To read the texts click on the texts: Dan 5:1-6,13-14,16-17,23-28; Lk 21:12-19
These verses
are part of Luke’s Eschatological Discourse. The Greek word “Eschaton” is
translated as “the last things”, “the things of the next life”. The main point
of these verses is to prepare the disciples for the coming trial by exhorting
them to regard trials as an occasion for bearing witness.
The text begins by
telling the disciples what they (the persecutors) will do namely arrest you,
persecute you etc. It then goes on to advise the disciples what they must do in
the face of this persecution, namely that they must bear witness but not be
obsessed with the anxiety of preparing their defence. The reason for this is
because of what Jesus will do, namely, give the disciples wisdom to counter any
argument of the opponents. The text ends with an assurance of God’s support and
protection on those who endure.
The
persecution of the disciples, however, does not exceed what Jesus himself will
experience. He, too, will be arrested and brought before Pilate and Herod. It
is Jesus himself therefore who will give the disciples the content of what they
are to say.
The gospel
offers not a way of predicting the end of the world but the spiritual resources
to cope with the challenges of life. In times of distress the disciples of
Jesus are called not to throw their hands up in despair, but to be unafraid. It
is a fact that following Jesus who is The Truth will have repercussions and
consequences, some of which may be disastrous. However, it is in these
circumstances that perseverance and endurance is called for. This is the test
of our faith and courage in the promises of the Lord.
Thus we can
opt for one of two ways of proceeding. One is to focus so much on prophesies of
the future, that they frighten us into idle speculation and inaction. The other
is to dare to commit ourselves and actions to make a difference here and now.
Good explanation - helps one to be positive in life. Thank you Fr. Errol.
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