Daily Gospel Reflection for November 9, 2023

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

Today's Gospel: John 2:13-22

Today we celebrate the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica in Rome. Established in the 4th century, the Basilica is the oldest church in Europe and serves as the official ecclesiastical seat of the Bishop of Rome, the pope.

The church as a physical building is where we faithfully gather to worship, adore, and glorify God in community with others. In John’s Gospel today, we hear of Jesus driving out those who desecrated God’s temple. In response to His actions, the Jews ask for a sign. Jesus says if they destroy this temple, He will raise it in three days, speaking about the Crucifixion and Resurrection of His body. Through this sign, the Gospel emphasizes that the disciples came to believe the scripture and the word.

Jesus performed many miracles or signs that inspired belief in His followers during his public ministry. Yet many more came to believe through a personal encounter with Him. For us, there is no greater personal encounter with Christ than receiving Him – body, blood, soul, and divinity – in the Holy Eucharist. In this moment, God is within us. We become a temple of God because He dwells in us. We are His Church, united as one people in Christ’s spirit of love.

As God’s temple, we are called to live in such a way that renews and strengthens the foundation Christ laid. When Jesus is active within us, we allow God to encounter others through us.

Ponder:

In what ways have you experienced an authentic personal encounter with God - Father, Son and Holy Spirit?

Pray:

God, help me remember that by receiving You in the Eucharist, you are making me a temple of your love and spirit. Let my encounters with others today serve You.