Hearing and Doing

Gospel

Matthew 7:21, 24-27

21 Jesus said to his disciples: “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the Kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father in heaven. 24 “Everyone who listens to these words of mine and acts on them will be like a wise man who built his house on rock. 25 The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house. But it did not collapse; it had been set solidly on rock. 26 And everyone who listens to these words of mine but does not act on them will be like a fool who built his house on sand. 27 The rain fell, the floods came, and the winds blew and buffeted the house. And it collapsed and was completely ruined.” 

Historical Background

Historically, the Gospel of Matthew was written between 70–90 AD with this passage emphasizing authentic discipleship. These verses are part of the Sermon on the Mount, delivered in Galilee to both disciples and crowds. The passage echoes Old Testament wisdom literature (e.g., Proverbs), which stresses that true wisdom lies in applying instruction, not merely hearing it.

Jesus used imagery familiar to His audience—houses built on rock or sand—to illustrate stability versus fragility. In the ancient Near East, sudden rains and floods were common, so the metaphor resonated deeply.

Theological Context

Jesus warns that not everyone who says “Lord, Lord” will enter the kingdom, but only those who do the will of the Father. This stresses obedience over mere verbal confession. He contrast the wise builder (obedience, rock foundation) with the foolish builder (disobedience, sand foundation). The rock symbolizes Christ and His teachings; the sand represents unstable reliance on self or superficial religion.

This section concludes the Sermon on the Mount, tying together themes of discernment, humility, and authentic righteousness. It warns against false prophets and shallow faith, urging a lived-out relationship with God.

Learning Lessons

It's not enough to just hear Jesus' teachings; we must also put them into practice. We should live out our faith through our actions.

Building our lives on Jesus' teachings is like building a house on a solid rock that can stand firm against storms. This strong foundation of faith helps us withstand life's challenges and storms and endure trials and difficulties with resilience and strength.

Obeying Jesus' words is wise. It shows that we understand the value and importance of His teachings and are committed to following them.

Reflecting on this verse can inspire us to actively live out our faith, build a strong foundation in Jesus' teachings, seek wisdom through obedience, and develop resilience in the face of challenges. 

Reflection for the Day

It is not enough to admire Jesus’ words; we must practice them. Faith without obedience is like a house on sand—beautiful perhaps but doomed when storms come.

Life’s storms (trials, doubts, temptations) will come. We should build our lives on Christ as the solid foundation, lest shifting sands of superficial faith collapse under life’s storms. Let us root our lives in Christ, practicing His teachings so that we stand firm when storms arise.

Upon the rock, a house was built, 

With wisdom, care, and faith instilled. 

The storms may rage, the winds may blow, 

But firm it stands, through all we know.

To hear His words and put them to use, 

Is wisdom's path, a sacred truce. 

For in His teachings, strength we find, 

A solid rock, for heart and mind.

When trials come and shadows fall, 

The house on rock withstands it all. 

With faith as strong as mountains high, 

We face the storms, with lifted eyes.

So build your life on words divine, 

With every step, let His light shine. 

For those who hear and do His will, 

Will find their house on rock stands still.

Lord Jesus, 

We come before You with open hearts, Grateful for Your teachings and guidance. Help us to not only hear Your words, but to put them into practice in our daily lives.

Grant us the wisdom to build our lives on the solid rock of Your truth, so that we may stand firm against the storms of life. Strengthen our faith and resolve, to live according to Your will and example.

May we be like the wise man who built his house on the rock, Grounded in Your love and teachings. Guide us in our journey and help us to be faithful and obedient to Your word.

Amen.

Pericope:

II: The Proclamation of the Kingdom

THE TRUE DISCIPLE/ THE TWO FOUNDATIONS

Matthew 7:21-23/24-29

Gospel Acclamation

Seek the Lord while he may be found; call him while he is near.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

December 05, 2024, 6:28 AM

 

Heart Moved with Pity

Gospel

Matthew 15:29-37

29 At that time: Jesus walked by the Sea of Galilee, went up on the mountain, and sat down there. 30 Great crowds came to him, having with them the lame, the blind, the deformed, the mute, and many others. They placed them at his feet, and he cured them. 31 The crowds were amazed when they saw the mute speaking, the deformed made whole, the lame walking, and the blind able to see, and they glorified the God of Israel. 32 Jesus summoned his disciples and said, “My heart is moved with pity for the crowd, for they have been with me now for three days and have nothing to eat. I do not want to send them away hungry, for fear they may collapse on the way.” 33 The disciples said to him, “Where could we ever get enough bread in this deserted place to satisfy such a crowd?” 34 Jesus said to them, “How many loaves do you have?” “Seven,” they replied, “and a few fish.” 35 He ordered the crowd to sit down on the ground. 36 Then he took the seven loaves and the fish, gave thanks, broke the loaves, and gave them to the disciples, who in turn gave them to the crowds. 37 They all ate and were satisfied. They picked up the fragments left over—seven baskets full.

