A reading from the holy gospel according to Luke 21:5-11

5 While some people were speaking about how the temple was adorned with costly stones and votive offerings,
Jesus said,
6 “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.”
7 Then they asked him, “Teacher, when will this happen? And what sign will there be when all these things are about to happen?”
8 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!
9 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.”
10 Then he said to them, “Nation will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom.
11 There will be powerful earthquakes, famines, and plagues from place to place; and awesome sights and mighty signs will come from the sky.”

Reflection: Do not be terrified.

In the history of the world, many natural as well as man-made calamities such as earthquakes, floods, storms, tsunamis and wars have already happened and many more will happen. Massive destructions and even divisions have come and gone. False prophets have appeared before and many more will be visiting places in the future. With the deadly Covid-19 virus that has infected and killed millions of people, ravaged our economy and instilled fear to many, the question is still the same: Is the end of the world as we know it near?

Jesus says that such calamities must happen but it will not immediately be the end. Moreover, he specifically told His listeners that no one knows the day or the hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father (Matthew 24:36). The message to us therefore is not to be swayed by false prophets and to avoid speculation. What is important is to be prepared at any time by taking care of our loving relationship with God and with others.

Whatever will happen, let us keep the faith. Yes, our faith in a loving God will see us through. No need to be terrified. Instead, let us always live in the present moment with joyful hope for the second coming of Christ. Let our faith keep us longing for our total redemption that will enable us to rise with Him on the last day.

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In this passage, Jesus responds to His disciples as they marvel at the grandeur of the temple, predicting its destruction and warning of tumultuous events to come. He speaks of wars, earthquakes, famines, and terrors, emphasizing that these are signs but not the end. His words remind us that our faith must stand firm amid uncertainty.

The disciples were awestruck by the beauty of the temple, a symbol of stability and God’s presence. However, Jesus shifted their focus from the temporal to the eternal, teaching them — and us — that earthly structures, no matter how magnificent, are fleeting. The challenges He describes such as disasters, conflicts, and fearsome signs, paint a picture of chaos, but they also provide an opportunity for faith to shine.

In today’s world, we encounter our own “wars and rumors of wars.” Natural disasters, pandemics, political unrest, and personal struggles often leave us feeling unmoored. Like the disciples, we may yearn for assurance and clarity. Jesus does not promise immediate deliverance from hardship, but He assures us that God’s purpose prevails. “Do not be terrified,” He says, pointing us toward trust instead of fear.

How do we live out this trust? First, we recognize that life’s uncertainties are not signs of God’s absence but opportunities to deepen our faith. Instead of clinging to things that perish such as our achievements, possessions, or even our routines, we root ourselves in God’s unshakable promises. Hebrews 13:8 reminds us, “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” When the world feels uncertain, we anchor ourselves in this unchanging truth.

Second, we embrace the call to persevere. Jesus warns of trials, but these moments refine our character and reveal God’s glory. Consider the early Christians, who faced persecution yet spread the gospel with boldness and hope. In your struggles, remember that God equips you with His strength. “In quietness and trust is your strength” (Isaiah 30:15).

Finally, we become bearers of hope. Amid crises, our faith can inspire others. By living with peace and assurance, we point people toward the eternal kingdom that cannot be shaken. This is not passive waiting but active faith—a life that reflects God’s love, justice, and mercy.

As we face personal storms, know that Jesus walks with us. The temple may crumble, and the world may tremble, but God’s presence remains steadfast. Psalm 46:1-2 declares, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore, we will not fear, though the earth give way.”

Take heart! The trials we face are not the end but a reminder to lift our eyes toward the eternal hope we have in Christ. Let us live with courage, rooted in God’s promises, and become lights in a world longing for peace. “Do not be terrified,” Jesus says. Trust in Him, and you will find strength to endure and hope to share.