Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: August 29, 2024

Date: Thursday of the 21st Week in Ordinary Time/Memorial of the Passion of John the Baptist

Scripture Text:  1 Corinthians 1:1-9

Paul, called to be an Apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God, and Sosthenes our brother, to the Church of God that is in Corinth, to you who have been sanctified in Christ Jesus, called to be holy, with all those everywhere who call upon the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, their Lord and ours.

Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ. I give thanks to my God always on your account for the grace of God bestowed on you in Christ Jesus, that in him you were enriched in every way, with all discourse and all knowledge, as the testimony to Christ was confirmed among you, so that you are not lacking in any spiritual gift as you wait for the revelation of our Lord Jesus Christ.  He will keep you firm to the end, irreproachable on the day of our Lord Jesus Christ.

God is faithful, and by him you were called to fellowship with his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The first reading for today is drawn from Paul’s 1st Letter to the Corinthians. It highlights Paul’s grounding in his conversion and faith in Christ Jesus and shows his understanding of the gift and grace of life in fellowship with Jesus Christ.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I give thanks to Christ for my faith? Do I give thanks for the difference Christ makes in my life?  Do I share it with others?

Praying:

LORD, thank You for the gift of faith and for the fruits of my relationship with You. Daily I draw upon the knowledge of your power and presence at work in my life, in my world, in my very being. Thank you, LORD, for your faithfulness. Instill in me this faithfulness that will withstand all worldly temptations. Strengthen daily my bond with You, my reliance on You, my love for You. Amen