Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: December 14, 2023

Date:   Memorial of St. John of the Cross – Thursday of the 2nd Week of Advent

 Scripture Text:  Matthew 11:11-15

Jesus said to the crowds: "Amen, I say to you, among those born of women there has been none greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the Kingdom of heaven is greater than he. From the days of John the Baptist until now, the Kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent are taking it by force. All the prophets and the law prophesied up to the time of John. And if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah, the one who is to come. Whoever has ears ought to hear."

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

 The gospel for today, as we continue our Advent journey, recounts Jesus’ acknowledging that He is the Messiah, the Son of God, by acknowledging that John the Baptist was Elijah, the prophet who was to reappear to herald the coming of the LORD.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

 As I continue my Advent preparations, am I focused on Christ or on the holiday of Christmas?

Praying:

LORD,  Almighty Father, as we continue our preparations for the observance of incarnational birth of your only begotten and beloved Son to Mary in Bethlehem, we also celebrate the promise that Christ will come again and look forward to that day, hoping to be ready. Send your Spirit to stir our hearts, to strengthen our resolve, and to steady us so that we remain vigilant in our faith. 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.