A Jesuit Catholic University
in Omaha, Nebraska, since 1878

[186] Sir 48:1-4, 9-11 Ps 80:2ac+3b, 15-16, 18-19 Matt 17:9a, 10-13

Weekly Guide for Daily Prayer The Daily Reflections

Prophets, like Elijah and John the Baptist, questioned and challenged the people so they could better live into the Kingdom of God on Earth. In this gospel, the disciples were not aware that John the Baptist had been named the next prophet. Are we ignoring prophets now — prophets that will challenge us to grow and be our best selves for the service of the Kingdom of God? In my opinion, these prophets do not necessarily have to be as renowned as Mahatmas Gandhi or Dorothy Day, although they too are important to recognize, but who are the prophets in my daily life?

I think of my friend, Annie. She has challenged me through conversations, encouragement, and support. I am more in tune with my spiritual and religious needs by talking with her about my relationship with God and how that manifests itself into my daily living, allowing me to live more fully into God’s will. By acknowledging her importance in my life, as a prophet in the definition I gave, she is challenging me to better live as myself in relation to God. Who are the prophets in our lives and how will we recognize them?