Luke 21:5-11

Lectio (Reading)

Read the passage twice and get a sense of what it is saying. Pay attention to what strikes you.

While some people were speaking about
how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings,
Jesus said, “All that you see here–
the days will come when there will not be left
a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down.”

Then they asked him,
“Teacher, when will this happen?
And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?” 
He answered,
“See that you not be deceived,
for many will come in my name, saying,
‘I am he,’ and ‘The time has come.’ 
Do not follow them! 
When you hear of wars and insurrections,
do not be terrified; for such things must happen first,
but it will not immediately be the end.” 
Then he said to them,
“Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 
There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues
from place to place;
and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.”  

Meditatio (Reflecting)

Slowly read the passage again, pausing on words or phrases that stands out. Take time to consider the meaning. particularly in your life.

All that you see here – the days will come when there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down.

Oratio (Responding)

Read the passage again, slowly. Consider how God has spoken to you and respond back to Him. You may want to consider how this passage is asking you to act differently.

While in this passage Jesus is clearly talking about the destruction of the temple, he is also making a clear reference to the end times. Whether we are in end times or not, I don’t claim to know. But end times are definitely on my mind lately. We see great suffering in the world, we see the evil one having the time of his life. Lies, stealing, corruption, and sin are the norm and not the outlier. It is almost enough to make one despair. But we cannot. The lord has told us who wins in the end. And as bad as the devil can make this world feel, it is nothing compared to what god has planned for those who love him.

Heaven it is going to be perfect happiness, love will be the rule, and anger and sin will not be possible. We will be able to walk in the garden with the Lord, talk to Him and have a relationship with Him. All of the things in this world that give status or fame will be irrelevant, and you will only be judged by how much you love God.

So “stand erect, and lift your heads” because when our redemption comes none of this current pain and suffering will matter, and as St. Teresa of Avila said, in comparison to what awaits us in heaven, it will be no worse than an uncomfortable night in a cheap motel.

Contemplatio (Contemplating)

Take time to simply remain in the presence of God.

Resolutio (Resolving)

Make a resolution that will improve your life, your relationships, or your faith. Make it small and attainable, and do it.

Oh lord, help me today to not fear the pains of this world, and to rightly order my life to you, so that I can be with you for eternity. Amen.