Daily Gospel Reflection for January 7, 2022

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

Reflection by Connie Beckman

Today's Gospel: Luke 5:12-16

“He (Jesus) would withdraw to deserted places to pray.” Luke 5:16

I recall many years ago, I was desperately trying to quit smoking cigarettes. I was completely addicted and was a chain smoker. I tried all the helpful aids such as nicotine gum, nicotine patches, walking and exercising. These helped a little, but this insane addiction would overpower me and once again I would grab for a cigarette.

I began to pray to Jesus asking Him to remover the compulsion to smoke. I would beg and plead. Through many little successes and numerous failures, I continued to surrender to Jesus—"If You wish, You can make me clean.”

Over a period of months, my deepest desire to quit smoking overpowered my need to light up. Every day I would go to a quiet place to be with Jesus and rest in Him. Jesus gave me the strength and the determination coupled with His outpouring of grace to become an ex-smoker.

Praise be Jesus! I am free.

“So, if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:36

Ponder:

What do you need from Jesus today?

Pray:

Jesus, You know my deepest desire that is in my heart today. Jesus, I need to spend some quiet time today with You, so You can fill me with Your healing love.

Click to tweet:
Jesus stretched out his hand, touched him, and said, “I do will it. Be made clean.” #dailygospel

Copyright 2022 Connie Beckman

Connie Beckman resides in Helena, Montana, with her husband and is a member of Saints Cyril & Methodius Parish. Her desire as a writer is to encourage Catholic spiritual growth by sharing the truths of the faith through the written word addressing a variety of subjects. Connie shares her joy and love of God at her website, www.conniescatholiccorner.com.