A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke (Lk 21:5-11)
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.”
The words of Daniel in his interpretation of King Nebuchadnezzar’s dream lay a foundation for today’s Gospel. In interpreting the king’s dream, Daniel says, “the God of heaven will set up a kingdom that shall never be destroyed or delivered up to another people; rather, it shall break in pieces all these kingdoms and put an end to them, and it shall stand forever.” In speaking to people who noted the costly stones and votive offerings adorning the temple, Jesus indicates a day when “there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down.” Before the final fulfillment of God’s kingdom, there will be wars, famines, plagues, and natural disasters. And there will be, as Jesus says, “awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.” Remaining faithful to God, Jesus says, means not being led astray and following the voice of false prophets.
Father in heaven, you sent your Son to destroy death and restore life to all those who hear and follow you. For the times I hear but do not respond to you, strengthen my faith and help me return to you to praise and exalt you above all else. “Give glory and eternal praise to him,” the psalmist sings. Give me the grace to give you glory and praise through my words and actions today, offering you my “prayers, works, joys, and sufferings of this day.” When I falter, let me recall that you are “above all forever” and the power is yours to grasp me by the hand and fashion me according to your plan to prepare me for eternal life in your kingdom.
From the Gospel acclamation: “Remain faithful until death, And I will give you the crown of life.” Lord, teach me to trust in your ways.
Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit, as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.