FROM ANCIENT PROPHECY TO PRESENT REALITY: EXPLORING CHRIST’S DOMINION (DANIEL 7:2-14. LUKE 21:29-33).

"I saw One like a son of man coming, on the clouds of heaven; When he reached the Ancient One and was presented before him, He received dominion, glory, and Kingships; nations and peoples of every language serve Him. His dominion is an everlasting dominion that shall not be taken away”,  (Cfr Daniel 7:2-14).

The prophecy of Daniel helps us understand more the identity of Christ, his self- identification, particularly during a crucial moment in his life.

It is interesting to note that while Jesus was often presented as the Messiah, the anointed, the Son of God, and the Son of David, the title “Son of Man” is the only one He used to refer to Himself. He did this at a particularly pivotal moment: when the plot to kill Him intensified. He said to His disciples, “You know that after two days the Passover is coming, and the Son of Man will be delivered up to be crucified” (cf. Matthew 26:1). This mention of the ‘Son of Man’ brings us back to Daniel's vision, which may foreshadow a significant future event in Christian eschatology.

The Son of Man coming in the clouds of heaven, as prophesied by Daniel, could be a vision announcing the second coming of Christ. The most important aspect to underline here is the triumph of Christ over Satan, sin, and death. The Son of Man who “received dominion, glory, and kingships” in the first reading today is the same who said to His disciples after His resurrection, “All authority in Heaven and on earth has been given to me.” This statement is followed by the Great Commission: going into the world to proclaim the Good News of the Kingdom of God. It is heartwarming to know that Jesus, whom we love, worship, and serve, has all authority given to Him. Therefore, if we remain faithful in this friendship with Jesus, we shall move from victory to victory.

The Gospel’s (LUKE 21:29-33) emphasis on the imminency of the  Kingdom of God ties directly into how Jesus embodied and conveyed this kingdom during His mission. Christ made visible this Kingdom of God, which is a central topic in His mission. One of the greatest signs of the Kingdom of God is the casting out of demons (Luke 11:20).  Destroying the reign of satan and restoring to us what we have lost because of sins of Adam and Even was at the heart of Jesus’ mission.

A realistic look at the world today shows us that evil, crimes, violence, conflicts, wars, moral crisis, family and relational crisis, are on the increase. Humanity’s  future is more than threatened. The enemy of the children of God is doing everything possible to prevent many souls from entering the Kingdom of God, from experiencing the reign of God in their lives, in this world.

In this context of confusion and uncertainty, the word of Christ gives us an assurance. He said at the end of the today’s Gospel : “My Words shall not pass away.” So, we can be sure that Christ doesn’t change because the world is changing. He is capable of manifesting his divine presence to whosoever accepts to be his friend.

A typical example to help us understand further the Kingdom of God is the teaching of Jesus when a doctor of the Law asked Him, “Of all the commandments, which is the most important?” Jesus, seeing that he had answered wisely, said to him, “You are not far from the Kingdom of God.” This leads us to a deeper understanding of what it truly means to be near God's Kingdom and how we can strive to be a part of it.  It means that loving God with all our heart is key to entering His Kingdom. The more we love God, the closer we come to His Kingdom. And we know that love is concrete and not just a concept. To love Him is to keep His commandments. To be part of this Kingdom is to collaborate with Christ in His mission.

If we remember that the radical disobedience of Satan and his pride led to his downfall along with other angels, then we should prioritize doing the will of God. And we cannot do this without the help of Jesus and Mother Mary.

As we look forward to a significant period in the Christian calendar, let us seek divine assistance to live out these teachings more fully.  As we begin this new month, in which we are going to celebrate the incarnation of the Son of Man, the climax of God’s plan of salvation for humanity, let us, with humility and faith, ask Christ to help us be closer to Him and collaborate more efficiently in making God’s Kingdom come.

Christ has given us a special mission: to pray always. In the prayer of Our Father, He asked us to pray, “Thy Kingdom come.” May God’s Kingdom, His reign, be a reality in our lives, homes, villages, cities, countries, and all over the world... Amen.

 

Let us Pray :

Heavenly Father, we come to you again today, at the beginning of this new month. We are grateful for your infinite Love and Mercy towards us.

As we reflect upon the profound insights from the Vision of Daniel and the teachings of Your Son, Jesus Christ, we humbly seek Your guidance. May our hearts be open to the mysteries of Your Kingdom, as revealed through Your Word.

