Not A Single Stone Will Be Left On Another...

Gospel	Luke 21:5-11

The destruction of the Temple foretold

When some were talking about the Temple, remarking how it was adorned with fine stonework and votive offerings, Jesus said, ‘All these things you are staring at now – the time will come when not a single stone will be left on another: everything will be destroyed.’ And they put to him this question: ‘Master,’ they said ‘when will this happen, then, and what sign will there be that this is about to take place?’

  ‘Take care not to be deceived,’ he said ‘because many will come using my name and saying, “I am he” and, “The time is near at hand.” Refuse to join them. And when you hear of wars and revolutions, do not be frightened, for this is something that must happen but the end is not so soon.’ Then he said to them, ‘Nation will fight against nation and kingdom against kingdom. There will be great earthquakes and plagues and famines here and there; there will be fearful sights and great signs from heaven.’

Take a tour of the temple (4 minutes)

The pictures in today's reflection represent what the Temple looked like in the time of Jesus.  It was one of the most beautiful buildings in the world.  It was very substantially built of the finest materials, it was a building the shouted, "Strength" and the Jews of the time were in awe of the complex.  This, of course, was not only because of the beauty and strength of the building but because it was the home of God on earth.  Anyone might go to a synagogue to pray and to learn the scriptures and The Law and to hear preaching from the wise and the learned but only in the Temple could one worship the Lord and offer sacrifices to Him.  It was the center or Jewish life in Israel.  There was a chink in the armor.  If you look at the picture at the top right you will notice a structure with four towers that overlooks the courtyard of the temple.  This is Fortress Antonia and the rampart could easily be willed with archers whose job it would be to quell any riot by quelling the rioters.  The Jews were not pleased with their neighboring building but could do nothing about it.  Imagine the shock that accompanied the words of Jesus when He said that it was all going to be destroyed.  And it was destroyed in the year 70AD when the Romans had had enough of the rebelliousness of their Jewish citizens.  Not a stone was left on a stone, just as Jesus foretold.  It was, in effect, the end of the world for the Jews.  Today, a pagan edifice occupies the space that once was God's home on earth.  The Dome of the Rock is revered by followers of Islam as the place where Mohammed rose to heaven. If the temple, a building so beautiful and so strong can be destroyed, what does that say about our future? 

Jesus tells us to be on our guard and to watch out for those who claim to be Him.  We should not follow these fakers but we should keep our march going in the direction the Catholic Church tells us is the way. We should not be afraid when we hear of wars and rumors of wars and earthquakes and floods and destruction in many places.  The temple of God is also His Bride and Jesus promised us protection until the time of His return.  So, the Church is going through a period that will end in her purification.  The wolves in sheep's clothing will depart and peace will settle over the Church, a peace that is sent by God Himself and we will become more holy and our eyes will see more clearly and the world will hear our voices and our example will attract more and more people to the Catholic Church.  We will wait for the Lord and praise Him every day for the love that He has shown us.  While others quake in fear, we will rest in the oasis of His love.  While others are running to and fro we will sing Psalms and songs of praise.  While others are turning on each other we will offer the Lord sacrifices of our time, out talent, and out treasure and help those who live in fear.

The Church is at a crossroads today. Be patient and know that Jesus has it all under control.  The victory is His and His alone and all will know that Jesus is Lord.  A song of victory for you...