Lectio Divina for the Thirty-Third Week in Ordinary Time
Read the following Scripture two or three times:
Luke 21:5-19
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.
“Before all this happens, however, they will seize and persecute you, they will hand you over to the
synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings and governors because of my name.
It will lead to you giving testimony. Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, for I
myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute.
You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”
Meditation
After the reading, take some time to reflect in silence on or more of the following questions:
– What word or words in this passage caught your attention?
– What in this passage comforted you?
– What in this passage challenged you?
Contemplation
Read the Scripture again, followed by this reflection:
What conversion of mind, heart, and life is the Lord asking of me?
Some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings.
How does the beauty of my parish church foster my worship of God? When has religious art nurtured my
faith?
They will seize and persecute you. When have I suffered for my faith? How can I support those who are
persecuted for their faith?
It will lead to your giving testimony. How have I given testimony to my faith this week? In the week ahead, how can I share my faith with words and actions
After a period of silent reflection recite the Lord’s Prayer.
Living the Word This Week
How can I make my life a gift for others in charity?
Learn more abut religious freedom and religious persecution around the world:
https://www.usccb.org/committees/religious-liberty/backgrounder-religious-freedom