Help us to understand the role of the Son of Man, and to embrace the mission You have entrusted to us with faith and courage. Strengthen our resolve to follow Your commandments, and to live in the light of Your love. Guide us to be faithful servants, working tirelessly for the coming of Your Kingdom on Earth as it is in Heaven.

We make our prayers through Christ our Lord!

LA RENCONTRE DE LA MER DE GALILEE : UNE MÉDITATION SUR L'APPEL D'ANDRE ET SIMON PIERRE. (MT.4:18-22)

 

Dans sa Lettre aux Romains (Rom 10, 9-18), saint Paul parle de la foi qui est professée et crue dans le cœur. Il utilise une belle expression : « La foi vient de ce qu’on entend, et ce qu’on entend vient de la parole du Christ ». Au fil des siècles, cette parole du Christ a été proclamée partout dans le monde. Aujourd'hui, alors que nous célébrons la fête de saint André, le frère de saint Pierre, nous avons une nouvelle occasion de réfléchir sur ce que signifie être appelé par Jésus, être son disciple.

L'Évangile du jour commence par dire : « Alors que Jésus marchait au bord de la mer de Galilée, il vit deux frères, Simon appelé Pierre et son frère André.» Le regard de Jésus est un regard de perspicacité et de discernement; il a vu non seulement leur présence physique, mais aussi leur potentiel, leur caractère et les rôles qu'ils joueraient dans sa mission. Il voyait en eux ses disciples avant même qu’ils ne s’en rendent compte eux-mêmes.

Pour nous, chrétiens, ce moment est symbolique de l’appel de Jésus dans nos vies. Cela nous révèle que Jésus voit au-delà de la surface, comprenant nos forces, nos faiblesses et notre potentiel. Nous pouvons imaginer le moment même où les yeux de Jésus et ceux des deux disciples se sont rencontrés. Ils ont été profondément touchés par ce regard profond. C’est l’un des aspects sur lesquels nous pouvons réfléchir aujourd’hui : se laisser regarder par Jésus. Il pourrait être bon de se poser cette question : «Est-ce qu’on se laisse regarder par Jésus ? Croyons-nous que Jésus a une profonde compréhension de nous, y compris de nos forces, de nos faiblesses et de notre potentiel ?

L'appel des deux premiers disciples souligne également l'interconnexion entre foi et mission. Cela nous montre la nature dynamique de la foi à la fois comme conviction personnelle et comme message à partager. Suivre le Christ, comme l'illustre saint André et Pierre, c'est s'embarquer dans un voyage de transformation. Cette transformation nécessite souvent d’abandonner ses anciens modes de vie, ses priorités, voire ses identités, un peu comme Andrew et Peter qui ont abandonné leurs filets pour devenir des «pêcheurs d’hommes». Cet acte de départ symbolise un changement intérieur plus profond, une volonté de donner la priorité à la mission du Christ plutôt qu'au confort personnel ou aux activités mondaines.

Être un disciple du Christ est un processus actif et continu. Dès le baptême, que ce soit dans l'enfance ou à l'âge adulte, on n'est pas seulement qualifié de chrétien mais on est appelé à vivre la mission chrétienne. Cette mission, vécue par saint André, Pierre et bien d’autres, consiste à annoncer la parole du Christ, une tâche qui nécessite à la fois d’entendre et de parler. Les Apôtres ont annoncé leur expérience du Christ. Ainsi, avoir une connaissance expérientielle du Christ est essentiel pour assumer avec cohérence notre identité chrétienne. Dans un monde inondé d'une myriade de voix et de messages, la clarté et la simplicité du message du Christ peuvent être à la fois un réconfort et un défi.

De plus, conduire les autres à Christ n’est pas seulement une question d’évangélisation vocale. Il s'agit d'une approche holistique qui englobe nos actions, nos décisions et la façon dont nous vivons notre vie. L’authenticité de notre foi est souvent mieux communiquée par des actes d’amour, de compassion et de service, reflétant les enseignements du Christ de manière pratique et tangible.

Essentiellement, suivre le Christ, c’est grandir continuellement dans la foi, embrasser la mission de répandre sa parole et vivre d’une manière qui attire les autres vers son amour et sa vérité. C'est un voyage d'apprentissage et d'adaptation constants, où l'acte de laisser quelque chose derrière soi ne devient pas une perte mais une passerelle vers un chemin plus profond et plus épanouissant, aligné sur la mission du Christ. Cette fête de Saint André nous rappelle opportunément notre appel et le pouvoir transformateur d’une vie vécue à la suite du Christ.

