Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: September 17, 2024

Date: Tuesday of the 24th Week in Ordinary Time

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 text today brings us Luke account of Jesus’ raising of the widow of Nain’s only son. The text reveals many things to us. First, Jesus’ compassion and pity for the widow. Secondly, Jesus actions on behalf of the widow, His intervention for her. Thirdly, the crowds’ words, “God has visited his people.” We are urged through this reading to consider the love of the LORD revealed to us in Christ and through Christ and to recognize daily that “God has visited his people.”

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I recognize the LORD’s power and presence at work in my life, in my world? Do I trust in the LORD’s love for me regardless of what is happening in my world and to my world?

Praying:

LORD, Jesus Christ, only begotten Son of God, my brother, my teacher, my savior, your love stirs within me and transforms me, bringing me to life in You, with You, and through You. I look upon the crucifix and meditate upon your compassion for me and for all sinners and in awe recognize the gift of self You gave upon that cross for me and for all humanity. Your love for me, LORD, is not in vain. Send your Spirit to guide me in my response to your love, to help me to pick up my own cross and to follow You wherever You may lead me. Amen.