By Thamajoy Reang csc –
Readings: Dan 2:31 – 45; Lk 21:5 – 11
Today’s gospel reading tells me to hold on to God in whatever situation of life I am in. Jesus tells me that I may hear about great wars and tumults or about one nation or kingdom standing against the other, or there may be earthquakes or famines in the world.
When I look at the current situation of the pandemic, I am reminded of what Lord Jesus has spoken through the gospel of today. I see many people suffering and fighting for survival. Many people have already died and still people are experiencing hopelessness in life. The faith of the people is shaken like during the earthquakes, and still many people experience no answers to the question of their faith in God.
I see many people facing crisis socially, educationally, financially, and even spiritually. I often hear people saying that God does not listen to our prayers. He does not pay heed to our cry and heal us from these diseases. Is God there? If he is there, where is he? O God, we need you, where are you? This is the cry of the people and of me too. God seems to be silent during times of our need, he gives us no peace but suffering. But then this is what Jesus promised me once. He said all these things may happen in the times to come where many of us will be confused in living our lives.
As Jesus promised great wars to happen in my life, he has also promised grace through today’s gospel. He has asked us not to be tempted to go after all the sayings of the people and be influenced by them. He has asked us to hold on to God who will never let us astray from his presence and love. He will give us the prize of faith and place us in the heavenly home with him. Let us place our faith and trust in God.