Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: September 27, 2023

Date in the Ordine: Memorial of St. Vincent de Paul

Scripture Text: Luke 9:1-6

Jesus summoned the Twelve and gave them power and authority over all demons and to cure diseases, and he sent them to proclaim the Kingdom of God and to heal the sick. He said to them, "Take nothing for the journey, neither walking stick, nor sack, nor food, nor money, and let no one take a second tunic. Whatever house you enter, stay there and leave from there. And as for those who do not welcome you, when you leave that town, shake the dust from your feet in testimony against them." Then they set out and went from village to village proclaiming the good news and curing diseases everywhere.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel text for today gives us the account of Jesus’ sending forth of the Twelve to teach and to heal according to the Gospel of Luke. As modern disciples, it should cause us to pause and ask ourselves how we are conducting ourselves. Do we recognize that not everyone will welcome us? Do we trust in the LORD’s providence, or do we need to surround ourselves with “extras”? Do we proclaim the Kingdom to others or are we content to keep it to ourselves?

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Am I a true disciple of Christ or simply one who associates myself with Christianity? Do I seek to bring Christ to others and others to Christ? Do I bring the needs of others to Christ prayerfully?

Praying:

LORD, Jesus Christ, Son of God, You came into the world so that we might have life and you selflessly laid your own life down upon a cross for ours. You revealed the love of Father Almighty to us and the gift of the Spirit who will be our Advocate. You call us daily to deny ourselves, to pick up our crosses and to follow You. Send your Spirit to strengthen our resolve to live as the daughters and sons we were created to be and as the disciples You call us to be. Infuse us with your transformative love so that we might proclaim the Kingdom with fervor. Guide us on our way home. Amen.