A Reading from the Holy Gospel according to Luke (21:12-19)
Jesus said to the crowd:
“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.”
REFLECTION: In some ways, today’s Gospel passage, is less about destruction, and more about how, as believers, and followers of Jesus Christ, we should react to persecution which may even come from family members. But don’t give up, persevere, for Jesus Christ is at your side, He has our back.
Jesus reframes the concept of persecution, not as a misfortune, but as a divinely appointed opportunity, to testify of Him. In other words, turning the table around, from a personal defense to a position, of proclaiming the gospel. Yes, our instinct, when we face persecution, is a natural fear, that comes along the frightening circumstances. But Jesus, as He did with His disciples, provides us reassurance.
Jesus Christ promises divine wisdom when we face persecution but that is not an excuse for lack of preparation but a readiness for those unexpected moments when we must stand for our faith, without prior preparation. Don’t take me wrong, be prepared to “testify”. But do not prepare to testify in advance, without first, depending on God’s “wisdom”.
The Lord’s assurance, with His “wisdom”, is not simply an escape from suffering, but rather a preparation for it. Jesus forewarns of betrayals, from the closest of relationships, emphasizing that loyalty to Him, may cost us dearly in earthly terms. Yet, amid such betrayal, Jesus promises ultimate victory. As He assured His disciples, He assures us today that not a hair of our head will perish and that by enduring, we will gain our lives—an eternal perspective, that goes beyond earthly suffering.
ACTION FOR THE DAY: Reflect on a recent difficulty or disagreement you faced, maybe with a family member, because of your faith. How can you view this, as an opportunity to testify about Christ, and apply Jesus’ encouragement, to stand firm in your faith?
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