Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: December 9, 2024

Date: Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception

Scripture Text: Ephesians 1:3-6, 11-12

Brothers and sisters:

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us in Christ with every spiritual blessing in the heavens, as he chose us in him, before the foundation of the world, to be holy and without blemish before him. In love he destined us for adoption to himself through Jesus Christ, in accord with the favor of his will, for the praise of the glory of his grace that he granted us in the beloved.

In him we were also chosen, destined in accord with the purpose of the One who accomplishes all things according to the intention of his will, so that we might exist for the praise of his glory, we who first hoped in Christ.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The second reading for today from the Letter to the Ephesians reminds us of the blessings beyond measure the Almighty Father has showered upon us through His beloved Son, Jesus Christ. Through Jesus, the Father “destined us for adoption to himself.” Through Jesus, the Father chose us who hope in Christ.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

How do I thank the Father for the gift of His Son? How do I thank Christ for His love so perfect that it could atone for the sins of all humanity? Do my prayers include praise and thanksgiving?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, we lift our minds, hearts, voices, and souls in praise and thanksgiving to You this day. We praise You as LORD and we give thanks to You for the gift of your Son, Jesus Christ, for our salvation. Send your Spirit to kindle in us anew the fire of your love this day. Grant that we may not squander so great a gift as that of your Son for our lives. You chose us to receive this gift. We pray that every day and every moment of each day we choose You, we choose the salvation from You, through the Son, in the Spirit. We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Spirit, one LORD, forever and ever. Amen.