"Watch out that
you are not deceived.
For many will come
in my name, claiming,
‘I am he,’ and,
‘The time is near.’
Do not follow them."
(Luke 21:8)
Jesus emphasizes the importance of discernment. We must be vigilant and discerning to avoid being misled by false prophets or deceptive teachings. Many will come claiming to be the Messiah or to have special knowledge about the end times. Let us be cautious and not to be easily swayed by such claims.
Jesus advises His followers to stay true to their faith and not to follow those who falsely claim to be Him. This encourages us to remain steadfast in our beliefs and to seek truth through prayer and scripture. While Jesus speaks about the end times, it also reminds us to live our lives in a way that is always prepared for His return. This means living with integrity, faith, and a focus on spiritual growth.
Reflecting on these lessons can help us navigate our faith journey with greater wisdom and steadfastness.
"See that you not be deceived," He warned with care,
"For many will come, claiming they wear
My name, saying, 'I am he,' and 'The time has come.'
Do not follow them, for they are but some."
In a world of shadows, where truth can be bent,
Stand firm in the light, be vigilant, be sent.
False prophets will rise, with words that beguile,
But hold to the truth, walk the narrow mile.
For in the heart of faith, discernment must reign,
To sift through the falsehoods, to bear the strain.
"Do not follow them," His voice echoes clear,
Stay true to His teachings, let go of the fear.
In the end, it's the truth that will set us free,
A beacon of light for all to see.
Guardians of truth, we stand and we fight,
With hearts full of faith, in the darkest of night.
Lord Jesus, You warned us, "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." We come before You, seeking Your wisdom and guidance.
Grant us the discernment to recognize false teachings, And the strength to stay true to Your word. Help us to remain vigilant and steadfast in our faith, Trusting in Your truth and love.
May we always seek Your voice, And follow Your path with unwavering hearts. Protect us from deception and lead us in Your light, For You are our true Savior and King.
In Your holy name, we pray.
Amen.
Pericope:
VI: The Teaching Ministry in Jerusalem
THE DESTRUCTION OF THE TEMPLE FORETOLD / THE SIGNS OF THE END
Luke 21:5-6/7-11
Gospel Acclamation
Remain faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.
Gospel | Luke 21:5-11
5 While some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings, Jesus said, 6 “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.” 7 Then they asked him, “Teacher, when will this happen? And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?” 8 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! 9 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.” 10 Then he said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom. 11 There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to place; and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.”
Reflection Source:
Conversation with Copilot
