Daily Readings - Wed Nov 25 2020
Revelation
1And I saw another sign in heaven, great and marvellous, seven angels having the seven last plagues; for in them is filled up the wrath of God.2And I saw as it were a sea of glass mingled with fire: and them that had gotten the victory over the beast, and over his image, and over his mark, and over the number of his name, stand on the sea of glass, having the harps of God.3And they sing the song of Moses the servant of God, and the song of the Lamb, saying, Great and marvellous are thy works, Lord God Almighty; just and true are thy ways, thou King of saints.4Who shall not fear thee, O Lord, and glorify thy name? for thou only art holy: for all nations shall come and worship before thee; for thy judgments are made manifest.
Luke
12But before all these, they shall lay their hands on you, and persecute you, delivering you up to the synagogues, and into prisons, being brought before kings and rulers for my name's sake.13And it shall turn to you for a testimony.14Settle it therefore in your hearts, not to meditate before what ye shall answer:15For I will give you a mouth and wisdom, which all your adversaries shall not be able to gainsay nor resist.16And ye shall be betrayed both by parents, and brethren, and kinsfolks, and friends; and some of you shall they cause to be put to death.17And ye shall be hated of all men for my name's sake.18But there shall not an hair of your head perish.19In your patience possess ye 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.