Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: February 16, 2024

Date:  Friday after Ash Wednesday

Scripture Text:  Matthew 9:14-15

The disciples of John approached Jesus and said, “Why do we and the Pharisees fast much, but your disciples do not fast?” Jesus answered them, “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast.”

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel for today from Matthew recounts Jesus’ explanation to the disciples of John the Baptist for his disciples not fasting, namely, that they are in a time of joy as at a wedding. Their joy is because of Jesus’ presence among them. However, Jesus warns, there will be a time when He will be taken away from them. Note Jesus does not say that He will leave them, but rather that He will be taken away from them – his arrest, crucifixion and death on a cross. Jesus speaks of himself as “bridegroom.” We, the believers/disciples, are His bride.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

What is my relationship with Jesus like? How well do I know Jesus – not just know about Him – but really know Him as we are in a relationship?

Praying:

LORD, Jesus Christ, Son of God, our redeemer, we journey in this life to life in abundance with You. We seek to know You, not just know about You. We come to You, we open our minds and hearts to You through prayer and through the reading of scriptures. Send your Spirit to kindle within us the fire of your love so that it fuels us this day and all days. Grant that we may grow daily in our love for You, for our Father who sent You, and for the Spirit who guides us. Amen.