Daily Gospel Reflection for March 23, 2024

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

Today's Gospel: John 11:45-56

“Ouch!” is often my first thought when presented with a cross. I recoil, thinking I won’t be able to bear the pain. Yet, I know the good God would never present me with a cross I could not carry. What’s more, He is more than willing to help me with whatever burdens I bear. It’s a comforting thought, knowing that the Almighty is at my side.

It seems incomprehensible that anyone would want Jesus to die. After all, He had cured the sick, fed the thousands, and even raised the dead. As the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops notes, the raising of Lazarus led directly to the Sanhedrin’s decision to kill Jesus. They perceived Jesus’ ministry to be a threat that had to be eliminated.

The hard truth is that, every time we sin, it is as if we are hammering another nail into Jesus’ body. For it was to free us from our sins that He died on the cross. This is why we as Catholics display the crucifix. We need to be constantly reminded of the price Jesus paid for our failings.

I remember attending a retreat when I was in middle school. At one point, our teacher invited us to gaze on the crucifix, at which point I silently poured out my soul to Jesus. I was struck by the knowledge that I had harmed Him by my transgressions and I sought His forgiveness. I shall never forget that moment of realization and thanksgiving for my redemption.

Try to take some time today to think about Jesus hanging from the cross. Recognize His abundant and never-ending love for you. And thank Him for His sacrifice, which opened the gates of heaven for you.

Ponder:

What can I do today to show my love for Jesus and my appreciation for His sacrifice for me?

Pray:

Lord Jesus, You paid the ultimate price for my sins. Help me to overcome my weaknesses and to follow You more closely this week.

Click to tweet:
We need to be constantly reminded of the price Jesus paid for our failings.  #DailyGospel

Copyright 2024 Maria V. Gallagher