Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: September 30, 2024

Date: Memorial of St. Jerome

Scripture Text:  Luke 9:46-50

An argument arose among the disciples about which of them was the greatest. Jesus realized the intention of their hearts and took a child and placed it by his side and said to them, "Whoever receives this child in my name receives me, and whoever receives me receives the one who sent me. For the one who is least among all of you is the one who is the greatest."

Then John said in reply, "Master, we saw someone casting out demons in your name and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow in our company." Jesus said to him, "Do not prevent him, for whoever is not against you is for you."

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel text for today, drawn from the Gospel of Luke, recounts two conversations Jesus had with his disciples. The first involved rank and prestige. Jesus corrected his disciples’ way of thinking, suggesting that the greatest among us are those who serve out of love of the LORD. The second conversation involved prestige again, those known to be associates/disciples of Christ, pitted against those who are not. Jesus again corrected his disciples reminding them that one doing good in Jesus’ name is not to be stopped.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Am I prideful and arrogant? Do I worry more about who people think I am than who I am striving to be for love of the LORD? Do I dismiss the good in others and the good others do based on my own prejudices?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, You sent your only-begotten and beloved Son, Jesus Christ, to dwell among us as our brother and from among us to reveal your love for us. Salvation came to us from You, through Him, in the Spirit. Send your Spirit to stir within us the desire to live the life He calls us to as His disciples, the lives of humble servants filled with love for You. Grant that we may use our lives to love You through our words and deeds and to bring your love to others. We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns forever and ever. Amen.