Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: September 16, 2025

Date: Memorial of Saints Cornelius and Cyprian

Scripture Text: Luke 7:11-17

Jesus journeyed to a city called Nain, and his disciples and a large crowd accompanied him. As he drew near to the gate of the city, a man who had died was being carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow. A large crowd from the city was with her. When the Lord saw her, he was moved with pity for her and said to her, “Do not weep.” He stepped forward and touched the coffin; at this the bearers halted, and he said, “Young man, I tell you, arise!” The dead man sat up and began to speak, and Jesus gave him to his mother. Fear seized them all, and they glorified God, exclaiming, “A great prophet has arisen in our midst,” and “God has visited his people.” This report about him spread through the whole of Judea and in all the surrounding region.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel reading for today recounts Jesus’ raising of the only son of a widow in Nain. We are struck with Jesus’ compassion for the woman and His authority over the living and the dead.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

How compassionate am I really? Does it go more deeply than “so sad”? Do I allow it to not only inform me but spur me to action?

Praying:

LORD, Jesus Christ, Son of God, our Savior, we lift our hearts to You this day, confident that You see us and that You love us. Send the Spirit to stir within us and strengthen our resolve to live the life You call us to live, a life marked by love of our Almighty Father and love for one another. Grant that we may bring your transformative love with us as we pick up our own crosses, deny ourselves, and follow in your footsteps. Amen.