2 Macc 7:1-2,9-14 Ps 16(17) 2 Thess 2:16-3:5 Lk 20:27-38
The second Book of Maccabees relates events from about 180 to 160 BC, including the martyrdom stories of Eleazar, and of this family of a mother and seven brothers, written to encourage God’s people in times of persecution. The Syrian king Antiochus imposed Greek culture on the Jews, prompting a revolt led by Judas Maccabeus. The brothers each profess aspects of their faith, including confidence in individual bodily resurrection. The Jews later succeeded in throwing off their oppressor.
The psalm asks for God’s favourable judgement, confident He will help us against our enemies.
The second letter to the Thessalonians was written to calm a community startled by claims that “the day of the Lord” was upon them. As long as they love and believe in the truth given them originally they should stand firm and have no fear. They should continue to pray confidently for Paul and all preachers.
In Luke’s gospel, after meeting Zacheus Jesus entered Jerusalem, cleansed the Temple and responded to challenges about his authority. Then he is asked about resurrection, with another example of seven brothers. He says those worthy to attain resurrection will no longer die or marry, “they are children of God”, the living God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, whom Moses called “Lord”.
Psalm Response: I shall be filled, when I awake, with the sight of your glory, O Lord.
(2 Macc 7:1-2,9-14 Ps 16(17) 2 Thess 2:16-3:5 Lk 20:27-38)