Reflection for the 33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time, 2025

Malachi 3:19-20a; Psalm 98; 2Thessalonians 3:7-12; Luke 21:5-19

You will be hated by all because of my name,

but not a hair of your head will be destroyed.

Frightening things do not have to overwhelm us.  We can depend on God who is not only all-powerful and wise, but also loves us with a protective, fatherly solicitude. What He does ask us, however, is to firmly believe in Him and to share that saving Faith courageously. Jesus also alerts us to the price of telling the truth when we witness to Him.

Jesus begins today’s passage of Saint Luke’s Gospel by predicting the destruction of the temple, the central site for Jewish worship, sacrifice, and religious and social life.  Then he adds dire warnings about the future – the terrible disorders of wars and earthquakes, betrayals and death.

The warning continues by Jesus telling his disciples that before this happens there will be suffering for the faith.  Jesus is addressing us as well because persecutions are taking place in our world today.  We may even have friends or relatives who have endured trials because of their faith and in many places in the world there are chronicles of martyrdom in modern times.

What does the Lord ask as our response to persecution, whether it be in our everyday lives, within our family or at our workplace?  Jesus simply says, “It will lead to your giving testimony.”  This is a powerful line.  What does it mean?

The Word must be spoken. The truth must be told.  Jesus’ powerful Name must be shared. There is a cost, as the Lord goes on to describe.  Our God, however, is more than fair with His children.   Even as we are asked to step out courageously and defend what we know to be good and true, Jesus promises His help, and victory:

“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.”

So, what should we do to prepare for this persecution that is sure to come?  The best preparation is to cultivate a consistent prayer life, receive the Sacraments regularly, read Sacred Scripture daily, and pray the rosary as a family.  If we ask for wisdom and courage, we know our good Lord will provide it.  Let us also pray for each other.

Brave Christians have found that faith and courage can conquer fear and help to gain victory over them.  Their noble actions have shown that faith is the antidote to fear.  May we be among those victorious souls!

By your perseverance you will secure your lives.