Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: June 25, 2024

Date: Tuesday of the 12th Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text:  Matthew 7:6, 12-14

Jesus said to his disciples: “Do not give what is holy to dogs, or throw your pearls before swine, lest they trample them underfoot, and turn and tear you to pieces.

“Do to others whatever you would have them do to you. This is the Law and the Prophets.

“Enter through the narrow gate; for the gate is wide and the road broad that leads to destruction, and those who enter through it are many. How narrow the gate and constricted the road that leads to life. And those who find it are few.”

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel reading for today is taken from the final chapter of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount in Matthew. Jesus shines a light on how precious our lives and love are, calling them “holy.” He reminds us of the law concerning our treatment of one another – always as we ourselves desire to be treated. And finally, Jesus cautions us, telling us “how narrow the gate and constricted the road that leads to life.” A life focused on love for the LORD and one another rules out so many choices.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Am I using the life I have been given for the purpose for which it was given to me? Will my legacy be love?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, Beloved Son, Most Holy Spirit, I lift my voice to You in praise for all You are and thanksgiving for all I am because of You. Fill me with your love and allow it to inform my mind, conform my will, and transform my heart for a life as the one You created me to be and the disciple You call me to be. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.