Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: February 12, 2024

Date:   Monday of the 6th Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text:  Mark 8:11-13

The Pharisees came forward and began to argue with Jesus, seeking from him a sign from heaven to test him. He sighed from the depth of his spirit and said, "Why does this generation seek a sign? Amen, I say to you, no sign will be given to this generation." Then he left them, got into the boat again, and went off to the other shore.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel text for today from Mark reveals the rejection of Jesus’ teaching and work in the Pharisee’s insistence upon a sign. Taken in the context of the Gospel, immediately following healings and the multiplication of loaves and fishes – already given signs – it shows a group closed to reality of the LORD present and working in their midst.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

How open am I to the LORD’s power and presence at work in me and in my world? Do I recognize that as a sign or do I insist on “a sign” of my choosing?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, always and everywhere throughout the ages your power and presence are at work in our midst, manifestations of your great love for us. The greatest sign of your love is the gift of your Son to humanity for our salvation. Send your Spirit to open our eyes and ears and minds and hearts to your power and presence moment to moment. Grant that we may embrace the sacrifice of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ, as the sign for humanity of your unfathomable love for us. 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.