Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: January 14,2026

Date: Wednesday of the 1^st Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text:   Mark 1:29-39

On leaving the synagogue Jesus entered the house of Simon and Andrew with James and John. Simon’s mother-in-law lay sick with a fever. They immediately told him about her. He approached, grasped her hand, and helped her up. Then the fever left her and she waited on them.

When it was evening, after sunset, they brought to him all who were ill or possessed by demons. The whole town was gathered at the door. He cured many who were sick with various diseases, and he drove out many demons, not permitting them to speak because they knew him.

Rising very early before dawn, he left and went off to a deserted place, where he prayed.Simon and those who were with him pursued him and on finding him said, “Everyone is looking for you.” He told them, “Let us go on to the nearby villages that I may preach there also. For this purpose have I come.” So he went into their synagogues, preaching and driving out demons throughout the whole of Galilee.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

 Today’s gospel reading shows clearly Jesus’ sense of mission in his presence to those in need and in his sense of purpose as he expressed it to his disciples. In considering the healing of Simon’s mother-in-law, we see Jesus’ authentic care, His real presence, and His use of His power and authority for the good of others.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

 As a follower of Jesus Christ, do I have a sense of purpose? Do I understand  my mission in this world and with my life?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, I seek to follow your only-begotten Son, Jesus Christ, as His faithful disciple. I seek to continue His ongoing salvific mission here in this world with my life for love of Him and for your glory. Send the Spirit to help me clearly and prayerfully discern where He is calling me and to stir within me the resolve to go wherever He leads me. I ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, your beloved Son, who lives and reigns with You and the Spirit, one LORD, forever and ever. Amen.