Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: February 25, 2024

Date:  2nd Sunday of Lent

Scripture Text:  Romans 8:31b-34

Brothers and sisters: If God is for us, who can be against us? He who did not spare his own Son but handed him over for us all, how will he not also give us everything else along with him? Who will bring a charge against God's chosen ones? It is God who acquits us, who will condemn? Christ Jesus it is who died—or, rather, was raised—who also is at the right hand of God, who indeed intercedes for us.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The second reading for today is taken from Paul’s Letter to the Romans and reminds us of what the LORD has done for us out of love for us. Paul also uses this moment to remind us of what is essential and what is not. Our loving relationship with the LORD is essential. The approval of earthly entities for our love of the LORD and for living the life the LORD calls us to live may result in condemnation from earthly powers, but ultimately, the all-powerful LORD will prevail and us with the LORD if we remain faithful and loving.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Who am I trying to please? The LORD or those in power on earth?

Praying:

LORD, You are the source of all goodness that exists in our world and in us. Your love surpasses all love for You yourself are love. For love of us and desire that we might have life with You, You sent your only begotten Son to us, to take upon himself our nature and to give His life in atonement for our sins. Such a love is difficult for us to comprehend. Send your Spirit to open our minds and hearts so that might not only acknowledge your sacrifice for us but comprehend its loving power on us as individuals and on all that is. Give us the courage to live as your daughters and sons and to pick up our own crosses to follow in the footsteps of your beloved Son who calls us as disciples. 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.