Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Luke 21: 12-19

Daily Gospel | November 23, 2011

Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Luke 21:12-19. 
Before all this happens, however, they will seize and persecute you, they will hand you over to the synagogues and to prisons, and they will have you led before kings and governors because of my name.It will lead to your giving testimony. Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking that all your adversaries will be powerless to resist or refute.You will even be handed over by parents, brothers, relatives, and friends, and they will put some of you to death. You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives. 


When I do something, I always ask myself, "What is my reason?" Most of the time, the answer is just because I want it. I want to be rich, famous, powerful, and, most of the time, I don't know.

But I think it is very important to find a reason more than worldly dreams or aspirations such as wealth and prestige but something ideal such as faith, hope, and love.

It is better to be persecuted for fighting for something that you believe in rather than living a mediocre life where you don't know what your are really living for.

The gospel talks about the faithfuls who are willing to give up everything because of their faith. They don't care if they will be persecuted, imprisoned, or even be killed as long as they can spread the word of the Lord. But with perseverance and faith, the Lord promises wisdom and life; a life without death.

Today a lot of people such as presidents of countries, activists, priests, teachers, social entrepreneurs still encounter persecution, repudiation, and death because they fight for something.

But I think, regardless on what you do, one should always have that reason so life can be meaningful. A short meaningful life is better than a long mediocre one. One does not need to be "somebody" in order to have a meaningful life. One just needs to do what one loves to do.

And Christs just told as to love. To what extent? "Love just I have loved you!" A love that does not ask for something in return. A humble and pure love. A love that is willing to give up everything including his family, friends, and life just because of love. A love that will endure forever.

Hence, I think, one should always ask oneself, "What do I love? Where can I love? and How can I love?"

One should no longer ask "Why should I love?" because one loves because one loves. Nothing more. Nothing less.

To God be the Glory!