The sentiment that our scriptural readings are stirring in these last days of ordinary time is unnerving. A marauding threat of betrayals and persecutions by our own close knit family and circle of friends is looming. True and unquestionable relationship is finally tested. Indeed, the greatest test is the depth of our relationship with one another. Christ Jesus will exemplify this depth to the disciples.

Each successive reading of the day paints a rather bleak picture of what it will be like to pass the end. Jesus speaks of the persecution and betrayal that we have to go through as children of God. This is the true test of our faith in Him. Throughout the centuries, many of our martyrs and saints have gone through numerous trials and emerged victorious. This is because they believed in the promise of Jesus Christ, they trusted Him. This trust rewards a glorious future to them.

What about us? Many of us are tempted to give up faith in the face of daily struggles but compared to what is to come, these daily challenges are nothing. If we depend solely on our own strength, then we will definitely not endure. We need to entrust ourselves to Jesus because He says that He will give us the wisdom and strength to persevere.