Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: May24, 2025

Saturday of the 5th Week of Easter

Scripture Text:  John 15:18-21

Jesus said to his disciples: "If the world hates you, realize that it hated me first. If you belonged to the world, the world would love its own; but because you do not belong to the world, and I have chosen you out of the world, the world hates you. Remember the word I spoke to you, 'No slave is greater than his master.' If they persecuted me, they will also persecute you. If they kept my word, they will also keep yours. And they will do all these things to you on account of my name, because they do not know the one who sent me."

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

In today’s gospel, Jesus, in His “Final Discourse” to the disciples before his arrest, crucifixion, and death, warns them of the hardships and challenges they will face as His disciples including persecution.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Am I prepared to face persecution for love of Christ?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, as we look upon the crucifix and recognize the price your beloved Son paid for loving You and loving us, we would be foolish to believe that following in His footsteps would be easy. Clearly, love isn’t easy. Send your Spirit to stir within us, to increase our ability to love well and love long, the desire to be the daughters and sons You created us to be, instruments of your love and peace in this world. Grant that we will have the strength and courage to face the challenges we will face in seeking to live as disciples of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ. We ask this in the name of Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with You and the Spirit, one LORD, forever and ever. Amen.