FRIENDS and SERVANTS of the WORD
26 NOVEMBER 2024
Tuesday 34
WORD of the DAY
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.” (Luke 21: 5-11)
How shall I live this Word?
Luke 21:5-11 is placed within the so-called “eschatological discourse” of Jesus, where He speaks about the future, the trials that the disciples will face, and the events that will mark the end of time.
At the beginning of the passage, some admire the temple in Jerusalem, a symbol of God’s presence for Israel. It is a sumptuous building, decorated and revered. But Jesus warns them that “no stone will be left on stone”. It is a prophecy that anticipates the destruction of the temple in 70 A.D. by the Romans. This announcement marks a profound change: the presence of God is no longer limited to a physical place, but dwells in the hearts of believers.
The disciples, disturbed by the words of Jesus, ask when these things will happen and what signs will indicate that they are about to be fulfilled. They seek certainties, visible signs to prepare for the future. This desire to know the future is human and common, but Jesus responds by focusing attention not so much on “when” as on “how” to live out these expectations.
Jesus warns His disciples not to follow those who, taking advantage of uncertainty and the need for hope, present themselves as “messiahs” or announce the imminent end. They are false prophets, and the risk is to be deceived.
This warning is very current. Even today, in times of crisis, there are voices offering solutions or eschatological announcements. Jesus invites us to keep our discernment and not to panic, remembering that some things will have to happen, but “it is not the end”.
Lord, in the midst of trials and tribulations, strengthen me with Your grace.
The voice of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, Theologian
When Jesus speaks of the end times, He exhorts us to be vigilant and ready. True faith does not hide in times of difficulty, but is manifested even more forcefully when everything seems to fall apart around us.
E-mail: srmterzo@gmail.com Website: www.sanbiagio.org info@sanbiagio.org Blog: livingscripture.wordpress.com -Comment: Sr. Yarislet Berrios, FMA
