Reflection
In today's readings, we encounter powerful stories of unlikely leaders and prophetic warnings. In Judges, we see how God raises up Deborah, a woman judge in a patriarchal society, and later Gideon, a man hiding in a winepress, to deliver Israel from oppression. In Luke 21, Jesus provides sobering warnings about the future destruction of Jerusalem and signs that will precede His return.

The key insight we can draw from these passages is this: God often works through unlikely people and unexpected circumstances to accomplish His purposes, calling us to faithful courage even in troubling times.

Let's break this down into a simple principle we can apply:

Trust God's calling on your life, even when you feel inadequate or face uncertain times.

Here are five practical steps we can take to apply today's readings:

1. Embrace your calling: Like Deborah and Gideon, recognize that God may be calling you to serve in ways that seem beyond your abilities.

2. Look for confirmation: Notice how God provided signs to confirm Gideon's calling. What confirmations has God given you?

3. Practice discernment: Jesus warned against false prophets and misleading signs. How can you develop spiritual discernment today?

4. Choose courage: Both Deborah and Gideon stepped forward despite fear. Identify one area where you need courage to follow God's leading.

5. Maintain perspective: Jesus reminded His disciples that while troubling times will come, "not a hair of your head will perish." How might this eternal perspective change your approach to current challenges?

As you go about your day, reflect on this question: Where might God be calling you to step out in faith, despite your feelings of inadequacy or uncertainty about the future?

Conclusion
Thank you for joining me today. These passages remind us that God's work is often accomplished through unlikely people facing uncertain times. Whether it's Deborah leading Israel's army, Gideon overcoming his fears, or disciples facing persecution, God empowers those who respond to His call with faithful courage. Until tomorrow, may you find strength in knowing that the God who calls you will also equip you for whatever lies ahead.