The Lord speaks bluntly to the disciples, saying that many who follow him will suffer persecution. Yet as we persevere in faith we are reminded that God will give us what we need to keep going.
“When will it end?” This common question has been with humanity since the dawn of time. When people ask Jesus, the Lord responds with two simple points of common sense:
Do not be deceived
Do not be afraid
Thus, we live each day as the precious gift it is, ready at a moment’s notice to step from this life to the next.
He is our creator, our savior, our judge and our friend. In simple and unassuming ways, he will meet us in our struggles through this life with the courage and conviction to continue in the toughest of times. As our king he deserves our allegiance; yet he lays down his life that we might be saved. We owe everything to Jesus Christ, our King!
The resurrection. Life after death. Eternal communion with God and one another. This crucial teaching reminds us of what is at stake in the battlefield of our souls – the opportunity for everlasting life with the peace, joy and love of Jesus Christ. I want to be there, and I want you to join me!
In this passage of Luke’s Gospel, Jesus focuses his time and attention in the Temple area. This “house of prayer” is a place of teaching, reflection, insight and communion with God and one another. Every time we step inside a church to pray we enter holy ground; may we frequently take time to encounter the Lord and grow as his sons and daughters.
Once a year as a nation we pause and give thanks for our blessings. It’s a great idea, and as disciples of Jesus Christ we pause everyday to thank the Lord with a grateful heart. What are you thankful for today? How can you share your blessings and be a light in the world?
Jesus offers a parable about servants who have been given resources by their master. The passage reminds us that we have all been blessed with opportunities to serve the Lord, and everyday we have a chance to act upon them.
Jesus speaks to Zacchaeus and initiates a conversation that leads to a conversion of heart. We, too, are called to reach out to one another with the Good News of Christ…to seek and save what was lost.
The Gospel reading makes it clear that all of us will be judged according to what we have been given in this life. Our invitation? To take stock of the gifts and talents we have and make something special for the glory of God.
The Lord invites us to pray always and never become weary. May the blessings and burdens of each day be a part of our daily prayer, as we call upon the Lord for what we need.