Reflections on Scripture | Memorial of Saint Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop and Martyr

Join Msgr. Don Fischer as he reads and delivers a short reflection on today’s gospel, followed by 3 1/2 minutes of contemplative music and a closing prayer. Msgr. Don hopes that today’s reflection on the gospel will empower you to carry the Word in your heart throughout the day.

Choose either the video or audio below.

Gospel
Luke 11:37-41

After Jesus had spoken,
a Pharisee invited him to dine at his home.
He entered and reclined at table to eat.
The Pharisee was amazed to see
that he did not observe the prescribed washing before the meal.
The Lord said to him, "Oh you Pharisees!
Although you cleanse the outside of the cup and the dish,
inside you are filled with plunder and evil.
You fools!
Did not the maker of the outside also make the inside?
But as to what is within, give alms,
and behold, everything will be clean for you."

Reflection

It is clear that the Pharisees were rigorous in their following of all the regulations and rules, but their hearts were far from what they should be. In the sense they were filled with greed, always wanting more power, more authority, more acclamation,

and Jesus points out that there is a way in which they might be clean, and has to be more generous. The Pharisees were anything but generous.

Closing Prayer

Father, when we are full, abundantly full of your love and your gifts, we are naturally called to be generous and share these. Bless us with this quality. So we truly may be in your kingdom working for you and not for ourselves. And we ask this in Jesus’ name, Amen.

Kyle Cross