Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: November 13, 2024

Date: Memorial of St. Francis Xavier Cabrini

Scripture Text: Titus 3:1-7

Beloved:

Remind them to be under the control of magistrates and authorities, to be obedient, to be open to every good enterprise. They are to slander no one, to be peaceable, considerate, exercising all graciousness toward everyone. For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, deluded, slaves to various desires and pleasures, living in malice and envy, hateful ourselves and hating one another. But when the kindness and generous love of God our savior appeared, not because of any righteous deeds we had done but because of his mercy, he saved us through the bath of rebirth and renewal by the Holy Spirit, whom he richly poured out on us through Jesus Christ our savior, so that we might be justified by his grace and become heirs in hope of eternal life.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The first reading today from the Letter of Paul to Titus, a leading disciple if Crete, directs Titus on the proper conduct for disciples of Christ, “exercising all graciousness toward everyone.” This means obeying the local laws, being good and authentically kind and loving neighbors. Paul reminds Titus of the LORD’s salvation in the Spirit through Christ which we did not earn but received because of the LORD’s loving mercy.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I treat all respectfully, with loving kindness, regardless of their status or position? Do I recognize the LORD saved me even though I did not earn it?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, send your Spirit to tenderize our minds and hearts to your love and your will that we be loving daughters and sons. Grant that we may exercise all graciousness toward everyone in your name for love of You. Let us fully and lovingly acknowledge your beloved Son’s sacrifice for us even though we’d done nothing to earn it. May we be justified by grace. We ask this in the name of your only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Spirit, one LORD, forever and ever. Amen.