Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: July 21, 2024

Date: 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text:  Mk 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 he 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 shows us Jesus’ care for his disciples and for those who came to him. The text shows Jesus as a “Good Shepherd,” even though it does not use that title. Jesus knows those who come to Him, He knows their needs, and He tends to them. We see this in trying to give the apostles rest and in teaching the crowds who sought Him out.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I open myself to Jesus’ tending? Do I allow Jesus to Shepherd me?

Praying:

LORD, Jesus Christ, truly You are the Good Shepherd who knows your sheep. Time and again You have come for me when I was lost. You have tended to me when I was in need. Your words and Your voice within me bring me a peace that surpasses understanding. And yet I know that all is because of your love for me. Send your Spirit to open me fully to You, to your presence, to your love. Amen.