Memorial of Saint Andrew Dũng-Lạc, Priest, and Companions, Martyrs , 24 November, 2022

Lk 21:20-28 

Jesus said to his disciples:

“When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies,

know that its desolation is at hand.

Then those in Judea must flee to the mountains.

Let those within the city escape from it,

and let those in the countryside not enter the city,

for these days are the time of punishment

when all the Scriptures are fulfilled.

Woe to pregnant women and nursing mothers in those days,

for a terrible calamity will come upon the earth

and a wrathful judgment upon this people.

They will fall by the edge of the sword

and be taken as captives to all the Gentiles;

and Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles

until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.

"There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars,

and on earth nations will be in dismay,

perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves.

People will die of fright

in anticipation of what is coming upon the world,

for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.

And then they will see the Son of Man

coming in a cloud with power and great glory.

But when these signs begin to happen,

stand erect and raise your heads

because your redemption is at hand.”

Reflections: 

Do we have to wait for the last minute to prepare ourselves for the coming of the Lord? In many places, actual persecution of Christians is rampant. Are we among them? Or are we onlookers, or sympathizers only. Are we ready in our hearts to face persecution for our faith? Isn't it scary? What are you going to do, if tomorrow you are called to renounce your Catholic faith or be arrested? What we need is to strengthen our spirit, and this is possible only with daily silent meditaion.

Activity: 

Take half hour everyday to strengthen your interior self