Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: November 13, 2023

Date in the Ordine: Memorial of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini

Scripture Text: Wisdom 1:1-7

Love justice, you who judge the earth; think of the Lord in goodness, and seek him in integrity of heart; Because he is found by those who test him not, and he manifests himself to those who do not disbelieve him. For perverse counsels separate a man from God, and his power, put to the proof, rebukes the foolhardy; Because into a soul that plots evil, wisdom enters not, nor dwells she in a body under debt of sin. For the holy Spirit of discipline flees deceit and withdraws from senseless counsels; and when injustice occurs it is rebuked. For wisdom is a kindly spirit, yet she acquits not the blasphemer of his guilty lips; Because God is the witness of his inmost self and the sure observer of his heart and the listener to his tongue. For the Spirit of the Lord fills the world, is all-embracing, and knows what man says.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The first reading for today comes to us from the Book of Wisdom and gives us profound insights into the life of a believer. It begins with loving justice which means loving right relationships with one another, treating others as we ourselves would want to be treated, with loving kindness and mercy. The text also gives us insights into building our relationship with our LORD, seeking to grow and strengthen that relationship through faith, hope and love.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I focus on building relationships with the LORD and others? Do I seek the help of the Spirit of “fills the world” with grace, the graces I need for this journey?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, we come to You this day full of a desire to strengthen our relationship with You and with our sisters and brothers, your daughters and sons, those whom your beloved Son died to redeem. Send your Spirit to strengthen our resolve to live as You created us to live and as your Son calls us to live as his disciples. Bless us with the graces necessary to grow in faith, to increase our hope, and to purify and enlarge our love. 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.