Historical Background

Jesus is by the Sea of Galilee, a region where Jews and Gentiles mingled. The location is the Decapolis, a Gentile territory.

Physical disabilities in Jewish society often carried stigma, sometimes seen as punishment for sin. By healing the lame, blind, mute, and deformed, Jesus restores not only health but also dignity and inclusion.

Mountains in Scripture often signify divine encounter (e.g., Sinai, Beatitudes). Jesus sitting on the mountain evokes the image of a teacher and revealer of God’s presence. The crowd had been with Jesus for three days, hungry and weary. The multiplication of loaves and fish recalls God’s provision of manna in the wilderness, showing continuity between Israel’s past and Christ’s mission.

Theological Context

The healings fulfill Isaiah’s prophecy: “Then will the eyes of the blind be opened, the ears of the deaf cleared; the lame will leap like a stag” (Isaiah 35:5–6). Jesus embodies the arrival of the Messianic age. By ministering in Gentile territory, Jesus demonstrates that God’s compassion is not limited to Israel but extends to all nations.

The act of laying the sick “at his feet” reflects surrender and faith, foreshadowing the sacraments of healing (Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick) where Christ restores both body and soul. The feeding of the multitude anticipates the Eucharist—Christ giving Himself as the true bread that satisfies spiritual hunger.

Learning Lessons

Jesus' concern for the physical needs of the people shows His deep compassion and care. He addressed both the spiritual and physical needs of the people. This teaches us the importance of being compassionate and caring for the needs of others, caring for both the spiritual and physical well-being of those we serve. Let us put the needs of others before our own and to serve with a selfless heart.

Reflecting on this verse can inspire us to be compassionate, holistic in our ministry, trusting in God's provision, and selfless in our service to others. 

Reflection for the Day

This passage invites us to trust in Christ’s compassion. It reminds us that Christ heals our brokenness and satisfies our hunger. Just as the crowds brought their brokenness to Jesus, we are called to lay our wounds, fears, and needs at His feet.

God can transform small acts of generosity into great blessings. Our response to Christ’s compassion should be evangelization—sharing His mercy through words and deeds. Today, let us bring our needs to Him with trust, and let His compassion overflow through us to others.

Three days they followed, hearts so true, 

With nothing to eat, their strength withdrew. 

My heart is moved with pity deep, 

For the crowd that follows, weary and weak.

In compassion's light, I see their need, 

To send them away would be a grievous deed. 

For fear they may collapse on the way, 

I seek to provide, to nourish, to stay.

With love and care, I offer my hand, 

To feed the hungry, to help them stand. 

In every heart, a spark of grace, 

To lift them up, to fill their place.

Moved with pity, my heart does yearn, 

To see them fed, to see them return. 

For in their eyes, I see the plea, 

To be sustained, to be set free.

Lord Jesus,

Your heart is moved with pity for the crowd, for they have been with You for three days, and have nothing to eat. In Your compassion, You do not want to send them away hungry, for fear they may collapse on the way.

Grant us the same compassion and care, to see the needs of those around us, and to respond with love and generosity. Help us to provide for both the physical and spiritual needs of others, Following Your example of selfless service.

May we always trust in Your provision and be instruments of Your grace and mercy. Guide us to serve with a heart full of compassion, and to bring comfort and nourishment to those in need.

Amen.

Pericope

V: Jesus, the Kingdom and the Church

THE HEALING OF MANY PEOPLE / THE FEEDING OF THE FOUR THOUSAND

Matthew 15:29-31 / 32-39

Gospel Acclamation

Behold, the Lord comes to save his people; blessed are those prepared to meet him.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

December 04, 2024, 6:46 AM 

Blessed Eyes

Gospel

Luke 10:21-24

21 Jesus rejoiced in the Holy Spirit and said, “I give you praise, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, for although you have hidden these things from the wise and the learned you have revealed them to the childlike. Yes, Father, such has been your gracious will. 22 All things have been handed over to me by my Father. No one knows who the Son is except the Father, and who the Father is except the Son and anyone to whom the Son wishes to reveal him.” 23 Turning to the disciples in private he said, “Blessed are the eyes that see what you see. 24 For I say to you, many prophets and kings desired to see what you see, but did not see it, and to hear what you hear, but did not hear it.”

