Daily Gospel Reflection for January 6, 2025

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

Today's Gospel: Matthew 4:12-17, 23-25

John the Baptist, the forerunner of the Lord, has been arrested. No doubt Jesus’ heart broke at this news and its implications. While He withdrew to Capernaum for a time, Matthew’s account details how He didn’t stay distant for long. He returned to preach, proclaim the Gospel, and heal those who were brought to Him. His fame grew as great crowds followed Him.

What caught my attention in the Gospel today was Jesus’ actions in the wake of this distressing news. Though He withdrew for a time, He continued on, pouring Himself out for others that they might believe and the Father be glorified. Can we say this about our own lives? How easy it is to turn inward in times of distress, to block out the world so we can fully address or process our pain. This is certainly an acceptable response; we see very clearly today how Jesus did just that.

But it even in the midst of His grief and suffering, Jesus did not allow His ministry to be stunted or dimmed. He continued on, pouring Himself into His ministry and manifesting the healing love and mercy of the Father to all in need. May Jesus be our model and guide today.

“Whatever you ask in my name I will do it, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.” John 14:13

Ponder:

What's a concrete, tangible way you can serve others in the midst of adversity or pain?

Pray:

Lord, help us to follow Your example to love and serve others, especially when we are distressed and tempted to turn inward. Open our hearts to receive the Holy Spirit, and let that same Spirit guide our efforts to show forth Your love to the world.

Daily Gospel 2