Has hope increased or decreased in you?

Good morning, happy Wednesday, and many blessings. 

In today’s Gospel (Luke

21:12-19

), which is a continuation of the discourse begun yesterday, Jesus lists different signs to help the communities place themselves in these events and not lose faith in God, as well as the courage to persevere against the attacks of the Roman Empire.

Sporadic persecution of Christians had already begun when Luke was writing his gospel. This contemporary situation may well be reflected in this passage. Similar persecution is also happening in many parts of the world today. Are those of us living in more tolerant countries sensitive to the sufferings of our fellow-Christians who find themselves "hated by all because of my name"? Are we in effective solidarity with them? Do we pray for them?

Jesus not only describes what his followers will have to endure, but offers assurance that he will support them and make them strong. As he did elsewhere in the Gospel, Jesus clearly foretells that his followers will be persecuted. This will happen because they bear his name, a reality that will put even our most precious relationships to the test: we will be betrayed even by our closest relations and by our friends. As I consider the difficulties I face because of Jesus’ name, I ask for fidelity to my Christian vocation, and pray for those who suffer more than me for this name.

At the same time Jesus is altogether reassuring: he promises words and wisdom that will prove irresistible to our accusers, and total protection by God’s providence. This sounds paradoxical as it sits next to his words that some of us will be even put to death. I look at the crucified Jesus and see that this is what happened in his Passion and Resurrection. I ask Jesus to help me place myself totally in God’s hands, as he did.

These words of Jesus continue what he was saying in yesterday’s scripture about future events. He speaks of great suffering for those who follow Him. This was especially fulfilled in the early years of the Church when there were so many martyrs.

‘You will be betrayed’ even by those close to you. When relationships fail, I know the truth of this warning. But do I believe that God is very close to me then, watching over ‘the hair of my head’? Does this help me to retain my equilibrium and integrity?

“Your endurance will gain you your souls.” I reflect on how I have dealt with adversity over the years. Have I grown through it? Perhaps I am more resilient now, knowing from experience that God is always working to bring good out of my troubles.

I have a self-reflection question for you: Looking at the history of humanity of the last years, has hope increased or diminished in you?

Blessings,

Fr. Luis+