Daily Gospel Reflection for November 6, 2023

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

Today's Gospel: Luke 14:12-14

There are rules in this world about hospitality, taking turns, being fair, and having expectations. Jesus is telling us to forget about those rules.

One could argue that the culture says to forget about them as well. The difference is this: Jesus says to forget those rules and instead, give and serve without expecting something back. The culture says, forget the rules and get as much as you can from others without making a return. At times, it may say, “Hey, you scratch my back and I’ll scratch yours.” Either way, those are not what Jesus asks of us.

How can He ask this of us? He knew who He was and where He was going. The Son of God going to die on the cross for each one of us. And what do we give in return? I am sure we do many things out of love and gratitude for the gift of salvation Jesus gave us. But we already have the gift, yes?

Today Jesus is asking us to give without expectation of a return; give the way He did and still does. Give in your marriage, your friendships, your family, your work, and your ministry; be as generous as you can and see what happens.

Today marks forty years of marriage, and I will say that the best times are those when I give without expectation of a return.

And that is what Jesus is asking of us so we have the best life. Not the easiest life or most fun life, but the best life happens when we give to others what we have been given.

Ponder:

Do you hold back from giving because you want a return?

Pray:

Lord Jesus, You gave us the very best of Yourself; help me to do the same.

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Today Jesus is asking us to give without expectation of a return - give the way He did and still does. #DailyGospel

Copyright 2023 Deanna Bartalini