Historical Background

This passage occurs after the return of the seventy-two disciples, who had been sent out to proclaim the Kingdom of God. Their success in casting out demons and healing the sick fills Jesus with joy.

In first-century Judaism, wisdom was often associated with scribes, Pharisees, and scholars of the Law. Jesus contrasts this with the simplicity of ordinary people who receive God’s revelation with humility. The idea of God hiding truths from the “wise” echoes Old Testament themes (e.g., Isaiah 29:14), where divine wisdom overturns human expectations.

Theological Context

Jesus thanks the Father for revealing mysteries of the Kingdom to “little ones.” This highlights the paradox of divine wisdom: it is not attained by intellectual achievement but by openness of heart.

Jesus rejoices “in the Holy Spirit” while addressing the Father, showing a glimpse of the inner life of the Trinity. Verses 22–23 emphasize that only the Son knows the Father fully, and He alone reveals Him. This underscores the centrality of Christ as mediator of divine knowledge.

Jesus tells them they are privileged witnesses, seeing and hearing what prophets and kings longed for but did not experience.

Learning Lessons

Jesus emphasizes the blessedness of the disciples for witnessing His works and hearing His teachings. This reminds us to be grateful for the spiritual insights and experiences we have. Not all are blessed and privileged to receive divine revelation.

Recognizing that we are blessed to receive what others longed for should inspire humility and a deeper awareness of our spiritual journey. It encourages us to be mindful of the unique opportunities we have to grow in faith.

With the privilege of receiving divine revelation comes the responsibility to share it with others. The disciples were entrusted with the message of Jesus, and we too are called to share the Good News with those around us.

Reflecting on these verses can inspire us to be grateful, value divine revelations, remain humble, and take responsibility for sharing our faith. 

Reflection for the Day

Like Jesus, we are invited to rejoice in the Spirit and thank God for the gift of faith. The passage challenges us to approach God not with pride or self-sufficiency, but with childlike trust. Spiritual insight is given to those who are willing to be small before God.

We, too, share in the blessing of knowing Christ. This should inspire both joy and responsibility—to live as witnesses of the Kingdom. Let us rejoice in God’s surprising wisdom, embrace humility, and treasure the privilege of knowing Christ.

Blessed are the eyes that see, 

The wonders of His majesty. 

For many prophets longed to know, 

The grace and love that freely flow.

Kings and rulers sought the light, 

But missed the vision, pure and bright. 

What you see, a gift so rare, 

A glimpse of heaven, beyond compare.

In whispers soft, His voice you hear, 

A melody that draws you near. 

The truths revealed, the hearts set free, 

Blessed are the eyes that see.

Cherish the sight, the sound, the grace, 

For in His presence, find your place. 

With grateful hearts, embrace the call, 

To witness Him, the Lord of all.

Lord Jesus,

We come before You with grateful hearts, Blessed are the eyes that see what You reveal, For many prophets and kings longed for this sight, yet did not see, and longed to hear, yet did not hear.

Thank You for the gift of Your presence, For the divine revelations You bestow upon us. Help us to cherish and value these blessings, to grow in faith and understanding each day.

Grant us the humility to recognize our privilege, And the wisdom to share Your truth with others. May we always be mindful of Your grace and live in a way that honors Your holy name.

Amen.

Pericope:

V: The Journey to Jerusalem: Luke's Travel Narrative

PRAISE OF THE FATHER/THE PRIVILEGES OF DISCIPLESHIP

Luke 10:21-22/23-24

Gospel Acclamation 

Behold, our Lord shall come with power; he will enlighten the eyes of his servants. 

