First Reading
Jeremiah 33:14-16
“Behold, the days are coming, says the LORD, when I will fulfil the promise I made to the house of Israel and the house of Judah. In those days and at that time I will cause a righteous Branch to spring forth for David; and he shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will dwell securely. And this is the name by which it will be called: `The LORD is our righteousness.’
Second Reading
1 Thessalonians 3:12–4:2
and may the Lord make you increase and abound in love to one another and to all men, as we do to you, so that he may establish your hearts unblamable in holiness before our God and Father, at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints. Finally, brethren, we beseech and exhort you in the Lord Jesus, that as you learned from us how you ought to live and to please God, just as you are doing, you do so more and more. For you know what instructions we gave you through the Lord Jesus.
Gospel
Luke 21:25-28, 34-36
“And there will be signs in sun and moon and stars, and upon the earth distress of nations in perplexity at the roaring of the sea and the waves, men fainting with fear and with foreboding of what is coming on the world; for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. And then they will see the Son of man coming in a cloud with power and great glory. Now when these things begin to take place, look up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.” “But take heed to yourselves lest your hearts be weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life, and that day come upon you suddenly like a snare; for it will come upon all who dwell upon the face of the whole earth. But watch at all times, praying that you may have strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of man.”
Reflection
These verses speak of significant cosmic disturbances and societal turmoil as signs of the approaching end times. They serve as a stark reminder of the eventual return of Christ and the need for preparedness.
Verses 25-28 highlight the dramatic signs that will appear in the heavens and on earth, causing fear and confusion among people. These events are not just natural disasters but cosmic signs that signify the coming of the Son of Man. For believers, these signs are not a reason to fear but to stand firm and confident, knowing that their redemption is near. It is a call to lift our heads in hope and anticipation of Jesus’ return.
Verses 34-36 warn against becoming complacent or distracted by the pleasures and worries of life. The exhortation to be watchful and pray underscores the importance of spiritual vigilance. It is easy to become overwhelmed by daily life, but Jesus urges His followers to remain focused on their spiritual journey, to avoid being caught off guard by the suddenness of His return. The call to pray continuously is a reminder of the need for spiritual readiness and seeking strength from God to withstand the trials that come.
In essence, these passages remind us to live with an eternal perspective, being aware of the signs of the times, and staying spiritually alert. They encourage us to maintain a strong relationship with God, to avoid being weighed down by earthly distractions, and to live in anticipation of Christ’s return, always prepared to stand before Him with faith and hope.