Daily Gospel Reflection for September 26, 2015

Today's Gospel: Luke 9:43B-45

Optional Memorial of Saints Cosmas and Damian, Martyrs

Optional Memorial of the Blessed Virgin Mary

Today’s gospel passage is brief yet profound. The disciples had just witnessed an amazing miracle as Jesus healed a young boy possessed by a demon. Luke tells us that they were astonished, marveling at Jesus’s every deed. They saw his actions and recognized the power of God in them.

As they stood marveling, Jesus taught them about what would happen to them, beginning to give them a foreshadowing of his passion and death. But Luke tells us that even though they did not fully understand what Jesus was telling them, they knew enough to be fearful.

Truly following Christ in those days was a frightening prospect. And while we face nothing of the persecution those early Christians knew in their time, a devout follower in today’s world might also have reason for fear. We are set apart. Our lives look different from many other members of society. We are called to choices and decisions that can leave us subject to scorn and derision.

In today’s gospel passage, we read that Jesus said, “Pay attention to what I am telling you.” In our own fear and challenges, we too should “pay attention.” God gives us all that we need to be bold and brave in our discipleship.

Ponder:

Are you ever afraid to speak up as a follower of Christ? How might you strengthen yourself to witness to the truth despite your fear?

Pray:

Jesus, I am amazed by the power of your love, yet I too often waiver in my own courage to testify to the truth. Embolden me today that I may attend to what you taught and share your love courageously and with conviction.

We thank our friends at The Word Among Us for providing our gospel reflection team with copies of Abide In My Word 2015: Mass Readings at Your Fingertips. To pray the daily gospels with this wonderful resource, visit The Word Among Us.

Copyright 2015 Lisa Hendey