Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: December 30, 2024

Date: The 6th Day in the Octave of Christmas

Scripture Text: 1 John 2:12-17

I am writing to you, children,

because your sins have been forgiven for his name's sake.

I am writing to you, fathers,

because you know him who is from the beginning.

I am writing to you, young men,

because you have conquered the Evil One.

I write to you, children,

because you know the Father.

I write to you, fathers,

because you know him who is from the beginning.

I write to you, young men,

because you are strong and the word of God remains in you,

and you have conquered the Evil One.

Do not love the world or the things of the world.

If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

For all that is in the world,

sensual lust, enticement for the eyes, and a pretentious life,

is not from the Father but is from the world.

Yet the world and its enticement are passing away.

But whoever does the will of God remains forever.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The first reading for today continues our reading of the 1st Letter of John and focuses on the gifts to those who believe and the need to stay focused on the spiritual life and life from, through, and in the LORD.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I allow the material world to displace my spiritual life and relationship with the LORD?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, Beloved Son, Most Holy Trinity, during this season of light and love, help us to remain focused on You, the true light and love itself. Grant that we may not be lured away from our life-giving relationship with You by the glittery attractions of this world. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. As it was in the beginning, is now and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.