Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: September 9, 2024

Date: Monday of the 22nd Week in Ordinary Time/Memorial of St. Peter Claver

Scripture Text:  Luke 6:6-11

On a certain sabbath Jesus went into the synagogue and taught, and there was a man there whose right hand was withered. The scribes and the Pharisees watched him closely to see if he would cure on the sabbath so that they might discover a reason to accuse him. But he realized their intentions and said to the man with the withered hand, "Come up and stand before us." And he rose and stood there. Then Jesus said to them, "I ask you, is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it?" Looking around at them all, he then said to him, "Stretch out your hand." He did so and his hand was restored. But they became enraged and discussed together, what they might do to Jesus.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel for today presents Luke’s account of Jesus’ healing of a man with a withered hand on the Sabbath. Jesus, aware of the presence of those in authority who were looking for a reason to discredit Him and His work and teaching, put a question to them: “Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it?” We notice that they did not respond. They knew the answer was to do good and save life regardless of the day of the week. Jesus knew their intention, but He acted with loving compassion regardless of their malice toward him.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I hesitate doing good, saving life because of fear of other’s judgment? Is my love for the LORD and all His children stronger than my desire for acceptance or fear of others’ judgment?

Praying:

LORD, always and everywhere your power and presence penetrate our world, our lives, us. Help me, LORD, to prayerfully discern your will in the moments of my journey and give me the courage to act always as You will without fear of others’ judgment or acceptance. Grant that I may seek always to do good and to save life as an instrument of your love here on earth. I ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Spirit, one LORD, forever and ever. Amen.