Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: July 9, 2024

Date: Tuesday of the 14th Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text:  Mt 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 recounts Jesus’ healing of a man possessed as well as others with diseases and illness as He traveled from town-to-town teaching and proclaiming the Kingdom of God. Jesus’ compassion for the suffering of others is highlighted even though His critics accused Him of being an agent of Satan.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Am I bringing my needs and myself to Christ? Do I seek wholeness and peace from my Savior? In my suffering, am I aware of the suffering of others?

Praying:

LORD, your loving care and mercy for me and for my needs and my suffering give me confidence to bring my needs and those of others to You. May your power and presence in my life, manifestations of your great love, be a sign to others. Make of me a messenger of your love bringing hope to others. Help me to recognize my role in your ongoing mission and embrace it with enthusiasm, faith, hope, and love.