 

 

Prions le Seigneur :

Dieu notre Père, dans l’esprit de saint André et guidés par Ta Parole, nous cherchons à suivre le Christ avec un cœur plein de foi. Accorde-nous le courage de laisser derrière nous ce qui entrave notre chemin avec Toi.

Remplis-nous du zèle pour partager ton amour et ta vérité, comme le fit saint André. Que nos paroles et nos actions conduisent les autres vers Ta grâce et éclairent le chemin vers Ton amour éternel. Guide-nous dans notre mission d’être de vrais disciples, vivant notre foi dans tous les aspects de notre vie.

Nous te les demandons par le Christ notre Seigneur ! Amen.

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THE SEA OF GALILEE ENCOUNTER: A MEDITATION ON THE CALL OF ANDREW AND SIMON PETER. (MT.4:18-22)

 

In his Letter to the Romans, (Rom 10:9-18) St. Paul discusses the faith that is professed and believed in the heart. He uses a beautiful expression: “Faith comes from what is heard, and what is heard comes through the word of Christ.” Over the centuries, this word of Christ has been proclaimed all over the world. Today, as we celebrate the feast of St. Andrew, the brother of St. Peter, we are given another opportunity to reflect on what it means to be called by Jesus, to be his follower.

The Gospel of the day starts by saying: “As Jesus was walking by the Sea of Galilee, he saw two brothers, Simon who is called Peter and his brother Andrew.” The gaze of Jesus is one of insight and discernment; he saw not just their physical presence, but their potential, character, and the roles they would play in his mission. He saw in them his disciples even before they were aware of it themselves.

For us as Christians, this moment is emblematic of Jesus’ call in our lives. It reveals to us that Jesus sees beyond the surface, understanding our strengths, weaknesses, and potential. We can imagine the very moment the eyes of Jesus and the eyes of the two disciples met. They were deeply touched by this profound gaze. This is one of the aspects we can ponder on today: allowing ourselves to be looked upon by Jesus. It could be good to ask ourselves this question: “Do we allow ourselves to be looked upon by Jesus?” Do we believe that Jesus has a deep understanding of us, including our strengths, weaknesses, and potential?

The call of the first two disciples underlines also the interconnection between faith and mission. It shows us the dynamic nature of Faith as both a personal conviction and a message to be shared. To follow Christ, as exemplified by Saint Andrew ad Peter, is to embark on a journey of transformation. This transformation often requires leaving behind former ways of life, priorities, or even identities, much like Andrew and Peter who left their nets to become “fishers of men.” This act of leaving symbolizes a deeper inner change, a willingness to prioritize Christ's mission over personal comfort or worldly pursuits.

Being a follower of Christ is an active and ongoing process. From baptism, whether in infancy or adulthood, one is not just labeled a Christian but is called to live out the Christian mission. This mission, as lived by Saint Andrew, Peter and countless others, involves proclaiming the word of Christ, a task that necessitates both hearing and speaking.  The Apostles announced their experience of Christ. Thus, having an experiential knowledge of Christ is key in assuming with coherence our Christian identity. In a world inundated with myriad voices and messages, the clarity and simplicity of Christ’s message can be both a solace and a challenge. 

Moreover, leading others to Christ is not merely about vocal evangelization. It's a holistic approach that encompasses our actions, decisions, and the way we live our lives. The authenticity of our faith is often best communicated through acts of love, compassion, and service, reflecting the teachings of Christ in practical and tangible ways.

In essence, to follow Christ is to continually grow in faith, to embrace the mission of spreading His word, and to live in a way that draws others towards His love and truth. It's a journey of constant learning and adaptation, where the act of leaving something behind becomes not a loss but a gateway to a deeper, more fulfilling path aligned with Christ's mission. This feast of Saint Andrew serves as a timely reminder of our calling and the transformative power of a life lived in following Christ.

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Let us Pray:

Heavenly Father,

In the spirit of Saint Andrew and guided by Your Word, we seek to follow Christ with hearts full of faith. Grant us the courage to leave behind what hinders our journey with You.

Fill us with the zeal to share Your love and truth, just as Saint Andrew did. May our words and actions lead others to Your grace and illuminate the path to Your eternal love. Guide us in our mission to be true disciples, living out our faith in every aspect of our lives.

