Wednesday of the Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time

Today's Scripture

The writing was on the wall today as I prayerfully prepared today’s reflection.  Although the readings speak to the end times, a more overwhelming message rose to the top as we quickly approach Advent.  Simply put, the times of trial and persecution “will lead to your giving your testimony.” (Lk 21: 13) Giving one’s testimony can be an extraordinary challenge, yet today’s Gospel adds a caveat that’s almost scary.  “You are not to prepare your defense beforehand, for I myself shall give you a wisdom in speaking.” (Lk 21:14 )  The Lord promises that the words of our testimony will not be able to be overcome by our adversaries.  This promise reminds us that we must have a radical trust in the Lord’s spirit to guide, protect and speak through us.

In the first reading, Daniel is called upon to interpret a message which has mysteriously appeared on a palace wall of the Babylonian King.  Daniel tells the King the message is in response to their evil actions, using the sacred vessels stolen from the temple in Jerusalem for their party.  Daniel fearlessly made clear that the kingdoms days have been numbered by God; that an end was coming when the kingdom would be divided.

 
Speaking fearlessly is difficult even on the days when we are fully prepared and yet the gospel suggests almost literally that the Lord will provide the wisdom and the words when the time comes.  Radical trusting here means allowing the Lord to use us as an instrument.  Radical trusting means letting the Holy Spirit give us the words to testify to Christ.  Radically trusting means not preparing a message, yet ironically could imply having a heart that is always prepared to testify to the Good News; prepared not with words, but with a faith genuinely in Christ.  Prayerfully reflect on one way you might grow more deeply in love with the Lord.  Revisit this idea throughout the day, perhaps journal about it.
 
“Holy Spirit you are our wisdom sent from heaven, enkindle in us the fire of Your Love, so that Christ is the source of all we do and say.  Spirit of wisdom have the words that leave our mouth today ‘Give glory and eternal praise’ (Daniel 3:59b) unto You O Lord. Amen!”

-Michael Montgomery