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

December 03, 2024, 5:29 AM 

Just Say the Word

Gospel

Matthew 8:5-11

5 When Jesus entered Capernaum, a centurion approached him and appealed to him, 6 saying, “Lord, my servant is lying at home paralyzed, suffering dreadfully.” 7 He said to him, “I will come and cure him.” 8 The centurion said in reply, “Lord, I am not worthy to have you enter under my roof; only say the word and my servant will be healed. 9 For I too am a man subject to authority, with soldiers subject to me. And I say to one, ‘Go,’ and he goes; and to another, ‘Come here,’ and he comes; and to my slave, ‘Do this,’ and he does it.” 10 When Jesus heard this, he was amazed and said to those following him, “Amen, I say to you, in no one in Israel have I found such faith. 11 I say to you, many will come from the east and the west, and will recline with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob at the banquet in the kingdom of heaven.”

Historical Background

Archaeological excavations confirm Capernaum was a thriving town in Jesus’ time, with basalt houses, fishing tools, and a synagogue beneath the later 4th-century structure. Inscriptions and records from Josephus show centurions were stationed in Galilee, making the story historically plausible.

Centurions were often Greek-speaking veterans. Galilean Jews also spoke Greek due to trade routes, so communication between Jesus and the centurion was natural.

Theological Context

The centurion, a Gentile, demonstrates profound faith in Jesus’ authority. This anticipates the inclusion of all nations in God’s plan of salvation. He recognizes Jesus’ word as sufficient to heal, paralleling military command structures. This highlights Jesus’ divine authority over sickness and creation.

Jesus declares that many will come from east and west to sit with Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob in the kingdom, pointing to the universality of the Gospel. While Israel was the chosen people, Jesus warns that some who presume closeness to God may miss out if they lack faith.

Learning Lessons

Jesus' word alone is enough to heal us. The centurion's faith teaches us to trust in God's power to work in our lives, even when we cannot see Him physically. It encourages us to believe in the unseen and trust in God's ability to intervene in our situations. Let us show a deep faith in Jesus' authority and power, even without His physical presence.

The centurion acknowledges his unworthiness to have Jesus come to his home. This humility is a powerful example of recognizing our own limitations and the greatness of God. He seeks healing for his servant, not for himself. This act of intercession highlights the importance of praying and seeking God's help for others, showing compassion and care for those in need.

Reflecting on this verse can inspire us to cultivate humility, deepen our faith in God's authority, trust in His power, and intercede for others. 

Reflection for the Day

This passage reminds us that God’s grace is not bound by ethnicity, status, or tradition. Faith is the key that opens the door. God’s kingdom is open to all who believe.

The centurion does not demand Jesus’ physical presence but trusts His word. True faith rests not on signs but on confidence in Christ’s authority. Like the centurion, we are called to recognize Jesus’ power in our lives. His word is enough to heal, guide, and transform.

Today’s reflection invites us to trust more deeply in His word and to welcome others into the fellowship of faith.

Lord, I am unworthy, this I know, 

To have You come where I reside below. 

But with a word, Your power revealed, 

Just say the word, and he is healed.

In humble faith, I seek Your grace, 

To heal my servant in this place. 

No need for You to come inside, 

Your word alone will turn the tide.

With faith so strong, I trust in You, 

Your healing touch, Your love so true. 

For in Your word, all power lies, 

To mend the heart and open eyes.

Lord, speak the word, and it is done, 

Your will be done, Your kingdom come. 

In faith, we stand, in hope, we kneel, 

Just say the word, and we are healed.

Lord Jesus,

In humility, we come before You, acknowledging our unworthiness to have You enter our homes. Yet, we trust in Your boundless mercy and power.

Just say the word, Lord, and healing will flow, For Your authority transcends all boundaries. Grant us the faith of the centurion, to believe in Your word and Your will.

Heal our hearts, our minds, and our bodies, and extend Your grace to those we love. May Your presence be felt in every corner of our lives, bringing peace, comfort, and restoration.

Amen.

Pericope:

III: Ministry and Mission in Galilee

THE HEALING OF A CENTURION'S SERVANT

Matthew 8:5-13

Gospel Acclamation

Come and save us, Lord our God; let your face shine upon us, that we may be saved.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

December 02, 2025, 5:33 AM 

Be Prepared

 

Gospel

Matthew 24:37-44

37 Jesus said to his disciples: “As it was in the days of Noah, so it will be at the coming of the Son of Man. 38 In those days before the flood, they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, up to the day that Noah entered the ark. 39 They did not know until the flood came and carried them all away. So will it be also at the coming of the Son of Man. 40 Two men will be out in the field; one will be taken, and one will be left. 41 Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken, and one will be left. 42 Therefore, stay awake! For you do not know on which day your Lord will come. 43 Be sure of this: if the master of the house had known the hour of night when the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and not let his house be broken into. 44 So too, you also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.”

Historical Background

Jesus is speaking to His disciples on the Mount of Olives, in what is known as the Olivet Discourse. This passage comes just after He foretells the destruction of the Temple and speaks of signs of the end times.

Jesus recalls the days of Noah (Genesis 6–9), when people lived ordinary lives—eating, drinking, marrying—until the flood suddenly came. This parallel emphasizes the unexpected nature of divine judgment. The imagery reflects Jewish apocalyptic thought, which often warned of sudden divine intervention and urged vigilance.

Theological Context

The passage highlights the unpredictability of Christ’s Second Coming. Unlike human schedules, God’s timing is hidden. Jesus urges His followers to “stay awake” spiritually, living in readiness rather than complacency.

The image of one being taken and another left underscores the seriousness of discipleship—faithfulness determines readiness. While the text warns of sudden judgment, it also reassures believers that vigilance and faith secure salvation.

Learning Lessons

Faith is not occasional but daily vigilance. Ordinary life can lull us into forgetting eternal realities. We should live with readiness and avoid complacency.

Salvation is not automatic by association; each person must respond to Christ. : Preparedness is not fear-driven but rooted in trust and hope in Jesus.

Reflection for the Day

Today, as Advent begins, Matthew 24:37–44 reminds us that Christ’s coming is both a promise and a challenge. Just as people in Noah’s time ignored the signs, we too can be distracted by routine. Advent calls us to awaken, to prepare our hearts, and to live each day as though Christ might return tonight. Readiness is not about anxiety but about living faithfully, lovingly, and attentively in God’s presence.

The night is deep, the stars still shine,

Yet dawn may break at God’s design.

Two walk the field, one disappears,

The other waits with trembling fears.

Stay awake, O soul, be wise,

Lift your gaze to heaven’s skies.

For Christ will come, both sure and true,

Let Him find His light in you.

Lord Jesus, 

You remind us that Your coming will be sudden, like a thief in the night. Awaken my heart from slumber, free me from distractions, and teach me to live each day in readiness. Grant me faith that endures, hope that sustains, and love that prepares me to welcome You. May I be vigilant, not fearful, and may Your life in me shine with Your light until You come again. 

Amen.

Pericope:

VI: Ministry in Judea and Jerusalem

THE UNKNOWN DAY AND HOUR

Matthew 24:36-44

Gospel Acclamation

Show us, Lord, your love; and grant us your salvation.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Vigilant at All Times

 

Gospel

Luke 21:34-36

34 Jesus said to his disciples: “Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise 35 like a trap. For that day will assault everyone who lives on the face of the earth. 36 Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.”

Historical Background

Jesus is speaking in Jerusalem during the final days before His Passion. This discourse is part of what scholars call the Olivet Discourse, where He warns His disciples about coming trials, the destruction of the Temple, and the end times. His words are directed to His disciples, but also to future believers who would face persecution, uncertainty, and temptation.

The Jewish world was under Roman rule, with political unrest and religious tension. Many Jews expected a political Messiah, but Jesus emphasized vigilance, prayer, and readiness for God’s kingdom instead of earthly power.

Theological Context

Jesus warns against spiritual drowsiness caused by indulgence (carousing, drunkenness) or anxiety (the cares of life).  Vigilance is not passive—it is sustained by prayer, which strengthens believers to stand before the Son of Man. While salvation is God’s gift, discipleship requires active readiness, resisting presumption, and living faithfully.

Learning Lessons

Guard your heart. Earthly life is fleeting; eternal life is the true horizon. Faith is not about last-minute repentance but daily vigilance. Distractions, pleasures, and worries can numb spiritual awareness. Prayer is not optional—it is the lifeline that keeps us alert and faithful.

Reflection for the Day

Today, Jesus invites us to examine what makes our hearts “drowsy.” Is it worry, pleasure, or routine? He calls us to wakefulness—not in fear, but in hope. To live alert is to live with purpose, knowing that each moment is a gift and each prayer is a step closer to Him.

 

Awake, O soul, the night is near,  

The trumpet sounds, the call is clear.  

Do not be lulled by fleeting gain,  

Nor numbed by sorrow, loss, or pain.  

Lift up your eyes, the Lord will come,  

With light more radiant than the sun.  

Stand firm, in prayer your strength renew,  

The Son of Man will see you through.  