We make our prayers through Christ our Lord! Amen.

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LA FOI AU MILIEU DE L'ADVERSITÉ : COMPRENDRE LES PROMESSES DE JÉSUS EN TEMPS D'ÉPREUVE (LUC 21 : 12-19).

Hier, dans la lecture de l'Évangile, alors qu'il s'adressait à la foule, Jésus les a avertis de se méfier des faux prophètes qui viendraient en son nom et tenteraient de tromper les gens. Il les a également encouragés à ne pas avoir peur des guerres, des insurrections, des catastrophes naturelles et des épidémies.

Dans le passage évangélique d'aujourd'hui (Luc 21 : 12-19), Jésus va plus loin en nous présentant un aspect poignant et stimulant de son message pour tout chrétien, en soulignant les épreuves auxquelles nous serons confrontés et l'aide divine que nous recevrons.

La promesse de la persécution

Jésus prévient clairement que Le suivre ne sera pas un chemin sans obstacles. Au contraire, les croyants seront confrontés à des défis importants, notamment la persécution. Cette persécution viendra de diverses sources : des autorités religieuses, des dirigeants publics et, plus douloureusement, de la propre famille et des proches. Cet aspect de l'enseignement de Jésus est crucial car il fixe des attentes réalistes à tous les chrétiens. Le christianisme n’est pas présenté comme une voie menant à des récompenses terrestres immédiates ou à une acceptation universelle. Il s’agit plutôt d’un pèlerinage marqué par la résistance et souvent par l’hostilité du monde. On comprend ici pourquoi Jésus dit à ses disciples : « Vous êtes dans le monde, mais vous n'êtes pas du monde. » 

Aujourd’hui, l’Église est confrontée à d’énormes défis et les chrétiens sont persécutés non seulement par des forces extérieures mais aussi de l’intérieur. Il ne s’agit pas seulement de divergences d’opinions et de croyances, mais aussi de la façon dont nos croyances façonnent notre mode de vie. Si la mission de tout chrétien est d'apporter l'Évangile au monde, c'est avant tout de transformer le monde de l'intérieur et non de se laisser transformer par le monde.

L'assurance de la présence divine

Face à ces défis de taille, Jésus nous offre une profonde assurance : sa présence sera avec ses disciples par le Saint-Esprit. À la fin de l'Évangile de Matthieu, en envoyant ses disciples en mission, Jésus leur a promis, ainsi qu'à ceux qui suivront leurs traces : « Voici, je suis avec vous jusqu'à la fin des temps » (Mt 28, 20). Cette présence n’est pas un simple réconfort abstrait ; cela s’accompagne de la promesse de sagesse et des mots justes pour parler face à l’adversité. Ceci est important car cela souligne la conviction que les croyants ne sont pas laissés à eux-mêmes. La sagesse qu’ils reçoivent n’est pas de leur propre initiative mais est un don divin qui leur permet de tenir bon face aux épreuves. Il est donc primordial d'apprendre à écouter la voix de notre Maître Jésus dans la méditation et la prière silencieuses, surtout en cette période de confusion générale dans le monde.

La promesse d'une protection ultime

L'affirmation de Jésus selon laquelle « pas un cheveu de notre tête ne sera détruit » peut être considérée comme une manière métaphorique de nous assurer de notre protection et de notre salut ultimes, en particulier lorsque notre vie est menacée à cause du nom du Christ. Dans le contexte immédiat, cette déclaration peut sembler paradoxal, surtout si l’on considère les persécutions physiques que certains chrétiens (pourraient) endurer. Cependant, cela souligne une vérité plus profonde dans la théologie chrétienne : la victoire et la protection ultimes sont spirituelles et éternelles, transcendant les dommages physiques. De plus, l’étymologie du mot «Témoigner » est dérivé d'un mot grec μάρτυς » (mártys) qui est à l'origine  du mot « témoin ». Cela nous rappelle que témoigner du Christ peut parfois conduire à offrir sa vie pour le Christ et son Évangile.

L’impératif de la persévérance

Le message du Christ culmine aujourd’hui dans l’appel à la persévérance. L’endurance dans la foi n’est pas simplement une attente passive mais un engagement actif et ferme envers Christ et ses enseignements, malgré les pressions et les épreuves extérieures. Cette persévérance n’est pas seulement un moyen d’endurer mais fait également partie intégrante du processus de salut et du témoignage chrétien dans le monde.

