Gospel Reflection Nov 16 – Fr. T.A. Carter
Sunday, November 16
Thirty-third Sunday in Ordinary Time
Luke 21: 5-19
Gospel:
While some people were speaking about
how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings,
Jesus said, “All that you see here–
the days will come when there will not be left
a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down.”
Then they asked him,
“Teacher, when will this happen?
And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?”
He answered,
“See that you not be deceived,
for many will come in my name, saying,
‘I am he,’ and ‘The time has come.’
Do not follow them!
When you hear of wars and insurrections,
do not be terrified; for such things must happen first,
but it will not immediately be the end.”
Then he said to them,
“Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.
There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues
from place to place;
and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.
“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.”
Gospel Reflection:
“By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”
In this weekend’s Gospel, Jesus reminds us that even the most magnificent and enduring things of this world will one day pass away. His words unsettle the disciples, as they do us, because they confront us with a truth we often avoid: nothing earthly lasts forever.
This passage echoes the Catholic theme of memento mori – “Remember that you must die.” This theme is especially poignant during the month of November as we celebrate All Souls Day and continue to pray for all the faithful departed.
Last week on pilgrimage in Rome, I was reminded just how prevalent this theme is in the basilicas and churches there. In sculptures and images all around the city, even in St. Peter’s Basilica, you see the skull and cross bones, a coffin, a winged hourglass, a scythe… symbols of our frail mortality. Many of the saints, even St. Francis of Assisi, are depicted holding or contemplating a skull as a reminder that they knew the importance of preparing for death, just as we must. In the Byzantine Divine Liturgy we pray, “That the end of our life may be Christian, painless, unashamed and peaceful, and for a good defense before the awesome Judgement Seat of Christ.”
Far from being morbid, this reminder helps us live with purpose and faith. Recognizing the fragility of all earthly things turns our hearts toward what truly lasts: God’s love, mercy, and the eternal life He promises. When we keep our mortality before us, we learn to treasure what is eternal and to persevere in hope, confident that death is not the end, but the doorway to eternal life in Christ.
Jesus warns us not to be deceived or terrified by chaos, conflict, or suffering. Instead, He calls us to perseverance. The trials that come are not signs of God’s absence, but opportunities to bear witness to His presence. When we face uncertainty, loss, or opposition for our faith, Jesus promises something profound: “I Myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking.” He assures us that He is with us—not only at the end of time, but in every moment of trial.
As His disciples, we are invited to build our lives not on the passing beauty of this world, but on the enduring foundation of Christ Himself. In Him, even in the midst of turmoil, we find courage, peace, and the promise of life that endures forever. May we hold fast to Christ, trusting that His presence is our true security and our strength.
Father T.A. Carter