1ST READING. DAN 3:14-20,91-92,95. PSALM. DAN 3. GOSPEL. 8:31-42.
THEME: TRUTH & FREEDOM
INTRODUCTION
In life, happiness is dependent on the choices you make every day. The understanding you have also determines how you live your life and the happiness you will receive. In the first reading, the story of the three young men who refused to worship other gods is presented to us. They stood for God and preferred to die than to compromise. To stand for God is to stand for Truth. The One who is. “I am who I am.”( Ex 3:14). To stand for truth is to stand for Jesus. I am the way, the truth and the life.( Jn 14:6).
In the Gospel, the Lord says, “if you continue in my words, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth and the truth will make you free.” (Jn 8:32). How does the truth lead you to freedom.
The first way truth brings about your freedom is the presence of inner peace. You don’t need to hide yourself because you are opened. Truth also leads you to light of God. You will truly see and enjoy the insight and understanding that comes with it. Another way truth leads you to freedom is that God himself will defend you as you see in the first reading. When you stand for truth, you will surely suffer rejection and persecution; But, because truth cannot be hidden forever, it will one day come to light.
The best option for you and I is to stand for truth. In this, your memory will forever remain green. May the Lord helps you to be true to yourself. May you find peace and freedom in truth and righteousness. May the Lord deliver you from falsehood. Amen.
