Daily Readings - Wed Nov 25 2020
Revelation
1And I saw another sign in heaven, great and wondrous: seven Angels, holding the seven last afflictions. For with them, the wrath of God is completed2And I saw something like a sea of glass mixed with fire. And those who had overcome the beast and his image and the number of his name, were standing upon the sea of glass, holding the harps of God3and singing the canticle of Moses, the servant of God, and the canticle of the Lamb, saying: "Great and wondrous are your works, Lord God Almighty. Just and true are your ways, King of all ages4Who shall not fear you, O Lord, and magnify your name? For you alone are blessed. For all nations shall approach and adore in your sight, because your judgments are manifest.
Luke
12But before all these things, they will lay their hands on you and persecute you, handing you over to synagogues and into custody, dragging you before kings and governors, because of my name13And this will be an opportunity for you to give testimony14Therefore, set this in your hearts: that you should not consider in advance how you might respond15For I will give to you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries will not be able to resist or contradict16And you will be handed over by your parents, and brothers, and relatives, and friends. And they will bring about the death of some of you17And you will be hated by all because of my name18And yet, not a hair of your head will perish19By your patience, you shall possess your souls
Sermon
In today’s readings, we encounter powerful images of perseverance, divine justice, and the ultimate triumph of God. The first reading from Revelation presents a vision of the saints standing victorious on a sea of glass, singing hymns of praise to God. They have overcome the beast and its false allure, and now they celebrate God’s wondrous works and just ways. This apocalyptic imagery reminds us that God’s plan is unfolding, even when the world seems consumed by chaos. The second reading from Luke’s Gospel shifts our focus to the present. Jesus warns His disciples of the persecutions they will face because of His name. He assures them that these trials are opportunities to bear witness to the truth and promises that the Holy Spirit will give them the words to speak. Despite the challenges, Jesus encourages them to remain steadfast, for not a hair of their head will perish, and by their patience, they will save their souls.
The connection between these readings lies in their emphasis on enduring trials with faith and trust in God. Revelation offers a glimpse of the final victory, where the saints stand triumphant, while Luke’s Gospel focuses on the journey of discipleship, where perseverance in the face of adversity is essential. Both readings remind us that our struggles are not in vain. God’s justice will prevail, and His wisdom will guide us through even the darkest times. In a world filled with uncertainty, these readings call us to remain faithful, knowing that our ultimate hope is in God’s eternal plan.
As we reflect on these readings, let us ask ourselves: How do we respond to the challenges in our own lives? Do we trust in God’s providence, or do we allow fear and doubt to take hold? Jesus assures us that we are not alone; He will give us the strength and the words to face whatever comes our way. Let us embrace the call to patience and perseverance, knowing that these virtues will help us possess our souls in peace. In the end, it is not the trials we endure but our faithfulness that will be our greatest witness to the power of God’s love.