Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: October 23, 2025

Date: Thursday of the 29^th Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text:  Luke 12:49-53

Jesus said to his disciples:

"I have come to set the earth on fire, and how I wish it were already blazing! There is a baptism with which I must be baptized, and how great is my anguish until it is accomplished! Do you think that I have come to establish peace on the earth? No, I tell you, but rather division. From now on a household of five will be divided, three against two and two against three; a father will be divided against his sonand a son against his father, a mother against her daughter and a daughter against her mother, a mother-in-law against her daughter-in-law and a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law."

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

Today’s gospel reading can at first glance surprise us because it sounds unlike Christ’s teaching for peace and unity. That surprise should alert us to the need to look more closely. The “fire” that Jesus speaks of is that of his love and of the Holy Spirit. The baptism He speaks of is His own crucifixion for our salvation. And from that day forward, we may see division between those who accept Him as Son of God, our Savior, and those who reject Him.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Does my heart burn within me when I contemplate Christ and His love for me and for the Father?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, You sent your only-begotten Son to us, to all of humanity, as the divine instrument of salvation. His teachings and His examples remain with us still, but it is His selfless sacrifice upon the cross of Calvary for love of You and love of us that sets our hearts on fire. Send your Spirit to stir that fire of love for your beloved Son within us and to strengthen our resolve to choose Him and “the way and the truth and the life” this day and always. We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus, who lives and reigns with You and the Spirit, one LORD, forever and ever. Amen.