Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: October 9, 2024

Date: Wednesday of the 27th Week in Ordinary Time/Optional Memorial of St. John Leonardi

Scripture Text:  2 Corinthians 4:1-2, 5-7

Brothers and sisters:

Since we have this ministry through the mercy shown us, we are not discouraged. Rather, we have renounced shameful, hidden things; not acting deceitfully or falsifying the word of God,but by the open declaration of the truth we commend ourselves to everyone's conscience in the sight of God. For we do not preach ourselves but Jesus Christ as Lord, and ourselves as your slaves for the sake of Jesus. For God who said, Let light shine out of darkness, has shone in our hearts to bring to light the knowledge of the glory of God on the face of Jesus Christ.But we hold this treasure in earthen vessels, that the surpassing power may be of God and not from us.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The first reading for the option Memorial of St. John Leonardi is the opening of the 4th chapter of Paul’s 2nd Letter to the Corinthians. In this passage, Paul speaks of his ministry of preaching the gospel, not for himself but for Christ. His ministry is illuminated by the light of “the knowledge of the glory of God on the face of Jesus Christ.” And he humbly credits the “light” as that of Christ while acknowledging his own humanity and imperfections.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I let the Light of Christ shine through me? Do I recognize Christ’s light in others though they are not perfect?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, it is your will that we be one, united as sisters and brothers of Christ, your beloved and only begotten Son. As His disciples, grant that we may bring His light to the world, His light that reveals the depth and breadth of your love for us and your desire that we have life in abundance with You. Send your Spirit to stir the fire of your love so that we might be better disciples, so that we might “bring to light the knowledge of the glory of God on the face of Jesus Christ.” Guard us as seek to spread the good news in the world. We ask this in the name of your beloved Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Spirit, one LORD, forever and ever. Amen.