Reflection on Luke 21:25-28, 34-36 ~
Understood in the light of growth within a faith journey, Jesus’s words of “the Son of Man coming in a cloud” take on a less ominous meaning. We cannot forget that Jesus mixed both the human and divine, which continues into the current timeline. I believe that we participate individually (and in the community of living small “s” saints) in the roaring waves of an ongoing second coming that is not yet fully realized. To fear the unknown is a natural human emotion, which is countered by acknowledging the presence of Jesus inside. The peace and love of Jesus instead calms the roars to gentle ripples.
Jesus Discourses with His Disciples by James Tissot (full resolution) and for more detail at the Brooklyn Museum website.
Additional Ordinary Time Reflections
Luke 21:25-28, 34-36 – Scripture (NRSV Bible)
The Coming of the Son of Man
25 “There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. 26 People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 Then they will see ‘the Son of Man coming in a cloud’ with power and great glory. 28 Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.”
Exhortation to Watch
34 “Be on guard so that your hearts are not weighed down with dissipation and drunkenness and the worries of this life, and that day does not catch you unexpectedly, 35 like a trap. For it will come upon all who live on the face of the whole earth. 36 Be alert at all times, praying that you may have the strength to escape all these things that will take place, and to stand before the Son of Man.”
37 Every day he was teaching in the temple, and at night he would go out and spend the night on the Mount of Olives, as it was called. 38 And all the people would get up early in the morning to listen to him in the temple.
Additional Thoughts
Thank you for meditating on this daily Gospel reading and considering this Lectio Divina reflection on Luke 21:25-28, 34-36 – An Ongoing Second Coming.
Would you like to contribute related thoughts to these Lectio reflections of the Gospel readings or other contemplative material to this Web-based ministry? Do you see God’s grandeur everywhere and unconditionally enjoy sharing the love of Christ that you have inside? Are you willing to be anonymous in what you would share? If so, email me.
Prayer for young families:
Lord, let the young families of our communities get to know your joy, peace, comfort, and love despite the world’s distractions.
Attributions
This site has permission in writing from New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition (NRSVCE) to use the Luke 9 Bible passage.
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