"Then they will see
the Son of Man
coming in a cloud
with power and great glory.
But when these things
begin to take place,
stand up and lift up your heads,
because your redemption
is drawing near."
(Luke 21:27-28)
The hope in the promise of Jesus' return provides comfort and encouragement, especially during difficult times. This encourages us to stay vigilant and aware of the spiritual and worldly events around us.
The instruction to "stand up and lift up your heads" suggests that we should face the future with confidence and courage, knowing that our redemption is near. The mention of redemption highlights the ultimate salvation that we will receive. It reassures us that despite the trials and tribulations, there is a promise of eternal life with Christ.
Reflecting on these verses can inspire us to live with hope, vigilance, and confidence in God's promises.
In the sky, a cloud appears,
With power and glory, it draws near.
The Son of Man, in radiant light,
Brings hope and joy to end the night.
When signs of change begin to show,
Stand tall, let your courage grow.
Lift up your heads, cast off your fears,
For redemption's dawn is finally here.
Through trials and tribulations past,
A promise fulfilled, at last.
With hearts uplifted, voices raise,
In awe and wonder, sing His praise.
The time has come, the moment clear,
Our Savior's presence, drawing near.
In faith and hope, we stand as one,
For our redemption has begun.
Lord Jesus, In the midst of our trials and tribulations, We look to the heavens with hope and faith. As we see the signs of Your coming, Grant us the strength to stand firm and lift our heads high.
With power and great glory, You will return, Bringing redemption and salvation to Your faithful. Help us to remain vigilant and courageous, Trusting in Your promise of eternal life.
Lord, fill our hearts with Your peace, and guide us through the challenges we face. May we always remember that our redemption is near, and find comfort in Your everlasting love.
Amen.
Pericope:
VI: The Teaching Ministry in Jerusalem
THE GREAT TRIBULATION / THE COMING OF THE SON OF MAN
Luke 21:20-24 / 25-28
Gospel Acclamation
Stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand.
Gospel | Luke 21:20-28
20 Jesus said to his disciples: “When you see Jerusalem surrounded by armies, know that its desolation is at hand. 21 Then those in Judea must flee to the mountains. Let those within the city escape from it, and let those in the countryside not enter the city, 22 for these days are the time of punishment when all the Scriptures are fulfilled. 23 Woe to pregnant women and nursing mothers in those days, for a terrible calamity will come upon the earth and a wrathful judgment upon this people. 24 They will fall by the edge of the sword and be taken as captives to all the Gentiles; and Jerusalem will be trampled underfoot by the Gentiles until the times of the Gentiles are fulfilled. 25 “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on earth nations will be in dismay, perplexed by the roaring of the sea and the waves. 26 People will die of fright in anticipation of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 And then they will see the Son of Man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. 28 But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand.”
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot
