First Reading: Ephesians 6:10-20
Finally, brethren, be strengthened in the Lord and in the might of his power. Put on the armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the deceits of the devil.
For our wrestling is not against flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers, against the rulers of this world of darkness, against the spirits of wickedness in high places.
Therefore take unto you the armor of God, that you may be able to resist in the evil day and to stand in all things perfect. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of justice, and your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace.
In all things taking the shield of faith, with which you may be able to extinguish all the fiery darts of the most wicked one. And take unto you the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God.
By all prayer and supplication praying at all times in the spirit, and in the same watching with all instance and supplication for all the saints. And for me, that speech may be given me, that I may open my mouth with confidence to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains, so that therein I may be bold to speak as I ought.
Responsorial Psalm: Psalms 144:1b, 2, 9-10
R. Blessed be the Lord, my Rock!
Alleluia: Luke 19:38; 2:14
Gospel: Luke 13:31-35
The same day there came some of the Pharisees, saying to him: Depart and get away from here, for Herod has a mind to kill you.
And he said to them: Go and tell that fox, Behold, I cast out devils and do cures today and tomorrow, and the third day I am consummated. Nevertheless I must walk today and tomorrow and the day following, because it cannot be that a prophet perish outside of Jerusalem.
Jerusalem, Jerusalem, that kills the prophets and stones them that are sent to you, how often would I have gathered your children as a bird gathers her brood under her wings, and you would not! Behold your house shall be left to you desolate. And I say to you, you shall not see me till the time comes when you shall say: Blessed is he that comes in the name of the Lord.
Reflection
Some Pharisees come to warn Jesus - Herod wants to kill you. Run away. But Jesus does not run. He says, tell that fox I will continue my work today and tomorrow, and on the third day I will finish it.
His courage comes from knowing who He is. He is not fighting against people, He is fighting against evil. That is why St. Paul tells us to put on the armor of God - truth, justice, faith, salvation, the word of God, and peace. Our real battle is not with flesh and blood.
And even while He is strong, His heart is tender. He looks at Jerusalem and weeps - how often would I have gathered your children as a hen gathers her chicks under her wings, and you would not! He is strong like a rock, but soft like a mother hen. That is how He wants us to be.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, you are my Rock. When threats come, keep me from running away. Clothe me with truth and faith. Keep my heart soft even when I have to be strong. Gather me under your wings today. Amen.
