Luke 21:12-19 NRSVue
12“But before all this occurs, they will arrest you and persecute you; they will hand you over to synagogues and prisons, and you will be brought before kings and governors because of my name. 13This will give you an opportunity to testify. 14So make up your minds not to prepare your defense in advance, 15for I will give you words and a wisdom that none of your opponents will be able to withstand or contradict. 16You will be betrayed even by parents and siblings, by relatives and friends, and they will put some of you to death. 17You will be hated by all because of my name. 18But not a hair of your head will perish. 19By your endurance you will gain your souls.
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Reflection on Luke 21:12-19
Inspiration from 2025-11-26 Daily Prayer
Jesus foretells the coming persecutions for his followers, but he promises salvation to those who endure to the end. Lord, you have told us that you will never forsake us or fail us. Help us to have the courage to place our complete trust in you, knowing that your Holy Spirit is within us.
In his passion and death on the cross, Jesus gave us the example of perseverance to the very end, despite the mocking and jeering of his persecutors. We pray for the grace of fidelity to the God who loves us with an everlasting love.
Further reflection
Jesus does not promise that life will be easy for his disciples. What he does promise is that he will give us words and wisdom to hold fast to the Good News. This Good News includes the promise of our resurrection.
I pray: ‘Jesus, I admire your endurance. You put up with so much frustration and opposition; you were betrayed and put to death. Give me a share of that endurance, so that I may not crumble when things get tough!’
When I hear Jesus speak in this ominous way, how do I react? Does it stir my blood or leave me cold? Does it seem somehow relevant or utterly distant from me?
What is my experience of conflict and betrayal?
How does Jesus' promise to be with me all the way move me?