Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: August 5, 2024

Date: Monday of the 18th Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text:  Matthew 14:13-21

When Jesus heard of the death of John the Baptist, he withdrew in a boat to a deserted place by himself. The crowds heard of this and followed him on foot from their towns. When he disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, and he cured their sick. When it was evening, the disciples approached him and said, "This is a deserted place and it is already late; dismiss the crowds so that they can go to the villages and buy food for themselves." He said to them, "There is no need for them to go away; give them some food yourselves." But they said to him, "Five loaves and two fish are all we have here." Then he said, "Bring them here to me," and he ordered the crowds to sit down on the grass. Taking the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up to heaven, he said the blessing, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds. They all ate and were satisfied, and they picked up the fragments left over–twelve wicker baskets full. Those who ate were about five thousand men, not counting women and children.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel text for today recounts one of Jesus’ miracles of feeding the multitudes (the second is found in Mt. 15). We witness Jesus’ compassion for the people’s suffering and for their physical needs. We also see Jesus challenge the disciples to “give them some food yourselves.” However, the faith of the disciples is not yet strong enough to trust in the LORD’s power and presence. Jesus gives us an example that we should bring to our whole life: give thanks for what is even when it appears insufficient and give it over to the LORD for sacred use, then break open what you have and share it with faith, hope and love.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I at times not act because I believe I and my gifts for the moment are insufficient? Do I begin my day and activities giving thanks to the LORD for what I have been given and ask the LORD to use it for His glory and service?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, You sent your beloved Son to us as our brother, to dwell among us, and to reveal You and your unfathomable love to us through His teachings and through His deeds. He revealed to us what is possible when we rely upon You and the Spirit, how what seems insufficient to the human eye is more than adequate when given over to You in loving goodness. Send your Spirit to strengthen our resolve to do all we can in His name for your glory. 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.