Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time, 13 November, 2022

 Gospel Lk 21: 5-19

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.

"Before all this happens, however,

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."

Reflection

When we live a life persecuted by our  situation, whether it be persons, conditions, or whatever, Jesus is ready to help us overcome these, with a  "wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute," and if we are sincere, Jesus does keep his promise. Only when the time comes, we are able to give true testimony to our faith in Jesus Christ. But it comes with daily practice. St Francis of Assisi said, Go and proclaim the Gospel, and only if necessary use words. This implies that proclaiming the Gospel, is love in action, not in words, unless necessary. When persons come to us in need, how often do we let them go, with a 'kind word' ,  ' a promise of prayer'  . Today we ask ourselves if it is enough. 

Activity

Let us trust in God and do something for such persons - see what help they want. Help them , to the extent we can.