If you were in Daniel’s situation, would you continue to be faithful? What do you think it means to be “poor of the Lord”? - Daily Bible Reflections November 23,2015

GIANTS

 

“He said, “I tell you truly, this poor widow put in more than all the rest...”– Luke 21:3

 

Imagine losing everything in the worst possible way — no more house, no more money, your family is either killed, maimed or enslaved in front of you, nothing that you are or own matters anymore, you’re thrown into the streets, and you’re made a slave of a tyrant.

       Would you still serve God?

    In today’s readings, that is exactly what happened to Daniel, his companions and the widow. None of them chose the situation they were in — Daniel and his friends were now slaves, and the widow, having lost her family, was now a beggar for life.

       But more than having anguish in common, they also had a strong faith, a living hope and a firm devotion to the Lord. Consider that even in their situation, (a) none of them complained or blamed God for their circumstances, (b) consistently, they showed nothing but conviction, and (c) compared to others who had freedom or riches or both, these people who had very little still exceeded expectations in what they did for the Lord.

       They were blessed for their faith and they have blessed us with their example. They are “giants” to emulate indeed. Rod Velez (rod.velez@gmail.com)

 

Reflection: If you were in Daniel’s situation, would you continue to be faithful? What do you think it means to be “poor of the Lord”?

 

Lord, You know better the deficiencies in my faith; take them all away and make me whole. For Your greater honor and glory. Amen.

 

St. Clement I, pope and martyr, pray for us.