Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: July 15, 2025

Date: Memorial of St. Bonaventure

Scripture Text:  Matthew 11:20-24

Jesus began to reproach the towns where most of his mighty deeds had been done, since they had not repented. "Woe to you, Chorazin! Woe to you, Bethsaida! For if the mighty deeds done in your midsthad been done in Tyre and Sidon, they would long ago have repented in sackcloth and ashes. But I tell you, it will be more tolerable for Tyre and Sidon on the day of judgment than for you.

And as for you, Capernaum:

Will you be exalted to heaven?

You will go down to the netherworld.

For if the mighty deeds done in your midst had been done in Sodom, it would have remained until this day. But I tell you, it will be more tolerable for the land of Sodom on the day of judgment than for you."

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel text today recounts Jesus’ reproach of those who had hardened their hearts to His power and presence in their midst, refusing to heed His call to repent because the Kingdom of God was at hand. Jesus links the fate of these people to that of the pagan cities that were destroyed because of their sinful ways.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

How attentive am I being to Christ’s power and presence in my life, my world? Am I living a life that would convey to others a conversion of heart to follow Jesus?

Praying:

LORD, Jesus Christ, Son of God, Savior. I do believe. Help my unbelief. Send your Spirit to stir within me the fire of your love and the might of your truth so that I might boldly pick up my cross and follow You. Amen.