First Reading
Malachi 3:19-20
1. “But for you who fear my name, there will arise the sun of justice with its healing rays.” When you read this do you interpret “you who fear my name” as cowering in terror? Or being filled with wonder and awe when you think of God’s name?
2. Name some ways in which justice can heal. Is there any kind of healing you would like to bring about in the world through justice? Where do you think “alleviating the grave evil of poverty” should fall on the priorities of the Church’s mission? Is it optional?
Second Reading
2 Thessalonians 3:7-12
1. Paul says to the Christians in Thessalonica, “We wanted to present ourselves as a model for you.” Are there models for you in the present age? Which would you name: saints, or leaders/people in the Church, world or community? How might you imitate them?
2. What does St. Paul name that drove him to “work in toil and drudgery, night and day”? What would he have toiled at today? Do you work to bring about the kingdom? How?
Gospel
Luke 21:5-19
1. Jesus says, “Remember, you are not to prepare your defense beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking.” How does this statement and “Not a hair of your head will perish” impact your trust in God?
2. Are Jesus’ words relevant for us today in the 21st century? What does Pope Francis say are the two important points for us in this Gospel?
Jesus predicts that his disciples will have to suffer painful trials and persecution for his sake. He reassures them, however, first, not to let oneself be fooled by false prophets nor to be paralyzed by fear.
Secondly, to live this time of expectation as a time of witness and perseverance. …
saying: “Not a hair of your head will perish” (Gospel). This reminds us that we are completely in God’s hands! The trials we encounter for our faith and our commitment to the Gospel are occasions to give witness; we must not distance ourselves from the Lord, but instead abandon ourselves even more to him, to the power of his Spirit and his grace.
Angelus
Saint Peter's Square
17 Nov. 2013
