Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Luke 21,20-28
Jesus said to his disciples:
“When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies,
know that its desolation is at hand.
Then those in Judea must flee to the mountains.
Let those within the city escape from it,
and let those in the countryside not enter the city,
for these days are the time of punishment
when all the Scriptures are fulfilled.
Woe to pregnant women and nursing mothers in those days,
for a terrible calamity will come upon the earth
and a wrathful judgment upon this people.
They will fall by the edge of the sword
and be taken as captives to all the Gentiles;
and Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles
until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled.
“There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars,
and on earth nations will be in dismay,
perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves.
People will die of fright
in anticipation of what is coming upon the world,
for the powers of the heavens will be shaken.
And then they will see the Son of Man
coming in a cloud with power and great glory.
But when these signs begin to happen,
stand erect and raise your heads
because your redemption is at hand.”
Thanksgiving
1. Jesus traveled. I’m struck by the image of Jesus journeying from place to place, I want to keep this picture of a “walking Jesus”. In today’s world, we must be like Jesus who goes out and seeks for people in need. We’re called to imitate his example by reaching out to others instead of waiting for them to come to us. Jesus’s attitude makes me wonder whether I’m just waiting around for someone to tell me what to do or whether I’m actively searching for those in need of help. I need to reflect on whether I truly see the needs of others or if I’m still focused on myself and my own needs. You must go out and look around, step outside your own experiences, recognize the realities others face, and remember that the world does not revolve around you.
2. Healed. Often, our struggles and shortcomings can leave us feeling unwell or unworthy. Today, your suffering might be rooted in something you haven’t accepted or forgiven. Ask yourself what burdens are weighing you down and keeping you from fully embracing and enjoying life. Take these concerns to the Lord, trusting that He can restore you.
3. Gratitude. Return to God and thank him. He heals us and sets us free. Return to him because there is so much you should thank him for. Reflect on the many reasons you have to be grateful—the gifts, beauty, and joy you’ve received and shared with others. What would you like to thank God for today?
Always remember that something good is on the way!
God bless you, be with you and protect you in the name of the Father, of the Son and of the Holy Spirit.
