JESUS WEPT OVER JERUSALEM - 11/16/22 (Memorial of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, Religious)

Luke 19:41-42

As Jesus drew near Jerusalem, he saw the city and wept over it, saying, “If this day you only knew what makes for peace–but now it is hidden from your eyes.”  

For the full readings, click here: 

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/111722.cfm

Blessed Memorial of Elizabeth of Hungary! As we see in the gospel reading for today, Jesus wept as He drew near Jerusalem. What's the reason for this? Our Lord Jesus was aware that there would be a time that the Temple in Jerusalem would fall. This happened historically during AD 70. The Jews did not recognize that God already came to their midst. They were longing for God and Savior, but due to their sins, they were unable to see whom they were seeking and worshiping. At the same time, this also has significance with our spiritual life. The temple of Jerusalem also represents our souls, the dwelling place of God. If we are unaware that God truly dwells within us, we may fall to grave sins which are offensive to Christ. Just like the fall of the Temple, people in the state of mortal sin endanger their souls to eternal misery unless they repent of their sins and follow God's will. 

As we see in the action of Christ, He shows us His merciful and compassionate love towards us. He knew that He would undergo sufferings in Jerusalem, and He freely embraced it for our salvation. Despite our sinfulness, we are redeemed by the most precious blood of Jesus Christ. Through the sacraments, especially the sacrament of confession, our souls become purified and clean by God's grace. As we ponder on our past sins and even weep of them, Jesus is reminding us to place our hope in Him. Even though there were times that we were unable to focus on Jesus due to the distractions of the world and our jobs, we were given new opportunities to repent of them and to have more time with our Lord. The weeping of Jesus Christ is not in vain because we have real hope of salvation which only comes from Him. Our Lord Jesus died for our salvation. May His infinite love for us inspire us to take care of our souls, so we can glorify and love Him for eternity in heaven. 

Amen +

Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, be with us always until the hour of our death. Amen. +

 

May the Lord + bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life. Amen. +  

Reflection by: Dominic

Ultimate Catholic Parents Guide:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=Ls6IcexZAls

Summary and Defense of Catholic Teachings:

https://www.catholic.com/tract/pillar-of-fire-pillar-of-truth

Examination of Conscience and Guide to Sacrament of Confession:

https://mycatholic.life/catholic-prayers/examination-of-conscience/