Reflection for November 29 Saturday of the 34th Week in Ordinary Time: Luke 21:34-36

Gospel: Luke 21:34-36

Jesus said to his disciples: “Beware that your hearts do not become drowsy from carousing and drunkenness and the anxieties of daily life, and that day catch you by surprise like a trap.

For that day will assault everyone who lives on the face of the earth. Be vigilant at all times and pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man.”

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Reflection:

What is the best protection against the uncertainties and anxieties of this world?

Our greatest protection is our connection with Jesus—a connection that costs us nothing but a little of our time. We nurture this connection when we pray, when we talk to Him, and when we open our hearts in fervent, daily communication. Prayer is not just a ritual; it is our lifeline, our personal encounter with the Savior who never leaves us.

What does prayer do for us?

Prayer fills our hearts with peace. It steadies us amidst the struggles and complexities of daily life. An active prayer life strengthens us and prepares us for whatever life may bring—unexpected challenges, trials, or storms.

Calamities, unforeseen disasters, and the threat of wars may come at any moment. Often, they catch us by surprise and disturb our peace. But when we are spiritually prepared, when our hearts are anchored in prayer, we can face these trials with calm and resilience. We learn to cope emotionally, trusting that God walks with us through every uncertainty.

Life is so fragile. We do not know what may happen tomorrow, what illness may touch us, or what dangers may arise in our world. The threats of war and violence in many parts of the world remind us that peace is not guaranteed—it is something we must seek, pray for, and allow God to cultivate in our hearts and communities.

Through prayer, we invite Jesus into every part of our lives. We ask Him to heal, to guide, and to make our world more peaceful. As Jesus Himself taught the disciples: “Pray that you have the strength to escape the tribulations that are imminent and to stand before the Son of Man” (Luke 21:36).

We are called to pray not only for ourselves but for each other—for our families, our communities, and our world. Prayer is our shield, our source of courage, and the channel through which God’s peace flows into our lives.

So today, let us reflect: Are we truly making time to connect with Jesus every day? Are we cultivating a prayer life that strengthens our hearts for the trials we cannot foresee? – Marino J. Dasmarinas