In Luke’s Gospel, as his teaching ministry in Jerusalem comes to a close, just before his Passion, Jesus speaks to his disciples of the tribulations that are imminent, reminding them that they must be vigilant at all times, and pray that they have the strength to escape the tribulations and to stand before the Son of Man. Some people will die of fright, Jesus says, but the disciples know the Lord, know how to remain in right relationship with him, and thus know that their redemption is at hand. They must continue to trust, therefore, in the promises given through the prophet Jeremiah: that the just shoot that is Jesus shall do what is right and just in the land.
We want to know the ways of the Lord; we would rather have certainty than signs, definite answers rather than dismay. But, as Psalm 25 reminds us, the friendship of the Lord is with those who fear him, and his covenant, for their instruction. It is openness to this instruction and trust in the Lord our justice that allow all Christians to stand erect and raise their heads in moments of trial and tribulation. The psalmist prays, Your ways, o Lord, make known to me; teach me your paths; we echo this prayer as we wait for the coming of Christ.
Yet, as St. Paul tells the Thessalonians, we have simply to conduct ourselves in such a way as to please God, according to the instructions given to us through the Lord Jesus to be assured of eternal life. If we are open to God’s love active in our lives, then the Lord will make us increase and abound in love for one another and for all – a sure way for us to be blameless in holiness before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus. Constant vigilance, as the refrain goes, is essential. Don’t lose sight of the goal that is eternal life; don’t lose sight of the face of God who loves you and who calls you to union with him; don’t lose sight of the love that is ours, but remain strong in heart, dedicated to the one Lord Jesus Christ.
This post is based on Fr. Pat’s Scripture classes and homilies.
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