Lord Jesus,

You warned us to be vigilant, to guard our hearts against distraction and despair. Grant me a spirit awake to Your presence, steady in prayer, and strong in faith. 

When anxieties weigh me down, lift my eyes to Your promise. When pleasures tempt me, remind me of eternity. May I be found ready, standing before You with joy, for You are my Savior, my strength, and my hope. 

Amen.

Pericope:

VI: The Teaching Ministry in Jerusalem

EXHORTATION TO BE VIGILANT

Luke 21:34-36

Gospel Acclamation

Be vigilant at all times and pray that you may have the strength to stand before the Son of Man.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Eternal Words

 

Gospel

Luke 21:29-33

29 Jesus told his disciples a parable. “Consider the fig tree and all the other trees. 30 When their buds burst open, you see for yourselves and know that summer is now near; 31 in the same way, when you see these things happening, know that the Kingdom of God is near. 32 Amen, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. 33 Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away."

Historical Background

Jesus delivers this teaching in the Temple courts of Jerusalem during Passion Week (likely Tuesday, A.D. 30–33). The Temple was vast, capable of holding thousands of pilgrims, and the atmosphere was charged with anticipation and tension.

Pharisees, scribes, disciples, and ordinary citizens were present. Jesus used vivid parables to communicate truths about the coming of God’s kingdom.

In Jewish culture, the fig tree was a familiar symbol of Israel’s spiritual state. Its budding leaves signaled the arrival of summer, making it a natural metaphor for discerning the “signs of the times”.

Theological Context

Jesus teaches that just as people can read nature’s signs, believers must learn to read the spiritual signs pointing to the nearness of God’s reign.

Verse 32 (“this generation will not pass away until all has taken place”) emphasizes the certainty of God’s promises. Interpretations vary: some see it as referring to the destruction of Jerusalem in A.D. 70, while others view it as pointing to the ultimate fulfillment at the end of time.

Verse 33 (“Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away”) highlights the eternal authority of Christ’s teaching. Unlike worldly powers or even creation itself, the Word of God remains unshaken.

Learning Lessons

Jesus reminds us to focus on spiritual truths rather than temporary, worldly concerns. This perspective can help us prioritize what truly matters. Unlike the transient nature of the physical world, God's words are eternal. This emphasizes the lasting truth and reliability of His teachings.

The assurance that God's words will never pass away reinforces our trust in His promises. It encourages us to hold on to His teachings, especially during challenging times. Let us build our lives on the solid foundation of God's word, which remains constant and unchanging.

Reflecting on this verse can inspire us to deepen our faith and trust in the enduring power of God's word. 

Reflection for the Day

Just as budding trees signal change, we are called to be spiritually alert. God’s kingdom is not distant—it is breaking into our lives daily.

In times of upheaval, Jesus assures us that His word is unchanging and trustworthy. This invites us to anchor our lives not in fleeting circumstances but in His promises.

Pause today to notice the “signs” of God’s presence in your life—moments of grace, opportunities for mercy, or calls to deeper faith. Let Christ’s enduring word be your compass when the world feels unstable.

Heaven and earth may fade away, 

But Your words, O Lord, forever stay. 

In the midst of change, they stand so true, 

A guiding light, forever new.

When all around seems to decay, 

Your promises, Lord, will never sway. 

Through every storm and darkest night, 

Your words remain our beacon bright.

Foundations crumble, kingdoms fall, 

Yet Your truth outlasts them all. 

In every heart, Your love endures, 

A testament that always cures.

So let the world around us shift, 

In Your word, our spirits lift. 

For heaven and earth will pass away, 

But Your words, O Lord, will always stay.

Lord Jesus, 

In a world that is ever-changing, we find solace in Your eternal words. Heaven and earth may pass away, but Your promises remain steadfast and true.

Grant us the wisdom to hold onto Your teachings, to build our lives on the foundation of Your truth. In times of uncertainty and doubt, may Your words be our guiding light.

Help us to trust in Your everlasting love, to find peace in Your unchanging grace. Lord, let Your words dwell richly in our hearts, strengthening our faith and guiding our steps.

Amen.

Pericope:

VI: The Teaching Ministry in Jerusalem

THE LESSON OF THE FIG TREE

Luke 21:29-33

Gospel Acclamation

Stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand.

Reflection Source:

Conversation with Copilot

Published:

November 29, 2024, 5:18 AM