Daily Gospel Reflection for November 28, 2024

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

Today's Gospel: Luke 2:20-28

These verses are often read to stir fear within the hearts of believers, and they definitely give us pause, especially in what sometimes seem to be "the last days." The verses preceding today’s reading speak of persecutions and trials that believers will have to endure and that, too, can raise concern in our hearts. However, let’s focus on the last verse of today’s reading, because it’s actually a promise:

“But when these signs begin to happen, stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand.”

God is laying out the blueprint for us, telling us what will happen and then giving us hope!

It's like taking your child to the hated doctor visit. As the parent, you don’t want them to be frightened, so you give them a synopsis of what will happen at the visit. You might explain, “The doctor will come in and examine you, he will listen to your heart, he will look into your mouth and ears, he will ask you some questions about how you are feeling. Then, today, he must give you a shot; it will hurt a little bit, but I will be right here with you, so you don’t need to be afraid. But be brave and we’ll get ice cream afterwards, okay?”

So yes, God is telling us what is going to happen, but he’s also telling us that there is no reason to fear. For one, he will be with us, and two, that when we see things start to happen, it’s good news for us--our salvation is on the way! So "lift up your heads," which in today’s lingo means have courage and joy, because it’s almost time to go to our forever home!

Ponder:

How can I have courage and joy in the midst of life’s trials and the craziness of today’s world?

Pray:

Lord, help me to believe Your promise of hope.

Copyright 2024 Suzanne Beck