Entrust yourself to a greater love...
Reflections on the readings for the 33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time (November 17, 2019): MAL 3:19-20, PS 96:5-6,7-8,9; 2 THES 3:7-12; LK 21:5-19
MISSIO offers “Mission In Scripture” to nurture a missionary heart, providing reflections on the missionary themes in the readings of Sundays, Feast Days and Holy Days
In today’s Gospel, St. Luke sets the scene in the Temple where Jesus addresses His listeners about the destruction of the Temple itself.
The people want to know when it will happen and what signs to expect. He tells them that many things will happen including wars and natural disasters before the end will come. Moreover, this is also the last time that Jesus enters the Temple before His own arrest, torture and crucifixion. Therefore a number of meanings, including the Final Judgment, are related in this part of Jesus’ final discourse before He and His Apostles prepare for the Last Supper. Christ wants His followers to understand that they, too, will have a difficult path to travel. “You will 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” (Luke 21:16-19). His disciples do not yet know what Jesus will soon face. Yet, He wants them to grasp that while many of them will have to suffer for their belief in Him, they will gain eternal life.
Jesus Himself would die. However, He would rise again. And so will we. All who follow His way of generous love and humble goodness will share life everlasting with Him.
Suggested missionary action: We can ask Christ to help us stop focusing on our own will and preferences. Let us take responsibility for living faithfully and humbly. As we draw closer to the end of this Christian year, let us ask Jesus to guide our growth in devoted love.
