Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: October 7, 2023

Date in the Ordine: Memorial of Our Lady of the Rosary

Scripture Text: Luke 10:17-24

The seventy-two disciples returned rejoicing and said to Jesus, "Lord, even the demons are subject to us because of your name." Jesus said, "I have observed Satan fall like lightning from the sky. Behold, I have given you the power 'to tread upon serpents' and scorpions and upon the full force of the enemy and nothing will harm you. Nevertheless, do not rejoice because the spirits are subject to you, but rejoice because your names are written in heaven." At that very moment he rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, "I give you praise, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike. Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will. All things have been handed over to me by my Father. No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him." Turning to the disciples in private he said, "Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. For I say to you, many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, but did not see it, and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it."

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel text for today recounts the return of the 72 disciples to Jesus as recorded in the Gospel of Luke. Upon their return, they reported on the powers they exercised while on mission in Christ’s name. Jesus promises them a heavenly reward for their efforts. Jesus goes on to praise the Father for working through the disciples. He ends by reminding us that it is through Him, Jesus Christ, that we come to know the Father who sent Him.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I believe in the power at Christ in work in me when I am serving in His name?

Praying:

LORD, You call us as your disciples and, through the Spirit, equip us for your mission here on earth. Strengthen our resolve to live and serve as your disciples, to labor in your ongoing salvific mission. Grant that we may serve well, love well, along our journey to life in You, with You, and through You. Amen.