Monday, April 14, 2025  

Today's Scripture
Matthew 23:37–24:2 

“Jerusalem, Jerusalem, the city that kills the prophets and stones those who are sent to it! How often have I desired to gather your children together as a hen gathers her brood under her wings, and you were not willing! See, your house is left to you, desolate. For I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, ‘Blessed is the one who comes in the name of the Lord.’” 

As Jesus came out of the temple and was going away, his disciples came to point out to him the buildings of the temple. Then he asked them, “You see all these, do you not? Truly I tell you, not one stone will be left here upon another; all will be thrown down.” (NRSV) 

Reflection

Jerusalem. Destruction all around. The world under siege. It’s hard to hold onto our faith amidst it all. Yet Jesus tells us to hold onto our faith in him: “For I tell you, you will not see me again until you say, ‘Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.’”

During this most holy of weeks, as Jesus faced his own persecution, destruction, and death, we are asked to believe in Jesus. To believe that he — and we — will live an eternal life. Yet it’s hard to believe this, particularly as our Savior and the world around him come tumbling down. It is hard to hold onto our faith as we deal with Jesus’ crucifixion on the cross. 

Prayer
Dear Creator God, please help our disbelief. Make us strong as you made Jesus strong. Make us brave as you made Jesus brave. For it is in believing in Jesus, our light and our Redeemer, that we are granted eternal life. In Jesus’ name we pray. Amen.

Written by Ed Miller, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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