En conclusion, nous pouvons dire que l'Évangile d'aujourd'hui (Luc 21 : 12-19) présente une image réaliste mais pleine d'espoir pour tout chrétien. Il reconnaît la réalité de la persécution et des difficultés auxquelles les disciples du Christ seront confrontés . Pourtant, cela nous offre simultanément une puissante assurance de la présence de Jésus par le Saint-Esprit, de la sagesse divine que nous recevrons face aux épreuves et de la promesse d’une protection et d’un salut ultimes. Ce passage constitue donc un appel impérieux à une foi inébranlable et à la persévérance , nous ancrant dans l'espérance et la force qui viennent du Christ, même au milieu des circonstances les plus difficiles de la vie.

Prions :

Dieu, dans l'esprit de Ton assurance, telle que Jésus l'a dit, que « pas un cheveu de notre tête ne sera détruit », nous trouvons réconfort et force. Dans les moments où notre foi nous place dans l’adversité, rappelle-nous que notre protection et notre salut ultimes sont entre tes mains.

Aide-nous à accepter le paradoxe des défis physiques et des triomphes spirituels, sachant que notre véritable victoire se situe dans le domaine spirituel, éternelle et inébranlable. Accorde-nous le courage d'être témoins de ton amour et de ta vérité, en nous inspirant de l'exemple des premiers chrétiens, qui sont restés fermes dans leur foi au milieu des épreuves. Que nos vies reflètent la mission ointe du Christ, témoignant de Ta grâce et de Ta gloire.

 

 

FAITH AMIDST ADVERSITY: UNDERSTANDING JESUS’ PROMISES IN TIMES OF TRIAL (LUKE 21:12-19).

In the Gospel reading yesterday, while addressing a crowd, Jesus warned them to beware of false prophets who will come in his name, would try to deceive people. He also encouraged them not to be afraid of wars, insurrections, natural disasters, and plagues.

In today's Gospel passage (Luke 21:12-19), Jesus goes further to present us a poignant and challenging aspect of Christian discipleship, highlighting the trials we will face and the divine assistance we will receive.

The Promise of Persecution

Jesus starkly warns that following Him will not be a path free of obstacles. Rather, as believers will face significant challenges, including persecution. This persecution will come from various quarters: religious authorities, public leaders, and, most painfully, from within one’s own families and relatives. This aspect of Jesus' teaching is crucial because it sets realistic expectations for all Christians. Christianity is not portrayed as a path to immediate earthly rewards or universal acceptance. Instead, it is a journey marked by resistance and often hostility from the world. We understand here why Jesus said to his disciples: “You are in the world, but not of the world.”  

Today, the Church is faced with enormous challenges and Christians are being persecuted not just from external forces but even from within. Its not just about divergence of opinions and beliefs, but how what we believe in fashions our way of life. If the mission of every Christian is to bring the Gospel to the world, it is primarily to transform the world from within and not to be transformed by the world.

The Assurance of Divine Presence

In the face of these daunting challenges, Jesus offers us a profound assurance: His presence will be with us His followers through the Holy Spirit. At the end of the Gospel of Matthew, while sending his disciples to mission Jesus promised them and those who will follow their footsteps: “Behold, I am with you until the end of times” (Mt. 28:20). This presence is not a mere abstract comfort; it comes with the promise of wisdom and the right words to speak in the face of adversity. This is significant because it underscores the belief that we are not left to their own struggles. The wisdom we (will) receive is not of our own making but is a divine gift, equipping us to stand firm in the face of trials. It is therefore primordial to learn to listen to the voice of our Master Jesus in silent meditation and prayer, especially in this time of general confusion in the world.

The Promise of Ultimate Protection

Jesus' assertion that “not a hair of our head will be destroyed" can be seen as a metaphorical way of assuring us of our ultimate protection and salvation, especially when our live is threatened because of Christ’s name. In the immediate context, this statement may seem paradoxical, especially considering the physical persecutions some Christians (might) endure. However, it points to a deeper truth in Christian theology – the ultimate victory and protection are spiritual and eternal, transcending physical harm. Moreover, the etymology of the word “Witnessing” is derived from a Greek word μάρτυς" (mártys) which originally meant “witness”. It reminds us that bearing witness to Christ could sometimes leads to offering one’s life for the sake of Christ and his Gospel. 

