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Wednesday of the Eleventh week in Ordinary Time
2nd book of Kings 2,1.6-14.
Elijah said to Elisha, "Please stay here; the LORD has sent me on to the Jordan." "As the LORD lives, and as you yourself live," Elisha replied, "I will not leave you." And so the two went on together.
Fifty of the guild prophets followed, and when the two stopped at the Jordan, stood facing them at a distance.
Elijah took his mantle, rolled it up and struck the water, which divided, and both crossed over on dry ground.
When they had crossed over, Elijah said to Elisha, "Ask for whatever I may do for you, before I am taken from you." Elisha answered, "May I receive a double portion of your spirit."
"You have asked something that is not easy," he replied. "Still, if you see me taken up from you, your wish will be granted; otherwise not."
As they walked on conversing, a flaming chariot and flaming horses came between them, and Elijah went up to heaven in a whirlwind.
When Elisha saw it happen he cried out, "My father! my father! Israel's chariots and drivers!" But when he could no longer see him, Elisha gripped his own garment and tore it in two.
Then he picked up Elijah's mantle which had fallen from him, and went back and stood at the bank of the Jordan.
Wielding the mantle which had fallen from Elijah, he struck the water in his turn and said, "Where is the LORD, the God of Elijah?" When Elisha struck the water it divided and he crossed over.
Psalms 31(30),20.21.24.
which you have in store for those who fear you,
And which, toward those who take refuge in you,
you show in the sight of the children of men.
You hide them in the shelter of your presence
from the plottings of men;
You screen them within your abode
from the strife of tongues.
Love the LORD, all you his faithful ones!
The LORD keeps those who are constant,
but more than requites those who act proudly.
Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 6,1-6.16-18.
When you give alms, do not blow a trumpet before you, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets to win the praise of others. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward.
But when you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right is doing,
so that your almsgiving may be secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you.
When you pray, do not be like the hypocrites, who love to stand and pray in the synagogues and on street corners so that others may see them. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward.
But when you pray, go to your inner room, close the door, and pray to your Father in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will repay you.
When you fast, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites. They neglect their appearance, so that they may appear to others to be fasting. Amen, I say to you, they have received their reward.
But when you fast, anoint your head and wash your face,
so that you may not appear to be fasting, except to your Father who is hidden. And your Father who sees what is hidden will repay you."
Copyright © Confraternity of Christian Doctrine, USCCB
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Walking with the Word: Daily Bible Readings for Inspired Living
In a fast-paced world filled with distractions and demands, it’s easy to lose sight of what truly matters. Amidst the chaos, finding moments of inspiration and inner peace becomes vital for our well-being.
One powerful way to achieve this is through daily Bible readings. Walking with the Word offers a transformative journey, guiding us towards a life of inspired living.
Let us explore how daily Bible readings can enrich our lives and provide the spiritual nourishment we need.
Finding Inspiration in Daily Bible Readings:
Engaging in daily Bible readings opens up a gateway to the wisdom and teachings of the Scriptures. The Bible is a profound source of inspiration, offering guidance, comfort, and encouragement.
Through its timeless words, we find narratives of triumph over adversity, stories of compassion and forgiveness, and profound insights into human nature and the divine.
The Power of Consistency:
Consistency is key when it comes to incorporating daily Bible readings into our lives. By setting aside dedicated time each day, we cultivate a habit that transforms our relationship with the Word.
This consistency helps to deepen our understanding, establish a strong spiritual foundation, and allow us to absorb the messages of the Bible more effectively.
Guidance for Daily Living:
The Bible provides a treasure trove of practical wisdom that can be applied to our everyday lives. Its teachings guide us in making ethical decisions, nurturing relationships, and finding purpose and meaning.
Whether we seek solace during times of difficulty, seek guidance for major life choices, or desire a moral compass to navigate through challenges, the Bible offers timeless principles that resonate with our human experience.
Building Faith and Trust:
Daily Bible readings foster a deeper connection with our faith. As we immerse ourselves in the Scriptures, we witness the unwavering faith of biblical figures and learn from their journeys.
The stories of Abraham’s trust in God, David’s courage, and Jesus’ teachings on faith become wellsprings of inspiration, nurturing our own belief and trust in a higher power.
Nurturing Inner Peace and Joy:
Walking with the Word brings us closer to God’s presence and fills our hearts with peace and joy. The Scriptures remind us of God’s love, mercy, and faithfulness, even in the midst of life’s trials.
Through daily readings, we discover passages that uplift our spirits, encourage us to persevere, and remind us that we are never alone.
The Word of God becomes a source of comfort, encouragement, and hope, instilling in us a deep sense of inner peace and joy.
Community and Reflection:
Engaging in daily Bible readings can be a solitary practice, but it also fosters a sense of belonging to a larger community.
By connecting with others who share a similar commitment to walking with the Word, we find support, accountability, and opportunities for meaningful discussions and reflections.
Joining Bible study groups or participating in online communities can enhance our understanding and provide fresh perspectives on the readings.
Conclusion:
Walking with the Word through daily Bible readings is a transformative practice that leads to inspired living.
It is an invitation to embark on a journey of spiritual growth, nourishing our souls and aligning our lives with divine wisdom.
By engaging with the Scriptures consistently, we discover inspiration, guidance, and a deeper connection to God.
Let us embrace the transformative power of daily Bible readings and experience the abundant blessings they offer on our path of inspired living.