33rd Sunday in Ordinary Time - Year C - Perseverance & “Save Your People”

Perseverance—at its core—means holding on through what is severe. Every moment of suffering becomes a crossroads, a moral decision point. In those moments you and I must choose: Will I see this suffering as an end… or as a means?

There’s a wise saying: “In the face of suffering and in the face of loss, you can choose to be bitter, or you can choose to be better.” And it’s true—you really do get to choose. But here’s the deeper truth: bitterness you can accomplish all on your own. Becoming better? That can only happen through the grace and strength of God. In this Sunday’s Gospel (Luke 21:5-19), Jesus names a variety of trials His disciples may encounter. He’s not trying to frighten us. He’s doing what a good Shepherd always does—preparing His flock. He alerts us to our need for perseverance and to what perseverance actually requires.

Here’s an essential distinction for every Christian: God’s strength doesn’t simply help us “hang on” despite the hardships of life. No—Christian perseverance means we are hanging on to God Himself. That changes everything. This Sunday’s First Reading from the Book of Malachi widens our perspective (Mal. 3:19-20). Malachi speaks repeatedly of “the day” of the Lord—a day that can sound terrifying if we don’t yet know Christ. He proclaims in the Lord’s Name: “Lo, the day is coming, blazing like an oven…” It’s easy to hear those words and feel only fear. But don’t stop there. The reading ends with a radiant promise: “But for you who fear my name, there will arise the sun of justice with its healing rays.” Now those are words that can fuel perseverance! The “fear” Malachi speaks of isn’t a cringing, servile terror—like fear of a wolf chasing you. It’s the holy awe that heals, strengthens, and realigns the heart.

What Israel knew only dimly, Jesus revealed in full light. His very Name speaks the truth: “Jesus” means “God saves.” So let's ask ourselves the question: How often do you call on the Name of Jesus when you’re trying to persevere through difficulty?

We are tempted to use His Name in frustration. But the Lord invites us—especially in moments of struggle—to use His Holy Name as a plea for strength, as a prayer of trust, as an anchor for perseverance. Some may shrug this off as quaint or superstitious. But the saints didn’t think so. The early Christians didn’t think so. And if you try it, you won’t either. Here’s a simple challenge for the week ahead: Three times—just three—when you find yourself struggling or tempted to give up, say His Name quietly or out loud: “Jesus.” Call upon Him with faith. Call upon Him with need. Call upon Him with perseverance. And discover again that He is the One who saves.

In honor of the readings this weekend, we would like to share our latest video, “Save Your People”, a contemporary Catholic hymn composed by Jim Farrell and inspired by Psalm 27. Known for its heartfelt plea for protection and guidance, this hymn encourages the faithful to seek God's presence, return to His love, and trust in His mercy and strength for perseverance.

Video can be watched by clicking here or by clicking on the thumbnail below.