Daily Devotional for June 23

 

June 23                                                      Luke 21:5-19

          "By your endurance you will gain your life."

In today's passage, Jesus describes the end times. He explains
that the material things we hold dear in this life will all be taken
away at the end of the age. In referring to the Temple, he says
that "the days will come when there shall not be left here one
stone upon another that will not be thrown down." In other
words, "Have fun with your cars, cameras, and computers,
but keep in mind that they are all temporary toys that will
break. In the process of enjoying them, don't forget to play
also with the toys of the heart, with faith, hope, and love. The
toys of the heart will never break. They are everlasting."

When asked when the end times will be, Jesus is very clear
about being unclear. He says, "Take heed that you are not led
astray; for many will come in my name, saying, 'I am the one!'
and, 'The time is at hand.' Do not go after them." He goes
on to talk about nations rising against nations. There will be
earthquakes, plagues, and famines. People will be persecuted
and even be put to death. But even then, Jesus says, "The end
will not be at once."

So where does that leave us? With the wonderful verse at the
end of the passage: "By your endurance you will gain your
lives." The Greek word that Luke uses for "endurance" is
hypomone. It means patience under trials, or steadfastness.
It means having a spirit that is strong enough to overcome the
trials of life. It does not mean sitting back and waiting for trials
to be over; it means getting up and doing what is right, even
in the face of fierce resistance.

Hypomone calls us to fully embrace the values Christ taught,
regardless of how popular or unpopular they may be at the
moment. It urges us to develop in our hearts the most
indestructible of toys - faith, hope, and love. There is no
better way to play and win the game of life.

​

From The Road to Emmaus - An inclusive devotional Edited by Joseph W. Houle

Emmaus House of Prayer - Washington D.C.198