Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: March 26, 2025

Wednesday of the 3rd Week of Lent

Scripture Text: Deuteronomy 4:1, 5-9

Moses spoke to the people and said:

"Now, Israel, hear the statutes and decrees which I am teaching you to observe, that you may live, and may enter in and take possession of the land which the LORD, the God of your fathers, is giving you. Therefore, I teach you the statutes and decrees as the LORD, my God, has commanded me, that you may observe them in the land you are entering to occupy. Observe them carefully, for thus will you give evidence of your wisdom and intelligence to the nations, who will hear of all these statutes and say, 'This great nation is truly a wise and intelligent people.' For what great nation is there that has gods so close to it as the LORD, our God, is to us whenever we call upon him? Or what great nation has statutes and decrees that are as just as this whole law which I am setting before you today?

"However, take care and be earnestly on your guard not to forget the things which your own eyes have seen, nor let them slip from your memory as long as you live, but teach them to your children and to your children's children."

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

In the first reading from Deuteronomy, Moses exhorts the people of Israel to not only hear but also live the statutes and decrees of the LORD and to teach them to their children. These laws and their exodus experience both demonstrate the LORD’s loving power and presence in their lives.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

How do I think of the LORD’s law? Do I see it as a loving path to life with the LORD?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, Beloved Son, Most Holy Spirit, You created our world and us in it, You gave of yourself lovingly for our redemption, and You stir within us to give us the graces we need in order to live this life as we journey home to life in You. Always and everywhere your love for us abounds, especially in your law that give us a path to a deeper relationship with You and one another. Grant that we may embrace your law and seek to live your law of love – loving You with all our being and one another. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, who is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.