Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: January 5,2026

Date: Memorial of St. John Neumann, Bishop

Scripture Text:  Matthew 4:12-17, 23-25

When Jesus heard that John had been arrested, he withdrew to Galilee. He left Nazareth and went to live in Capernaum by the sea, in the region of Zebulun and Naphtali, that what had been said through Isaiah the prophet might be fulfilled:

Land of Zebulun and land of Naphtali, the way to the sea, beyond the Jordan, Galilee of the Gentiles, the people who sit in darkness have seen a great light, on those dwelling in a land overshadowed by death light has arisen.

From that time on, Jesus began to preach and say, “Repent, for the Kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

He went around all of Galilee, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom, and curing every disease and illness among the people.  His fame spread to all of Syria, and they brought to him all who were sick with various diseases and racked with pain, those who were possessed, lunatics, and paralytics, and he cured them. And great crowds from Galilee, the Decapolis, Jerusalem, and Judea, and from beyond the Jordan followed him. 

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

 The gospel reading for today speaks of Jesus’ actions after his baptism by John the Baptist and after learning of John’s arrest. Jesus began his ministry in the area around Capernaum, teaching and healing.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

 How has Christ’s presence in my life brought light?

Praying:

LORD, illuminate my mind, strengthen my faith, enlarge my heart so that I might better recognize You, trust You and love You. Amen.