Thursday November 23rd: The Missed Opportunity

“If you had only understood the message of peace!”

Luke 19:41-44

I have no doubt that Jesus is weeping over the state of the world today.
With two wars raging in the Middle East and Europe, and internal unrests and social dissatisfaction highlighted in many other parts of the world, the words of warning that jump out to us from today’s Gospel could very well apply to the 21st century cities and countries of our time. Are we not seeing enemies encircling and cutting off others from access to basic needs? Are not children being dashed, buildings and homes being destroyed?
Could His words of admonition also apply to us, I wonder apprehensively? Have we missed God’s offer? There are many who would say that we have not understood the message of peace, that it is hidden from our eyes. Have we failed to recognise the opportunity presented to us in our time? Has peace passed us by? I sincerely hope not. Let us continue to pray for an end to all wars, and indeed, all forms of injustice. May God in his loving kindness show us his mercy.