Today’s readings call us to trust in God even when everything around us seems to collapse. Daniel was thrown into the lions’ den because he refused to abandon prayer to the living God. Daniel’s faith did not waver, even when threatened with death. And what happened? God shut the mouths of the lions. The one who trusted in him was delivered, while those who plotted evil fell into their own trap. This story is a living testimony that God rescues those who remain faithful. In the Gospel reading, Jesus speaks of destruction and tribulation: Jerusalem surrounded, nations in distress, people fainting with fear. Faith does not deny the reality of trials, but it teaches us to look beyond them. The same God who saved Daniel is the God who will redeem us. So when the world shakes, when fear surrounds us, when we feel like lions are closing in: stand firm. Pray like Daniel. Hope like disciples of Christ. For our redemption is near!

PRAYER: bba Father, keep us faithful, fearless, and hopeful. Amen.