November 20, 2022
Gospel – November 17, 2019 – Luke 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.”
Today I laid an 18 year old to rest, Harmony. She was changing a tire on the side of the road when she was struck by a car and died. I can’t imagine the pain her parents are experiencing. That real sense of loss I hope never to experience. Her little sister no longer has her big sister to turn to and brother the same. A one year old who will never have the experience of knowing this wonderful young woman.
As I read this Gospel, for the first time I see the thread back to the previous Gospel selections. Jesus warning nothing of this world is anything but temporary. No stone left unturned.
Not to look for him but to live our lives in constant readiness for him. Don’t be misled by others who claim knowledge they do not have.
And now the warning of the difficulties ahead. For us to trust in him and he will provide all we need – even our words.
Harmony lived a lot of life in the 18 years she was given. She did a lot, she loved a lot and I believe she was prepared. Now her family and friends must navigate the future – without her.
At least that’s what I heard Him say…
Will they let Jesus lead them? Or will the world are that spot? Pray for them
What I Heard Him Say 