Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: November 18, 2024

Date: Monday of the 33rd Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text: Revelation 1:1-4; 2:1-5

The revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave to him, to show his servants what must happen soon. He made it known by sending his angel to his servant John, who gives witness to the word of God and to the testimony of Jesus Christ by reporting what he saw. Blessed is the one who reads aloud and blessed are those who listen to this prophetic message and heed what is written in it, for the appointed time is near.

John, to the seven churches in Asia: grace to you and peace from him who is and who was and who is to come, and from the seven spirits before his throne.

I heard the Lord saying to me: “To the angel of the Church in Ephesus, write this: “‘The one who holds the seven stars in his right hand and walks in the midst of the seven gold lampstands says this: “I know your works, your labor, and your endurance, and that you cannot tolerate the wicked; you have tested those who call themselves Apostles but are not, and discovered that they are impostors. Moreover, you have endurance and have suffered for my name, and you have not grown weary. Yet I hold this against you: you have lost the love you had at first. Realize how far you have fallen. Repent, and do the works you did at first. Otherwise, I will come to you and remove your lampstand from its place, unless you repent.”’”

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The first reading for today is drawn from the final book of the Bible, the Revelation of John. Today’s text gives us the beginning of the book, explaining that it is the revelation of Christ shared with John who was to share it with the Church. The second part contains the first letter of seven to a church community, specifically to the Church in Ephesus. It begins Jesus portrayed as holding 7 stars in his right hand which symbolizes His power over the 7 churches symbolized by the 7 gold lampstands – instruments of the LORD’s light in the world. The Church in Ephesus is praised for its works and endurance and recognition of those truly sent by Christ. And while it is also praised for its endurance and willingness to suffer for Christ, it is warned of the cost of fading love and zeal. “Do the works you did at first” the community is told.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Has my zeal and love for the LORD grown lukewarm?

Praying:

LORD, Always and everywhere your love is, your love creates, your love guides, your love empowers and transforms. Your love never wavers; your love never fades. Father, Son, and Spirit, stir my mind, my heart, my soul with your creative and redemptive love. Transform me. As the fire of your love roars, grant that my love will forever remain as both the reason for my journey and the fuel that keeps me on my path home to You. Let the light of my love shine forth lighting the way for others in your name and for your glory. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.