Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: November 15, 2023

Date in the Ordine: Wednesday of the 32nd Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text: Wisdom 6:1-11

Hear, O kings, and understand; learn, you magistrates of the earth's expanse! Hearken, you who are in power over the multitude and lord it over throngs of peoples! Because authority was given you by the Lord and sovereignty by the Most High, who shall probe your works and scrutinize your counsels. Because, though you were ministers of his kingdom, you judged not rightly, and did not keep the law, nor walk according to the will of God, terribly and swiftly shall he come against you, because judgment is stern for the exalted– For the lowly may be pardoned out of mercy but the mighty shall be mightily put to the test. For the Lord of all shows no partiality, nor does he fear greatness, because he himself made the great as well as the small, and he provides for all alike; but for those in power a rigorous scrutiny impends. To you, therefore, O princes, are my words addressed that you may learn wisdom and that you may not sin. For those who keep the holy precepts hallowed shall be found holy, and those learned in them will have ready a response. Desire therefore my words; long for them and you shall be instructed.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The first reading today continues our readings from the Book of Wisdom. The text speaks of the obligation of those in power and those with authority to act justly and to serve the LORD well. We are reminded of Jesus’ words to us, “for unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required” (Luke 12:48).

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I recognize the obligation within the gifts of the Spirit to cooperate with the Spirit, to embrace the gifts, and to use them without expectation of reward from others or of prestige? Can I humbly put on the apron of servant and joyfully use my gifts for the LORD’s glory and the good of others?

Praying:

LORD, who are we that You care so for us and gift us moment to moment with your love and your presence? Who are we that You care for us and about us? Who are we that You gift us with talents and skills that will benefit not only us but others? Send your Spirit, LORD, to open us to the possibilities of life in You, to the potential possible from the use of our talents and skills for your glory and the good of others. Grant that we may, through your grace, make our way to eternal life from You, through You, and in You. Amen.