The Imperative of Perseverance

The message of Christ today culminates in the call to perseverance. Endurance in faith is not merely a passive waiting but an active, steadfast commitment to Christ and His teachings, despite the external pressures and trials. This perseverance is not just a means to endure but is also integral to the process of salvation and the Christian witness in the world.

Conclusively, we can say that today’s Gospel (Luke 21:12-19)  presents a realistic yet hopeful picture of Christian discipleship. It acknowledges the reality of persecution and hardship that followers of Christ will face. Yet, it simultaneously offers us a powerful assurance of Jesus' presence through the Holy Spirit, divine wisdom we will receive in the face of trials, and the promise of ultimate protection and salvation. This passage thus serves as a compelling call to steadfast faith and perseverance, anchoring us in the hope and strength that comes from Christ, even in the midst of life's most challenging circumstances.

 

 

 

Let us pray:

Heavenly Father,

In the spirit of Your assurance, as spoken by Jesus, that 'not a hair of our head will be destroyed', we find solace and strength. In times when our faith places us in adversity, remind us that our ultimate protection and salvation lie in Your hands.

Help us to embrace the paradox of physical challenges and spiritual triumphs, knowing that our true victory is in the spiritual realm, eternal and unshakable. Grant us the courage to be witnesses to Your love and truth, drawing from the example of early Christians, who stood firm in their faith amidst trials. May our lives reflect the anointed mission of Christ, bearing witness to Your grace and glory.

PROPHECIES AND PREDICTIONS: MANKIND’S TIMELESS QUEST FOR CERTAINTY (Luke 21:5-11).

 

Today’s Gospel reading is a passage in the New Testament where Jesus speaks about the future destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, the coming of false prophets, wars, and natural disasters. This passage is often interpreted as Jesus' prophecy about the end times and the importance of discernment and faithfulness in the face of trials and tribulations.

As the Catholic Church approaches the end of the ordinary time of the liturgical year and moves towards Advent, this passage takes on a significant resonance. Advent is a time of preparation and anticipation for the coming of Christ, both in commemoration of His birth and in preparation for His second coming. This dual aspect of Advent aligns well with the themes in Luke 21:5-11. In today's context, Jesus' teachings in this passage can be actualized in several ways:

Understanding the Signs of the Times: The people listening to Jesus asked for signs of when these events will occur. Their reaction offers us a profound insight into the human curiosity and the quest for knowledge. As humans, we desire to understand the unknown and to seek certainty in an uncertain world. The speed at which our world is constantly changing increases the fear of the future and uncertainty. This curiosity is a fundamental aspect of the human condition, driving both scientific inquiry and spiritual exploration.

Anxiety about the Future: The questions people asked Jesus also highlight the human tendency to worry about the future, especially regarding significant, life-altering events. In today's world, this anxiety manifests in concerns about global issues like climate change, political instability, pandemics, and economic uncertainties. People often seek signs or predictions to prepare themselves for what lies ahead.

Propensity for Predictive Fascination: Throughout history, there has been a fascination with prophecies and predictions, especially about the end of the world. This is evident today in the numerous theories and speculations about the apocalypse or significant global shifts, perpetuated by various religious, cultural, and even scientific communities. The reaction in Luke 21 mirrors this ongoing human fascination with eschatology (the study of the end times). Jesus is warning us, “See that you are not deceived, for many will come in my name, saying I am he, and The time has come. Do not follow them.”

False Prophets and Misinformation: In an age of information overload, the warning against false prophets can be seen as a caution against misinformation and deceptive ideologies. Christians are called to test what they hear and see against the truth of the Gospel and the teachings of the Church. Let us keep in mind always that God’s word is eternal helps and God never changes; He is worthy of trust. 

Jesus' prediction about wars, natural disasters, persecutions are all among us. Christians face various forms of trials : personal, societal. The Gospel today call us to maintain faith and hope, to endure amidst trials and difficult times.  

The Temporal and the Eternal: The prophecy of the destruction of the Temple, a symbol of religious and national identity, reminds us of the impermanence of earthly structures and institutions. It invites us to focus on eternal values and the unshakeable Kingdom of God. Jesus is the same, yesterday, today and forever.

Prudent Discernment in Action: The call to prudent discernment is not just about understanding the times but also about responding appropriately. This involves making choices that align with Gospel values, such as peace, justice, and compassion, and actively working to manifest these values in the world.

