Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: November 28, 2023

in the Ordine: Tuesday of the 34th Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text: Luke 21:5-11

While some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings, Jesus said, "All that you see here–the days will come when there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down." Then they asked him, "Teacher, when will this happen? And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?" He answered, "See that you not be deceived, for many will come in my name, saying, 'I am he,' and 'The time has come.' Do not follow them! When you hear of wars and insurrections, do not be terrified; for such things must happen first, but it will not immediately be the end." Then he said to them, "Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to place; and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky."

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel reading for today reminds us that there will be an end time, but we do not know the time. In the Gospel of Mark (Mark 13:32), it is noted that Jesus told the disciples, “But of that day or hour, no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” The purpose of Jesus’ message is not to frighten but to remind the disciples for the need for watchfulness, for vigilance, for faithfulness in our lives. Whether it is the second coming and the end time for the whole world or merely the end of our individual time, we will not know the day or time; we must remain faithful and vigilant.

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

Do I live my moments aware that I know not how many more I will have? Am I faithful? Do I live each day as if it may be my last, making sure to be at peace with others, to be loving of the LORD and others?

Praying:

LORD, Almighty Father, we come before You this day, seeking help on our journey to life in abundance with You. Send your Spirit to fortify our resolve, to strengthen our wills, and to grace us and guide us on our journey home. Help us to stay ever faithful to You and to live as You created us to live and command us to live – to live lives lovingly – to love well and to love long. Help us to endure hardships when they arise; buoy our spirits with your hope. We ask this in the name of your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ, who gave His life so that we might have life in abundance. We ask this in His name, He who lives and reigns with You and the Spirit, one LORD, forever and ever. Amen.