Luke 21:12-19

“But not a hair of your head will perish. By your endurance you will gain your souls.” vss. 18-19

As Luke recounts the apocalyptic words of Jesus his vivid descriptions were not imaginary. These scenes of betrayal and arrest were no prediction; this is what the first century readers of his gospel were actually experiencing. And through all the persecution they took the remembered reassurances to heart…and they endured, trusting that not a hair of their heads would perish, even if they were martyred. As we read these verses we’re likely to wonder about our willingness to continue in faith in the face of persecution. Even today, in parts of our world, followers of Jesus are being put to death for what th34Then Jesus said, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.” And they cast lots to divide his clothing.ey believe. What if we faced that degree of opposition? Would we be known for our endurance? Or would our opponents not even know that we are Christian? And if we were arrested, would there be evidence to convict us? Of course, in the absence of persecution we can only speculate about how we would respond. Undoubtedly, some would quickly renounce faith…it wouldn’t even be a big deal for them. But others would hang in there and even use the opposition as an opportunity for testimony. Not even threats of death would be enough to divert them from the Way of Jesus. And with their endurance will come salvation!

Thought for the Day: What might cause me to renounce my faith?