Today's first reading is a brief presentation of Jesus' apocalyptic teaching -- that is, his teaching about the end times. Shortly before his arrest, Jesus again offers warnings about the bad things that will happen before God sets everything right. There will be false prophets; those who are faithful to God will be persecuted (but the Holy Spirit will guide them -- this is a central theme the book of Acts, which was also written by the author of Luke). Even Jerusalem will be captured. But pay attention, Jesus insists; after all of these signs and omens, the Son of Man will return and offer salvation.
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Reading the Bible in Its Entirety
The second reading provides a series of events that occurred after Jesus' was resurrected. After the empty tomb is discovered by the women, followed by Peter, Jesus does not immediately appear to anyone. Instead, there is a long story of two unnamed disciples walking away from Jerusalem toward Emmaus, joined by a stranger (who turns out to be Jesus). They enjoy a long conversation with him about the Bible and invite him to join them for supper. At the table, Jesus took bread, prayed, and gave it to them. Through the act of communion, they suddenly recognize that it's Jesus; but suddenly he disappears. Only then does Jesus appear to the main twelve disciples, who witness his ascension into heaven.
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If you are planning to read the Bible in its entirety, you should read Luke 20-24 today.
