In today’s Gospel (Lk 21:5-19), Jesus tells his disciples about the destruction of the temple of Jerusalem, the signs of the end and the coming persecution of those who follow him.

For the Jews, during this time, it was an insult to God when Jesus predicted that the temple will be destroyed, that “the days will come when there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down.” (Lk 21:6) God would not allow it to happen. Jesus’ words were almost blasphemous but in 70 AD, the temple was destroyed by the Romans and Jesus’ prediction was fulfilled, indeed.

Jesus also warned his disciples about the signs that must happen such as the coming of false prophets, earthquakes, wars, famine, and plagues “but it will not immediately be the end. ” (Lk 21:9) He also told them that they will be persecuted because of his name even by their own parents, brothers, relatives and friends and some of them will be put to death. But despite all these, Jesus assured them that he, himself, will give them wisdom in speaking and when they persevere, they will secure their lives. It was not Jesus’ intention to predict the future for his disciples to be afraid. Rather, it was his assurance to them that is more important. “Not a hair from your head will perish” (Lk 21:18) Therefore, persecution would become an opportunity for Jesus’ disciples to bear witness to him. Even their death would make the Church flourish. No wonder that early Christians were willing to die for their faith in Jesus. Certainly, God’s purpose of saving his people will prevail. Persecution and martyrdom will surely lead to eternal life those who bear witness to Jesus.

The assurance of Jesus to his disciples is the same assurance we have today. Despite all the unfortunate events that we experience like earthquakes, typhoons and other natural calamities, God is still in control of everything and he is reminding us to persevere in our faith day after day. We must live the Gospel values despite the persecution of the world because of our religious stands and
beliefs even if it demands from us our life. We must always be faithful to Christ so that we will definitely experience the eternal life of God in him.” By your perseverance you will secure your lives” (Lk 21:19) We can only secure our lives by striving to become holy and to offer our life to God because we are certain that Christ remains with us always until the end of times.

~ Fra. Ronel

HOLDING ON TO FAITH

This Gospel speaks to me deeply because it reminds me that everything in this world will soon be gone. The people admired the temple’s beauty, but Jesus said that even it would be destroyed. It makes me think about my own life. How often I focus on things that won’t last, like a simple comfort, plans, or even achievements. Jesus gently reminds me to fix my heart on what truly matters: my faith, my love for others, and my trust in Him.

When Jesus talks about hardships and trials, I can’t help but think of my own struggles, the days when things don’t go as planned, like how i wanted it to be, when I feel tired or uncertain. His words, “Do not be afraid,” give me comfort. He reminds me that even in chaos, He is with me. I don’t have to have everything figured out; I just need trust and to hold on to Him.

There are moments when I feel weak nor unsure of what to say or do, but Jesus promises to give me wisdom and strength. That promise gives me peace. It tells me that I am never alone, and that He will guide me step by step, especially when I feel lost.

And His final words stay in my heart: “By your perseverance you will secure your lives.” (Luke 21:19) For me, that means never giving up on faith, even when life gets messy and heavy. It’s about trusting that God is working, even when I don’t see it, and believing that in the end, His love will never fail me.

~ Leng