Daily Gospel Reflection for November 16, 2025

Join us as we reflect, ponder, and pray together inspired by today's Gospel.

Reflection by Fr. Edward Looney

Today's Gospel: Luke 21:5-19

A while back, I went to a local restaurant to grab a bite to eat. I expected to eat by myself. When I walked in, some parishioners happened to be sitting at a table, and they invited me to join them and meet their group of friends. The parishioners referred to me as Father throughout the evening. At one point, a person at the table who was not Catholic, quite nastily admonished them for calling me Father, commenting that it was absurd they would say something like that. This person did not like who I was or how my religious tradition referred to me. This was one of those moments when I realized that as a Catholic priest, not everyone likes you, especially those outside the Church.

Today in the Gospel, Jesus tells us,

"You will be hated by all because of my name. . . . By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”

Catholics will be hated by fellow Christians. Christians will be hated by others. The history of religious persecution and the volumes of martyrs the Church has testify to this hatred. People throughout the ages have sought to silence the Christian voice because they did not want to hear the Gospel. 

When I read the comments on social media posts pertaining to matters of faith, I often see comments from people who spew hatred toward believers and accuse us of believing in myths. You will be hated as a believer. Maybe you have experienced this already among your family or friends. What you believe and holding to it might cause you to be hated. Let the words of Jesus encourage you when you face such opposition. Persevere, and your life will be secured: “Blessed are those who are persecuted . . .”

Ponder:

Have you experienced hatred for your Catholic faith? How did you respond? 

Pray:

Jesus, make me strong in the face of opposition. Give me patience to deal accordingly. Give me words to encourage. Help me not lose hope. 

Copyright 2025 Fr. Edward Looney

Fr. Edward Looney is a priest of the Diocese of Green Bay, Marian theologian, author, and podcaster. Visit his website edwardlooney.com to learn more.