Wednesday of the Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time

Today's Mass Readings

Preface: Throughout this coming week, we will ponder the daily Mass readings from the perspective of the liturgical texts given to us in the Roman Missal and the Lectionary—the entrance and communion antiphons, the responsorial refrains and the gospel acclamations. These texts provide a unique perspective on the scripture passages of each day and often provide a key for understanding the profound spiritual interconnections between these liturgical readings.

It is a tradition at Conception Abbey that a mass is celebrated during Thanksgiving week as a commemoration of the departed members of our monastic community and the deceased loved ones of our personal families. The readings are of the weekday.

The entrance antiphon summarizes in a brief sentence, the entire mystery of our redemption in Christ: “Just as Jesus died and has risen again, so through Jesus God will bring with him those who have fallen asleep; and as in Adam all die, so also in Christ will all be brought to life” (Cf. 1 Thess 4:14; 1 Cor 15:22). In the first reading from the Book of Revelation we see the vision of these holy ones who have been brought to life in Christ singing the triumphant song of Moses and of the Lamb: “All the nations will worship before you, for your righteous acts have been revealed” (Rev 15:4). This song is echoed again in the responsorial refrain “Great and wonderful are all your works, Lord, mighty God!” (Rev 13:3b) and in the accompanying verses from Psalm 98: “The Lord has made his salvation known: in the sight of the nations he has revealed his justice” (Ps 98:2).

In the Gospel today from St. Luke, Jesus describes the persecution which his followers will endure for their faith, even the most painful of all maltreatment, betrayal by friends and the members of one’s own family. Yet, he also gives a word of reassurance: “You will be hated by all because of my name, but not a hair on your head will be destroyed. By your perseverance you will secure your lives” (Lk 21:17-19). The communion antiphon reminds us of the depth of God’s love which assures the crown of eternal life to all who endure to the end with faithfulness: “Let perpetual light shine upon them, O Lord, with your Saints for ever, for you are merciful” (Cf. 4 Esdr 2:35, 34). The same message is heard today’s gospel acclamation: “Remain faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life” (Rev 2:10c). Our prayer today is for those who have passed before us through the realm of death that they may indeed experience the fullness of life in the new and heavenly Jerusalem.

Thought for today: What is the meaning of perseverance in my life? What struggle am I called to bear patiently?

Reflection by Br. Michael Marcotte, OSB