Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: January 18, 2025

Date: Saturday of the 1st Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text: Hebrews 4:12-16

The word of God is living and effective, sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating even between soul and spirit, joints and marrow, and able to discern reflections and thoughts of the heart. No creature is concealed from him, but everything is naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must render an account.

Since we have a great high priest who has passed through the heavens, Jesus, the Son of God, let us hold fast to our confession. For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but one who has similarly been tested in every way, yet without sin. So let us confidently approach the throne of grace to receive mercy and to find grace for timely help.

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The first reading today continues our reading from Paul’s Letter to the Hebrews. In it, Paul reminds us that Jesus Christ is the Word of God, the revelation and expression of our loving Almighty Father and that He is our “great high priest” whose sacrifice atones for our sin. Christ will be our judge ultimately; however, we are heartened by our recognition His mercy and compassion for us because He can “sympathize” with our weakness.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I recognize Christ’s understanding of my weakness and seek His mercy and also grace?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, your desire for our salvation was realized through the gift of your only-begotten Son who dwelt among us and who was tested in every way, yet without sin. Sinless, He willingly gave Himself upon the cross of Calvary as atonement for our sins. Send your Spirit to awaken in us fully the recognition of His great love for You and for us and His desire that we live life in abundance with You. Grant that we may walk in His footsteps, knowing with assurance that He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life. Help us to humbly and sincerely seek mercy for those times we fail and grace for the journey ahead. 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.