23-Nov-16

Gospel LK 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:

For thousands of years people of all faiths have suffered discrimination and been subjected to hate crimes because of their beliefs.
In today's age, particularly in the United States, we seldom think about being persecuted for our Christian faith. However, in other parts of the world, Christians are victims of violence and even death because of their belief in Jesus Christ.
Jesus tells all who suffer such injustices....."not to prepare your defense beforehand..."
Jesus' advice is counter cultural. From early childhood, our parents have taught us to prepare ourselves. Even the Boy Scouts of America chose for their motto: "Be Prepared."
But, when being persecuted for our faith, Jesus tells us to abandon dependence upon our own wisdom and to put our trust in Him.
Jesus assures us, "...I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking
that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute."
Jesus assures us that: "By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”
We will be saved not by "our words," but by our steadfast loyalty to Jesus Christ who died to set us free.
"Remain faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life." - - Revelations 2:10