Daily Gospel Reflection for November 9, 2021

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Today's Gospel: Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome - John 2:13-22

One of our daughters, who is on the autism spectrum, faced a trying time of difficulties at the beginning of last school year. Along with emotional issues, she was having a hard time transitioning back into school and became depressed and withdrawn. Because of her suffering and hardship, and because I felt she was misunderstood, I had an intense emotional reaction to what she was going through and was driven to action. I did everything in my power to ease her suffering and intervened at school to try and make her situation better. Because I love her so much, I became zealous to defend her cause with the school faculty and administration.

Zeal can be defined as “love in action.” In today’s Gospel scene, Jesus cleanses the temple from the salesmen and money changers who were misusing it. His passion and zeal for the House of God were aroused and His reaction was strong and intense. The disciples recalled the words of scripture, “Zeal for your house will consume me,” as they witnessed Jesus’ reaction.

Jesus was not passive or lukewarm about Kingdom of God, but rather, He was always passionate and ardently devoted to preaching, teaching, and healing, and to doing the will of the Father. Similarly, Jesus reminds us that we, too, must labor zealously for the Kingdom and not grow lax or weary. We are reminded by this passage that, as Jesus became indignant when he cleansed the Temple, there are times when we are to stand up against injustices and to right wrongs. We should be courageous when these times arise and when we are called to take a stand for what is right.

Ponder:

How can we conquer our own lukewarmness in the faith and become more zealous for the Kingdom of God?

Pray:

Lord, as Your zeal for the Father’s house inspired You to rise up and cleanse the Temple, increase our love for You and fill us with zeal and the Holy Spirit. Help us to follow You more closely and give us courage to stand for truth and righteousness.