Missed Opportunity - Luke 19:41-44

Thurssday, 21 November - 33rd week in Ordinary Time (Year B)

From the Gospel according to Luke

As Jesus drew near Jerusalem and came in sight of the city he shed tears over it and said, ‘If you in your turn had only understood on this day the message of peace! But, alas, it is hidden from your eyes! Yes, a time is coming when your enemies will raise fortifications all round you, when they will encircle you and hem you in on every side; they will dash you and the children inside your walls to the ground; they will leave not one stone standing on another within you – and all because you did not recognise your opportunity when God offered it!’

The Gospel of the Lord.
Praise to You, Lord Jesus Christ.

This passage from the Gospel of Luke depicts a poignant moment where Jesus approaches Jerusalem and prophesies its destruction. This event occurs shortly before his Passion and subsequent crucifixion, making it a significant prelude to the climax of Luke's Gospel. The context is Jesus’ final entry into Jerusalem, where he openly weeps for the city, foreseeing its impending doom.

While all synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke) describe Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem, Luke is unique in that it specifically mentions Jesus weeping over the city (Luke 19:41). Matthew (23:37-39) and Mark (13:1-2) reference Jesus speaking of Jerusalem’s destruction, but only Luke captures the depth of Jesus' emotional response. This addition emphasizes Jesus’ compassion and his profound connection to the city and its people.