Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: February 25, 2025

Date: Tuesday of the 7th Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text: Sirach 2:1-11

My son, when you come to serve the LORD,

stand in justice and fear,

prepare yourself for trials.

Be sincere of heart and steadfast,

incline your ear and receive the word of understanding,

undisturbed in time of adversity.

Wait on God, with patience, cling to him, forsake him not;

thus will you be wise in all your ways.

Accept whatever befalls you,

when sorrowful, be steadfast,

and in crushing misfortune be patient;

For in fire gold and silver are tested,

and worthy people in the crucible of humiliation.

Trust God and God will help you;

trust in him, and he will direct your way;

keep his fear and grow old therein.

You who fear the LORD, wait for his mercy,

turn not away lest you fall.

You who fear the LORD, trust him,

and your reward will not be lost.

You who fear the LORD, hope for good things,

for lasting joy and mercy.

You who fear the LORD, love him,

and your hearts will be enlightened.

Study the generations long past and understand;

has anyone hoped in the LORD and been disappointed?

Has anyone persevered in his commandments and been forsaken?

has anyone called upon him and been rebuffed?

Compassionate and merciful is the LORD;

he forgives sins, he saves in time of trouble

and he is a protector to all who seek him in truth.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

Today’s first reading comes from the Book of Sirach and presents moral instruction to the reader. Today’s portion deals primarily with our relationship with our LORD as servants of the LORD. Sirach instructs us to be open and genuine (sincere), trusting and faithful.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

How genuine am I as I approach the LORD? How honest? How humble? How open?

Praying:

LORD, You created me and You know everything about me even before I do. You know my hopes and dreams; You know my fears and hurts. Give me a humble and open heart that not only embraces your love but shares it with others. Help me to stand firm through the trials of life knowing that You are with me. May I grow through prayer and patience, through perseverance and piety into the one You created me to be. Amen.