Tuesday of 34th Week in Ordinary Time, Year 2, 2024
Reflection by Fr. Collins Akhigbe, OP
Scriptural passages
1st reading Rev. 14:14-19. Psalm 96. Gospel Lk. 21:5-11.
Theme: Tribulations Are Coming
“The days will come when there will not be left a stone upon another stone that will not be thrown down. Nations will rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom” (Lk. 21:6,10). The Lord predicted the fall of Jerusalem and the tribulations that were coming upon the earth in today’s gospel reading. These events have happened again and again. Before this time and in this very season, nations are at war with other nations. There is famine and earthquake in the world. There are all kinds of disasters and tribulations before humanity. In the first reading, the apostle John had a revelation of the Judgment (Rev. 14:14-19). These readings should make each and everyone of us to be ready and prepared. You should not live as if you are the owner of tomorrow. You should take one day at a time and live a life of holiness and righteousness.
Tribulations, challenges, and sufferings are a universal reality in the world, stemming from the presence of sin, brokenness, and the fallen nature of humanity. These tribulations manifest in various forms, such as physical illness, emotional turmoil, relational conflicts, and societal injustices. While the existence of tribulations may bring pain and difficulties, they also provide opportunities for growth, faith refinement, and the demonstration of God’s power and grace. Understanding the reasons for tribulations and how to respond to them can help believers navigate through life’s trials with faith, resilience, and hope. In this reflection, we shall highlight why there are tribulations and how to respond to moments of trials and tribulations.
Why There Are Tribulations
First, consequence of Sin. Tribulations are a consequence of sin entering the world through Adam and Eve’s disobedience (Gen. 3:1-12). The brokenness and imperfections of the world result in suffering, pain, and hardships affecting all humanity (Gen. 3:16-19, Rom. 5:12).
Second, Spiritual Warfare. Tribulations are often manifestations of spiritual warfare, as the enemy seeks to steal, kill, and destroy. Believers are engaged in a spiritual battle against the forces of darkness, leading to spiritual attacks, persecution, and trials (Ephesians 6:12, 1 Peter 5:8).
Third, Refinement and Growth. Tribulations serve as opportunities for refinement, growth, and character development. Through trials, believers are refined like gold in the fire, strengthening their faith, perseverance, and dependence on God (James 1:2-4, 1 Peter 1:6-7).
Fourth, Testimony and Witness. Tribulations provide believers with opportunities to testify to God’s faithfulness, grace, and power. By enduring trials with faith and hope, believers demonstrate the reality of their trust in God and His ability to sustain them in the midst of difficulties (2 Cor. 4:8-9; 2 Cor. 12:9-10).
How to Respond to Tribulations.
First, Trust in God’s Sovereignty. Trust in God’s sovereignty and wisdom, acknowledging that He is in control even amidst tribulations. Lean on His promises, knowing that He works all things for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose (Rom. 8:28, Proverbs 3:5-6).
Second, Prayer and Seeking God’s Presence. Turn to prayer and seek God’s presence in times of tribulation. Pour out your heart to Him, seeking comfort, guidance, and strength. Find solace in His Word, knowing that He is near to the brokenhearted and the crushed in spirit (Psalm 34:17-18, Phil. 4:6-7).
Third, Endurance and Perseverance. You should cultivate endurance and perseverance in the face of tribulations, knowing that God equips you to withstand difficulties. Fix your eyes on Jesus, the author and perfecter of your faith, and press on with perseverance, knowing that your faith is being tested and refined (Hebrews 12:1-3, James 1:12). Do not give up on yourself. Be patient and be calm. The Lord is in charge.
Fourth, Hope and Assurance. Anchor your hope in God’s promises and assurance of His presence with you in tribulations. Trust in His faithfulness, goodness, and love, believing that He will sustain you through challenges and bring about redemption and restoration in His perfect timing (Psalm 42:11, 2 Cor. 4:16-18).
Fifth, Humility and Dependence. Approach tribulations with humility and dependence on God, recognizing your need for His grace, strength, and guidance. Surrender your burdens to Him, trusting in His sufficiency to carry you through trials and empower you to overcome obstacles (1 Peter 5:6-7, 2 Cor. 12:9).
Sixth, Compassion and Service. Use your experiences of tribulations to empathize with and serve others who are facing similar challenges. Show compassion, extend a helping hand, and share the comfort and hope you have received from God with those in need, reflecting Christ’s love and compassion in action (2 Cor. 1:3-4, Gal. 6:2).
Seventh, Faith and Trust. Strengthen your faith and trust in God’s power to work in and through tribulations for His glory. Trust that He is able to bring beauty from ashes, turning trials into testimonies of His faithfulness and provision. Lean on His strength and grace to navigate through tribulations with unwavering faith (Isaiah 61:3, Eph. 3:20-21). These are some of the ways you can respond to moments of tribulations.
Prayers
Lord, help us to be patient in moments of trials and challenges. Lord, give us the grace of understanding and wisdom. Lord, help us not to give up in moments of trials. Lord, deliver us from fears and anxiety. Lord, please, sustain us till the very end. Amen. Wishing you a peaceful day.
With lots of prayers and love.
