Alleluia LUKE 21:28 R. Alleluia, alleluia. Stand erect and raise your heads because your redemption is at hand. R. Alleluia, alleluia.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to Luke 21:29-33 Jesus told his disciples a parable. “Consider the fig tree and all the other trees. When their buds burst open, you see for yourselves and know that summer is now near; in the same way, when you see these things happening, know that the Kingdom of God is near. Amen, I say to you, this generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.”
REFLECTION: ...when you see these things happening, know that the Kingdom of God is near.
Can you read the times? Some people claim they know when it is going to rain. Animals have been known to exhibit unusual behavior before a storm.
The fig tree was a common source of food in Israel. It bore food in the early spring and in the autumn. When the fig leaves appear, they are accompanied by a crop of small knobs. These knobs or taqsh are forerunners of the real figs. The Talmud (teachings of the ancient rabbis on the Jewish scriptures) said that the first fruit came the day after Passover. It was their belief that when the Messiah came he would usher in the kingdom of God at Passover time.
The early signs of a change in seasons are evident to all. We can see a soul changing when they first know about God. Their hearts are moving. One notices their transformation. They become spiritually alive. Their growth matures as they trust and love in God. The fruits of His Kingdom will be present --love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control.
And as we await the coming of the Lord, the Holy Spirit dwells in our hearts, works in us and prepares us for that joyful event.
God Bless You
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