sins when we were unable and unwilling to do so. You willed that your beloved Son selflessly sacrifice himself for us, to give his life so that we might have life. When we think of Jesus, we think of You; He taught that You and He are one. Send your Spirit to stir within us, to strengthen our faith, to deepen our hope, to intensify our love so. Allow Jesus’ teaching and works to illuminate our minds and transform our hearts. We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Spirit, one LORD, forever and ever. Amen.
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