Daily Scripture Reflection & Prayer: November 29, 2023

Date: Wednesday of the 34th Week in Ordinary Time

Scripture Text: Luke 21:12-19

Jesus said to the crowd: "They will seize and persecute you, they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings and governors because of my name. It will lead to your giving testimony. Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute. You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives."

Breaking the text open – background and summary:

The gospel for today, taken from the Gospel of Luke, is drawn from Jesus’ teachings in his final days before his arrest, crucifixion, death, and resurrection (paschal mystery). Jesus warns his disciples and followers of the persecutions that will come, but He also assures them that He will be with them: “for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking.” Jesus also warns that because of faith in Him, families may be divided. Finally, Jesus acknowledges that some will lose their lives on earth because of their faith in Him but give us the hope of life beyond this earth for the faithful, “By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”

Meditating on the text with personal questions:

How faithful am I truly? Will I be able to persevere in faith in the face of persecution for being a Christian? Do I trust in the LORD’s promises?

Praying:

LORD, we believe. Help our unbelief. Strengthen us for this journey home to You. Send your Spirit to fortify our resolve, to increase our faith, to intensify our hope. May our love for You lead us to live You boldly in word and deed this day and all days. Amen.