Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: February 3, 2024

Date:   Saturday of the 4th Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text:  Mark 6:30-34

The Apostles gathered together with Jesus and reported all they had done and taught. He said to them, “Come away by yourselves to a deserted place and rest a while.” People were coming and going in great numbers, and they had no opportunity even to eat. So, they went off in the boat by themselves to a deserted place. People saw them leaving and many came to know about it. They hastened there on foot from all the towns and arrived at the place before them.

When Jesus disembarked and saw the vast crowd, his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd; and he began to teach them many things.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel text for today from Mark speaks to the human hunger for loving goodness, wholeness and peace. The people sought out Jesus and the disciples hoping not only for healing but also for truth and hope. Jesus knows the needs of others and cares. He recognizes the needs of his disciples as well as the crowds who come to Him.   

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I bring my needs to Christ?

Praying:

LORD, Jesus Christ, as your disciples, as ones who believes with all our mind and heart that You are the Son of God, our Savior, we come to You not only to learn with our minds but also with our hearts. Show us “the way.” Send your Spirit to fill us with courage and resolve, with wisdom and knowledge, with faith and hope. Grant that we may be true disciples who follow in your footsteps as we make our way with You. Amen.