My Dear People, 

As we approach the end of the liturgical year, the readings have to do with apocalyptic times. It is important to recall the transition of time, what we love and appreciate, while  understanding that the way things were will never be the same again. We must and need to move forward.  

The people of Jerusalem were no different.  They admired the temple, appreciated how great it was, and how beautifully it was adorned. Indeed, they were proud of it. They felt proud to live in Israel where there was such a magnificent piece of architecture. They derived a sense of value from a physical structure; something they had nothing to do with, except that they were born and lived in the area. 

Jesus made them think, saying to them: “The day will come when there will not be left a stone upon another.” It was hard for them to fathom. The temple had been there their whole lives, and in a sense, they strongly identified with the temple. 

 Jesus gave the prophetic oracle of the destruction of both the temple and the city of Jerusalem. His discourse is eschatological: that is, it discusses the last things. He also uses apocalyptic language to bring comfort to His followers, an important purpose of apocalyptic writings. He promises to be with them in adversity, even sharing His wisdom to enable refutation of enemies, which can include family members and friends (Luke 21:16).

The enemies of Stephen could not refute his long exposition in favor of Christianity.   Fidelity to Jesus may lead to loss of life, as it did for Stephen and the Apostle James (Acts 12:1-2). True discipleship, however, will assure everlasting life with the Lord, who also died because of His dedication to the Father and His love for all God’s children.

In the Gospel Jesus mentions to the Apostles, “Before the temple is destroyed, they will persecute you, and will hand you over to the synagogues and prisons. They will have you led before kings and governors because of my name. It will lead to your giving testimony.” Then Jesus adds something unique. “You are not to prepare your defense beforehand!”

Indeed, the Apostles were taken and persecuted before the temple was destroyed in 70 AD. They were witnesses to the faith. Many other Christians were persecuted also. Despite all this, the number of Christians grew by leaps and bounds especially in the first century. Truly that fulfilled the expression: “the blood of the martyrs became the seed of the Church.” Many became Christians because they saw examples of Christians giving testimonies of their faith with their lives and martyrdom. They were not afraid to stand and speak out about the Faith. That made a difference for many in the first Century. We need more examples like this in this moment, where people are willing to speak firmly for their faith and not be intimidated by the antagonists, atheists or mores of the day. 

Yours in Christ,

Fr. Vincent Clemente