Daily Readings - Wed Nov 27 2024
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 are presented with vivid imagery and profound teachings that guide us through the challenges of faith and the promise of divine triumph. The first reading from Revelation 15:1-4 offers a vision of the end times, where seven angels bear the final plagues, and the victorious stand before a sea of glass, praising God with harps and song. This apocalyptic scene, rich in symbolism, reminds us of God's ultimate judgment and the triumph of those who persevere through trials. The second reading from Luke 21:12-19 shifts focus to Jesus' words of warning to His disciples, foretelling persecution and betrayal. Yet, amidst these trials, Jesus assures them of God's presence, promising wisdom and strength to endure, with the ultimate assurance that not a hair will perish and their souls will be saved through patience.
Both readings, though distinct in context, share a common theme of perseverance in the face of adversity. Revelation, with its apocalyptic imagery, serves as a reminder of the cosmic struggle between good and evil, encouraging believers to remain steadfast. Luke's passage, part of the Olivet Discourse, is a practical guide for living through persecution, emphasizing trust in God's providence. Together, they teach us that our present struggles, though real, are part of a larger narrative where God's justice and love prevail.
In our daily lives, these readings invite us to embrace faith and perseverance. When faced with challenges, we are called to trust in God's plan, knowing that our trials have purpose. Like the disciples, we may face opposition, but we are assured of God's wisdom and strength. The moral lesson here is clear: our endurance, rooted in faith, will lead us to triumph. Let us, therefore, stand firm, trusting that God is with us, even in our darkest hours, guiding us toward ultimate victory.