Luke 21:6
“The days will come when not one stone will be left upon another.”
Readings for Sunday: Malachi, 2 Thessalonians, Luke
Reflection:
This world is not our true home. Everything we see will one day pass away; even the most beautiful and big things, like the Grand Canyon, will end. In this Sunday’s Gospel, Jesus leads His disciples to the magnificent Temple of Jerusalem, where God dwelt with his people. Yet Jesus says, “The days will come when not one stone will be left upon another.” That must have seemed impossible, especially since the people thought that they were obeying God’s commandments.
We too like to think that we are “ok” with God, and therefore that he will give us comfortable lives on earth. We spend so much time worrying about work, money, homes, and possessions. Yet, truthfully, how close are we to God? How much do we invest in our relationship with God? Everything we build and acquire in this world will vanish. Only our faith and love for Christ will endure.
When the Temple fell, God did not abandon His people. He came to dwell with his people in a new way: Jesus Christ. Jesus is the new temple, literally the God-man, God dwelling with us. With his Resurrection, he lives forever and hence his kingdom will never end.
So, we must ask ourselves: if someone observed my life, would they see that Christ comes first? At work, at home, in my words and choices, do I live for Jesus, or for the world? Sometimes being a disciple of Jesus brings opposition, even ridicule. Yet Jesus tells us, “By your perseverance you will save your lives.” Let us live each day as if it were our last, seeking confession, prayer, charity, and reconciliation. If it were illegal to be a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict us? The world will end — but those who live for Christ will live forever.
Reflection Questions
- Where do I place my deepest trust and attention — in the temporary things of this world, or in my relationship with Christ that will last forever?
- If someone observed my daily life, would they clearly see that Jesus comes first in my priorities, choices, and words?
- What practical step can I take this week — such as prayer, confession, or an act of charity — to live more fully for Christ rather than for the world?