Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: November 10, 2024

Date: 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text: Mark 12:38-44

In the course of his teaching Jesus said to the crowds, "Beware of the scribes, who like to go around in long robes and accept greetings in the marketplaces, seats of honor in synagogues, and places of honor at banquets. They devour the houses of widows and, as a pretext, recite lengthy prayers. They will receive a very severe condemnation."

He sat down opposite the treasury and observed how the crowd put money into the treasury. Many rich people put in large sums. A poor widow also came and put in two small coins worth a few cents. Calling his disciples to himself, he said to them, "Amen, I say to you, this poor widow put in more than all the other contributors to the treasury. For they have all contributed from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has contributed all she had, her whole livelihood."

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel for today recounts Jesus’ lesson on the dangers of appearance. First, He pointed out those who appeared to be “holy” by their actions but whose motives were not and then He pointed to one’s whose contribution seemed insignificant compared to that of others but sacrificially speaking was not. Both challenge us to look at our motives for our words and deeds as well as our willingness to sacrifice for love of the LORD.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

How deep does my faith truly run? Is it simply superficial and for show? Am I willing to make true sacrifices for love of the LORD and others without selfish desire?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, You are love itself, and from love You created us to love – to love You with all our being and strength and to love one another. Love is your divine design. Love is your demand of us. You sent your only begotten Son into the world as our brother, human in nature, to reveal your great love for us and to show us through word and action “the Way and the Truth and the Life.” And through His selfless sacrifice upon the cross of Calvary, He revealed to us love in perfection, a redeeming love. Send your Spirit to kindle in us the fire of your love and to refine us so that we might grow into the daughters and sons You created us be, daughters and sons who seek to love You with all our being and to love one another. 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.