Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: August 12,2026

LECTIO - Read Scripture Text:  Matthe 18:15-20

(Jesus said to his disciples,) “If your brother trespasses against you, go and tell him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have won over your brother. If he will not hear you, take one or two more along with you so that every fact may be established on the word of two or three witnesses. If he refuses to listen to them, tell the Church, then treat him as you would a Gentile or a publican. Truly, I say to you, whatever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven and whatsoever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven. Also, truly, I say to you, if two of you agree on earth about anything for which they are to pray, it shall be granted to them by my heavenly Father. For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.”

MEDITATIO - Meditate on text, allow the LORD to touch us with His Word:

How determine am I to seek reconciliation with others?

BREAKING OPEN THE TEXT:

In today’s gospel reading, Jesus speaks to us about loving correction of one another, about Church authority, and about the power of communal prayer. Jesus direct us to seek the private approach with one another if we are seeking reconciliation, but if that fails, to bring along trusted individuals to join in the conversation recognizing that the goal is reconciliation. Jesus suggests that the Church could be an arbitrator in such matters because of her spiritual authority. Finally, Jesus assures us of the power of communal prayer in His name.

ORATIO – Lifting our minds and hearts to the LORD in prayer:

LORD, send the Spirit to stir within me and give me the grace to seek peace and a loving resolution when I have been hurt. Guard my mind and heart against bitterness and bless me with a forgiving heart, remembering your mercy for me and your calling me to be merciful, too. Amen.

CONTEMPLATIO – Sitting with the LORD in silence for a minute or more