Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: November 20, 2023

Date in the Ordine: Monday of the 33rd Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text: Luke 18:35-43

As Jesus approached Jericho a blind man was sitting by the roadside begging, and hearing a crowd going by, he inquired what was happening. They told him, "Jesus of Nazareth is passing by." He shouted, "Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me!" The people walking in front rebuked him, telling him to be silent, but he kept calling out all the more, "Son of David, have pity on me!" Then Jesus stopped and ordered that he be brought to him; and when he came near, Jesus asked him, "What do you want me to do for you?" He replied, "Lord, please let me see." Jesus told him, "Have sight; your faith has saved you." He immediately received his sight and followed him, giving glory to God. When they saw this, all the people gave praise to God.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel text for today gives us the account of Jesus’ healing of the blind man of Jericho as recounted in the Gospel of Luke. The man, upon hearing that Jesus was near, cried out loudly, “Jesus, Son of David, have pity on me.” While others shushed him, it was to no avail. He would not stop. Jesus heard his persistent cries and ordered that the man be brought to him. When asked what he wanted of Jesus, the man replied simply, “Lord, please let me see.” Jesus compassionately responded with healing, telling the man that his faith had saved him. And the man with his sight restored followed Jesus and gave glory to the LORD.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I recognize the nearness of Christ? Do I call out to Christ for help in my life? Am I persistent in my faith and in my prayer?

Praying:

LORD, Jesus, Son of God, have mercy on us. Help us as we journey through this life to life in abundance with You. Send your Spirit to give us the vision to discern your will for us as your disciples and the courage to speak up and to speak out as needed. Strengthen our resolve and perseverance so that our lives may give glory to the Father Almighty. 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.