Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: September 30, 2023

Date in the Ordine: The Memorial of St. Jerome

Scripture Text: Luke 9:43b-45

While they were all amazed at his every deed, Jesus said to his disciples, "Pay attention to what I am telling you. The Son of Man is to be handed over to men." But they did not understand this saying; its meaning was hidden from them so that they should not understand it, and they were afraid to ask him about this saying.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The short gospel text for today from the Gospel of Luke recounts Jesus’ second prediction of his arrest which would lead to his death and resurrection. However, the disciples were unable to understand what He was telling them, primarily because of their own expectations of the Messiah.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I sometimes fail to comprehend the call of Jesus and all it demands of me because of my own expectations of what that should be and how it should look?

Praying:

LORD, Jesus Christ, You came into our world and dwelt among us revealing the Father Almighty to us and giving us a model of life before You freely and selflessly offered yourself upon a cross to atone for our sins and reconcile us to the Father. On your earthly journey, You knew what was to come, and yet your love for the Father and for all of us fueled your life and your choices. You did not wish to die upon that cross. You prayed to the Father to let that cup pass. However, You surrendered to the will of the Father, “Yet not as I will, but as you will” (Mt. 26:39). Send your Spirit to tenderize our minds and hearts so that we are receptive to You and to the demands of your love. Grant that we may have the courage to go where You send us and to live as You call us. We pray this trusting and believing in You. Amen.