Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: October 18, 2023

Date in the Ordine: Wednesday of the 28th Week in Ordinary Time, Feast of St. Luke

Scripture Text: Luke 10:1-9

The Lord Jesus appointed seventy-two disciples whom he sent ahead of him in pairs to every town and place he intended to visit. He said to them, "The harvest is abundant, but the laborers are few; so ask the master of the harvest to send out laborers for his harvest. Go on your way; behold, I am sending you like lambs among wolves. Carry no money bag, no sack, no sandals; and greet no one along the way. Into whatever house you enter, first say, 'Peace to this household.' If a peaceful person lives there, your peace will rest on him; but if not, it will return to you. Stay in the same house and eat and drink what is offered to you, for the laborer deserves payment. Do not move about from one house to another. Whatever town you enter, and they welcome you, eat what is set before you, cure the sick in it and say to them, 'The Kingdom of God is at hand for you.'"

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel today recounts Jesus’ sending forth of 72 disciples to bring the good news that “The Kingdom of God is at hand.” He sent them forth in pairs, companioning one another along the way, realizing that the way would be difficult. Before sending them, Jesus gives instructions as to how they are to travel light, trusting in the provisions of the LORD and others. Jesus tells the disciples He is sending them “like lambs before wolves,” so they recognize that others will not necessarily welcome them, others will not necessarily treat them well.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I assume that others will treat me well because I am a believer, a Christian? Do I carry the good news of Jesus Christ where I go?

Praying:

LORD, Jesus Christ, we seek to follow in your footsteps as we make our journey in life. Send your Spirit to strengthen our resolve to live as You commanded us, to stay firm in our faith, and to share that faith with others along the way. Grant that we may show courage when encountering resistance to your love and even hatred. Make of us faithful, hopeful and loving disciples. Amen.