By Shanborlang Mawrie csc –
Readings: Dan 5:1-6,13-14,16-17,23-28; Lk 21:12-19
In life, we often try to find out the meaning of our existence but sometimes we fail to understand the real meaning of it.
Today’s gospel teaches us that our life is to bear witness to the life of Christ in the world. Out of his love for his own people, Jesus willingly shed his blood. He calls us to do the same. To witness Christ is to have and live the attitude of Christ till it reaches a point where we have to shed our precious blood for others. There is no greater love than giving our life for others.
Jesus is preparing us to meet the challenges of life. It may not be like the persecutions and martyrdom of our early Christians, but in small ways in our daily life. Are we ready to face the challenges of the present times to keep up our faith in Christ? We are living in this world where people are crying because of injustice, inequality, and oppression done to them by those in power. Even the Christians are facing similar issues in some parts of the world because of their belief in Christ.
In the midst all these trials and tribulations, we are called to stand together and give our life for them. As humans, we cannot do it by our own power. We need strength from above which is what Jesus promises us with sufficient grace and wisdom to face any trial and answer any challenges in our life’s journey.
The best example is from the life of Prophet Daniel where God works in his life by giving him sufficient grace and wisdom to read and interpret his word to the king. If we cling on to the Lord, he will work wonders in our life and we will be joyful and hopeful even amidst suffering.