Hope in God's Sovereignty: Amidst the descriptions of chaos and destruction, there is an underlying theme of God's sovereignty and the ultimate triumph of His Kingdom. This offers hope and assurance that, no matter how tumultuous the times in which we live are, God is in control.

Luke 21:5-11 serves as a poignant reminder for us to stay vigilant, discerning, and faithful, anchoring our lives in the hope and trust in God's ultimate plan for humanity. Jesus encourages us to undertake a deep reflection on how we live out our faith in the contemporary world, constantly aware of the transient nature of earthly life and the eternal promise of God's Kingdom.

Let us Pray:

Heavenly Father,

In a world of constant change and uncertainty, where the structures we build and the certainties we hold dear may crumble, we turn to You, our eternal rock and refuge.

Grant us the wisdom to discern the signs of the times, not with fear but with faith. In the midst of trials, rumors of war, and natural calamities, help us to remember Your promise of presence and Your assurance of salvation.

Strengthen our hearts to not be weighed down by the anxieties of life, but to stand firm in Your truth, to share Your love, and to be beacons of hope in a troubled world.

May our trust in You be unshakable, our hope unwavering, and our love for others a testament to Your enduring grace.

Through Christ our Lord…..amen!

 

BEYOND MONETARY VALUE: SPIRITUAL LESSONS FROM THE WIDOW’S OFFERING.

 

Today's Gospel (Cfr Luke 21:1-4) narrates the story of the widow’s offering. This biblical passage  offers us a profound insight into the nature of Jesus’ perception about offering as a religious act and what  it signifies in our relationship with God.

In these verses, Jesus observes the wealthy making their offerings at the temple, and then a poor widow who offers two small copper coins. His reaction to this scene is deeply revealing. Jesus’ focus is not on the monetary value of the offerings, but rather on the heart and intent behind them. His acknowledgment of the widow’s offering as being more than all the others is a testament to the fact that she gave out of her poverty, putting her whole livelihood into the offering. Her attitude reflects humility, sincerity, and deep trust in God. Her act of giving was not motivated by recognition or praise from others; it was deeply personal act of worship and trust in God’s provision.

The look of Jesus in this scenario is unique and telling. It’s a look that sees beyond the external appearances and societal norms. He sees the heart, the sacrifice, and the true nature of one’s giving. This challenges the often superficial way we might judge worth or significance, inviting a deeper reflection on the sincerity and intention behind our actions.

In a broader sense, Jesus’ reaction to the widow’s offering reflects how God values our relationship with Him. It’s not about the grandeur or the amount we bring, but the authenticity and willingness of our heart, the love with which we accomplish our religious duties. It'’s a call to give not just from our abundance but from our substance, even if it seems small in the eyes of the world.

This widow’s attitude is total contrast with what is happening in some modern church settings, where there is the tendency to emphasize and publicize monetary donations, especially large ones. This approach can create a culture where the value of a person’s offering is judged by its monetary worth rather than the heart and intention behind it. When people give with the expectation of recognition or esteem from the congregation, it shifts the focus from God to the individual and from spiritual devotion to social status.

In the light of today’s Gospel, Christians, both Lay people and Clerics, are called to a sober reflection with all sincerity. We should ask ourselves a fundamental question about the nature of giving in religious contexts: Is the act of giving meant to be a display of personal wealth or status, or is it an act of worship and an expression of faith? The widow’s example calls for a return to the essence of giving – an act that is not about self-promotion but about sincere faith, trust, and devotion to God.

        This passage, therefore, is a powerful reminder of the profound value Jesus places on sincere, heartfelt actions, however modest they might appear. It’s an invitation to re-evaluate our own approach to giving and our relationship with God, focusing more on the sincerity and truth of our hearts than on the external appearance of our actions.

 

Let us Pray:

Heavenly Father,

We thank you for the gift of who we are and what we have.  We come before You, inspired by the humble offering of the widow. Teach us, O Lord, to give not for the eyes of others, but for the joy of Your Kingdom. May our offerings, small or great, be a reflection of a heart devoted to You.

Grant us the wisdom to see beyond the material value of our gifts, and help us to understand the true spirit of generosity. As the widow gave all she had, let our giving be a testament to our trust in Your boundless provision.

In humility, we ask You to cultivate in us a heart that gives quietly, sincerely, and faithfully, seeking not the approval of man but the smile of Heaven. May our lives be an ongoing prayer, our actions a continuous offering, pleasing in Your sight,

We make our prayers through Christ our Lord….