Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: January 13, 2025

Date: Monday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text: Mark 1:14-20

After John had been arrested, Jesus came to Galilee proclaiming the Gospel of God:

“This is the time of fulfillment. The Kingdom of God is at hand. Repent, and believe in the Gospel.”

As he passed by the Sea of Galilee, he saw Simon and his brother Andrew casting their nets into the sea; they were fishermen. Jesus said to them, “Come after me, and I will make you fishers of men.” Then they left their nets and followed him. He walked along a little farther

and saw James, the son of Zebedee, and his brother John. They too were in a boat mending their nets. Then he called them. So, they left their father Zebedee in the boat along with the hired men and followed him.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel reading for today recounts the beginning of Jesus’ ministry as recorded in the Gospel of Mark. Jesus began with the call for repentance and turning to the LORD in faith, hope and love. And He began calling individuals to follow Him, to become His disciples.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Have I truly picked up my discipleship? Am I following Jesus?

Praying:

LORD, Jesus Christ, You call us to believe in You, Son of God, our Savior. You call us to follow You, to follow in your footsteps, to keep your commandments of love: Love the LORD with all our might and love one another as we love ourselves. Send your Spirit to arouse in us the faith of a true disciple, the faith that allows us to follow even when it is difficult, and to love You as You have loved us. Grant that our journey in this life will be with You and through You for the glory of the Father Almighty in the Spirit. Amen.