Reflection
In the Gospel, Jesus invites his disciples to consider the fig tree and how their buds burst open and indicate that summer is near. In like manner, Jesus says that there are things that will happen that will indicate that the time of Jerusalem’s fall is near. Jesus also tells us that “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.”
When Jesus says that “heaven and earth will pass away,” this is not just a reference to the end of time. It is also a reference to the destruction of the Temple. This is because the Temple in Jerusalem was considered a microcosm of the universe. The sanctuary of the Temple represented heaven. In fact, the veil of the Temple had images of the sun, the moon, and the stars. The courts of the Temple represented the earth. When Jesus promises that heaven and earth will pass away, he is predicting the destruction of the Temple.
Jesus not only predicts the destruction, but he also says exactly when it will happen, namely, before “this generation” passes away. Now, a generation, in the bible, means forty years. Jesus was crucified in A.D. 30 on the 15th day of Nisan, which was after the evening Passover and was the day of preparation before the Sabbath. The Romans began to lay siege to Jerusalem in A.D. 70, three days before the Passover. In this way, the forty years were completed, the microcosm of the universe was destroyed, and yet Jesus’ words remain.
Jesus’ words always have, and always will, stood the test of time. His words are eternal, and therefore we should place our trust and hope dedicated to living a life in imitation of Jesus. While we wait for the Lord's physical return in glory, we know His presence is with us through the Holy Spirit who dwells in our hearts. The Lord Jesus comes daily and frequently to those who long for Him and He speaks tenderly to our hearts like a lover who whispers in the ear of the beloved. His Word shows us the way to the Father gives us the hope of eternal life.
Today’s Question for Prayer and Reflection
Do you recognize God’s presence within, and do you listen to His word?
Sources for today’s reflection: https://epriest.com/reflections/view/2897 and https://www.dailyscripture.net/daily-meditation/?ds_year=2024&date=nov29