Reading for Monday, April 2: Luke 21

This chapter begins with Jesus praising a poor widow for her offering. Though her financial contribution would be considered sparse by almost any standard, Jesus holds her up as an example of generosity, for “she out of her poverty put in all she had to live on,” (v4). This is another Lukan example of the cost of discipleship — a Christ follower who goes “all in” for Jesus.

The remainder of the chapter constitutes Jesus’ final public sermon in Luke. Speaking of the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple, Jesus encourages His followers to stand firm. By AD70, Jerusalem will be ravaged and the Temple destroyed. But Jesus doesn’t want His followers to mistake this for the end. In fact, His followers will face persecution and suffering before these things will occur. But He implores them to trust God to supply their words and wisdom (v15), even amid betrayal and martyrdom. “By standing firm you will gain life,” (v19).

Therefore, Jesus says, live in readiness, prayerfully anticipating what comes next (vv34-36). We, too, can apply this teaching. “Be always on the watch, and pray that you may be able to escape all that is about to happen, and that you may be able to stand before the Son of Man,” (v36).