Here’s a readers’ theatre setting of Luke 21:25-36 (the suggested gospel
reading for Advent 1, Year C). I’ve
added a few verses at the beginning to set the context. You could leave those off if you prefer.
Readers’ Theatre
(Luke 21:
25-36)
One: Jesus came to the Temple
daily,
teaching the people,
and answering the
questions of the priests and religious leaders.
One day, some of his
disciples began talking
about the beautiful
stonework of the Temple,
and the memorial
decorations on the walls.
Jesus said,
Two: Go ahead, look around, and
be impressed;
but the days are coming
when one stone will not
be left standing on another.
Everything here will be
demolished.
One: When will this happen,
Teacher?
And will there be any
signs ahead of time?
Two: There will be strange signs in the
sun, moon, and stars.
And here on earth the nations will
be in turmoil,
perplexed by the roaring seas and
strange tides.
People will be terrified at what
they see coming upon the earth,
for the powers in the heavens will
be shaken.
Then everyone will see the Son of
Man
coming on a cloud with power and
great glory.
So when all these things begin to
happen,
stand and look up, for your
salvation is near!”
One: Then he gave them this illustration:
Two: Notice the fig tree, or any other
tree.
When the leaves come out,
you know without being told that
summer is near.
In the same way, when you see all
these things taking place,
you can know that the Kingdom of God
is near.
I tell you the truth,
this generation will not pass from
the scene
until all these things have taken
place.
Heaven and earth will disappear,
but my words will never disappear.
Watch out!
Don’t let your hearts be dulled by
carousing and drunkenness,
and by the worries of this life.
Don’t let that day catch you
unaware, like a trap.
For that day will come upon everyone
living on the earth.
Keep alert at all times.
And pray that you might be strong
enough
to escape these coming horrors and
stand before the Son of Man.
