Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: July 29, 2024

Date: Monday of 17th Week in Ordinary Time/Memorial of Martha, Mary & Lazarus

Scripture Text:  John 11:19-27

Many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them about their brother [Lazarus, who had died]. When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went to meet him; but Mary sat at home. Martha said to Jesus, "Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that whatever you ask of God, God will give you."

Jesus said to her, "Your brother will rise."

Martha said to him, "I know he will rise, in the resurrection on the last day."

Jesus told her, "I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and anyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?"

She said to him, "Yes, Lord. I have come to believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, the one who is coming into the world."

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel text of today recounts Jesus’ encounter with Martha following the death of her brother, Lazarus. The exchange between the two underscores Martha’s faith in Jesus and hope in the LORD.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I have the faith of Martha?

Praying:

LORD, Jesus Christ, You are the resurrection and the life. I believe that if I will come to You wholly, full of faith, hope and love, I will gain life in abundance with You. Guard me, LORD, from those shadows that doubt can cast upon my faith. Help me to proclaim You, Christ, Son of God, my Savior, in word and in deed. Amen.