Memorial of Saint John Chrysostom
September 13, 2021
Daily Reading from the USCCB: 1 Timothy 2:1-8
Paul now begins the instructive part of his letter to Timothy, speaking about prayer. Prayer is to be offered for everybody–especially for those in authority–so that the faithful can lead a peaceful life.
Prayer for everybody is also important because God wants everybody to be saved. There is one God, one mediator Jesus, and one redemptive act offered by Jesus. This universal oneness of purpose in God’s plan of salvation is what Paul has been called to proclaim. It is what all believers should join in praying for.
This passage then is about liturgy–what Christians should pray for, and about the nature of the Church–toward whom is salvation directed. Everybody should pray for everybody for the spread of the salvation offered for everybody.
