Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: July 8, 2025

Date: Tuesday of the 14^th Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text:  Matthew 9:32-38

A demoniac who could not speak was brought to Jesus, and when the demon was driven out the mute man spoke. The crowds were amazed and said, “Nothing like this has ever been seen in Israel.” But the Pharisees said, “He drives out demons by the prince of demons.”

Jesus went around to all the towns and villages, teaching in their synagogues, proclaiming the Gospel of the Kingdom, and curing every disease and illness. At the sight of the crowds, his heart was moved with pity for them because they were troubled and abandoned, like sheep without a shepherd. Then he said to his disciples, “The harvest is abundant, but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest.”

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel for today speaks of Jesus’ exorcism and healing of a man possessed by a demon. While those who witnessed the miracle were amazed, the Pharisees ridiculously accused Jesus of using the power of Satan to drive out the demon.

The text goes on to share Jesus’ mission as it unfolded across towns and villages, teaching and healing. And Jesus’ compassion is noted; He was moved by what He saw and the people who came to Him in need. He appealed to the disciples to pray for “laborers” in His mission.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I dismiss Jesus’ power in my life? Have I given myself to Jesus and His ongoing mission in the world? Am I a committed “laborer”?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, we turn to You this day, our Father and LORD, with hearts full of love and thanksgiving. With humility we ask that You send the Spirit to arouse in us the courage and resolve to accept Your beloved Son’s invitation to follow Him, to labor for the Kingdom, to bring Him to others and others to Him. We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Spirit, one LORD, forever and ever. Amen.