For freedom, Christ has set us free. (Gal 5:1)

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Today's readings speak to me about true freedom – the kind of inner freedom that allows a person to obey their conscience informed by the truth of God's word. In the first reading (Dn 3:14-20, 91-92, 95) Daniel and his two companions (addressed as Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego) choose to be burned, rather than bow down to a statue the King of Babylon has placed before the people. Daniel and his companions are servants in the king's court, and the king is livid at their refusal. He has them bound and thrown in a furnace; he then sees one who “looks like a son of God” walking with them in the flames. The king recognizes Daniel and companions' righteousness in disobeying a royal order to honour their God, and has them released. The witness of those willing to die for their faith can change even the most hardened non-believing hearts.

The psalm response (Daniel 3:52, 53, 54, 55, 56) is the hymn of praise proclaimed by Daniel and his companions in the fiery furnace. When we pray, we mobilize angels to join their praise of God to ours. This changes everything. Praising God is one of our most potent spiritual weapons in the fight against evil. It has the power to heal, turn back storms, quell conflicts and yes – protect from fire. David knew that God's praises were a mighty weapon; they were on his lips in his most difficult moments: “Why, my soul, are you downcast? Why so disturbed within me? Put your hope in God, for I will yet praise him, my Savior and my God.” (Ps 43:5)

In today's Gospel, (Jn 8:31-42) Jesus tells His believers, “If you remain in my word, you will truly be my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” There is freedom when we choose to live for Jesus, the Word of God made flesh, and His Gospel – even in the face of death. No one can take away our freedom to believe, to hope to live and die for love of Jesus. Many saints and martyrs went freely to certain death, just as Daniel and his companions did, rather than deny the truth of the Gospel of Jesus, our unshakeable Hope and Source of eternal life.

Lord Jesus, keep me faithful to You to my dying breath. I give You all my fears; replace them with Your fearless love that I might live with Your praises in my heart in all circumstances, You Who are my Light, my Hope my Joy. Amen.

Link to readings: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/040622.cfm





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