Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: November 21, 2024

Date: Memorial of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Scripture Text: Revelation 5:1-10

I, John, saw a scroll in the right hand of the one who sat on the throne. It had writing on both sides and was sealed with seven seals. Then I saw a mighty angel who proclaimed in a loud voice, “Who is worthy to open the scroll and break its seals?” But no one in heaven or on earth or under the earth was able to open the scroll or to examine it. I shed many tears because no one was found worthy to open the scroll or to examine it. One of the elders said to me, “Do not weep. The lion of the tribe of Judah, the root of David, has triumphed, enabling him to open the scroll with its seven seals.”

Then I saw standing in the midst of the throne and the four living creatures and the elders a Lamb that seemed to have been slain. He had seven horns and seven eyes; these are the seven spirits of God sent out into the whole world. He came and received the scroll from the right hand of the one who sat on the throne. When he took it, the four living creatures and the twenty-four elders fell down before the Lamb. Each of the elders held a harp and gold bowls filled with incense, which are the prayers of the holy ones.

They sang a new hymn:

“Worthy are you to receive the scroll and break open its seals, for you were slain and with your Blood you purchased for God those from every tribe and tongue, people and nation. You made them a kingdom and priests for our God, and they will reign on earth.”

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The first reading for today is taken from Revelation and recounts one of John’s visions, that of the scroll of salvation and the Lamb representing Jesus Christ. The hymn of those assembled around the throne of the Almighty Father tells us the point of the vision; Jesus Christ’s selfless sacrifice for the salvation of all humanity.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I accept Jesus Christ’s redeeming act for my salvation? Do I recognize Christ acting in my life?

Praying:

LORD, Jesus Christ, your love of the Father and love for us were the reason for your selfless sacrifice upon the cross of Calvary. Send the Spirit to kindle in me the fire of your divine love and let it illuminate my mind, warm my heart, and guide my life. 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.