Your endurance will win you your life

Dan. 5:1-6.13-14.16-17.23-28, Lk. 21:12-19. Today's first reading presents us with the account of the hand writing on the wall when king Belshazzar gave a great banquet for his noblemen. This hand writing serves as a warning to the king and his kingdom to forestall the impending doom. The recent happening around us could also be the means at which God communicates His will to us and this calls for caution. The emergence of internet and technological advancement calls us to be cautious of what we say and do, where we say them and how we go about what we do; else our destruction is deemed imminent.

In today's Gospel, Jesus also caution His disciples on the need to be watchful and become more patience: "your endurance will win you your life." Jesus foretold hard times; times of hatred, persecution and martyrdom. The prophecy of Jesus has come true in the history and even more in our time today. Speaking about Syrian martyrs of our times, Pope Francis said: “Today we have more martyrs than in the early centuries.” Martyrs witness to the Gospel with life. They possess irresistible wisdom of the Spirit to defend their faith. They experience unfailing providence of God in their trials. They know that God’s promises are trustworthy and have the patience and endurance to walk the faith amidst obstacles till the end. According to the promise, even as they suffer physical death, they will not suffer eternal loss, because ‘their endurance will win life for them.’ St Cyprian says: "When persecution comes, God's soldiers are put to the test, and heaven is open to the martyrs.” We can win the test of faith under any trying circumstances knowing that God is by our side and His assurance will never fail us. 

May the Lord help us to always understand the leading signs of God around us! Amen!! Good morning and have a wonderful day!!!