If the Son of Man makes you free, you will be free indeed

Dan. 3:14-20.91-92.95, Jn 8:31-42. Those who speak the truth that comes from God and are in close relationship with God often find themselves in opposition with those who are in authority over them, particularly if those in authority are not open to the truth and God’s revelation. Today’s first reading relates the experience of three Hebrew young men, Shadrach, Meschach and Abednego who were willing to die than give in to the worship of false gods. These men put their trust in God no matter what happens: “If our God can save us, may he save us. But even if he will not, O king, we will not serve your god or worship the statue you have erected.” With almost unimaginable serenity they accepted the consequences of remaining faithful to their Jewish traditions. They choose integrity at all costs, but then God saved them from being consumed in the furnace and led Nebuchadnezzar to exclaim: “Blessed be the God who delivers the servants that trust in him.”

In today’s Gospel, Jesus also acted with integrity, doing the will of Him who sent Him (Jn 5:30). Addressing the religious leaders who were in constant opposition with Him, Jesus said: “If the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.” The truth comes from the relationship we have with God, in and through Jesus, the Son of God. If we remain faithful to our relationship with God, we will be free of sin and live as a descendant of Abraham, our father in faith. Jesus informed the religious leaders of His time that they were not true descendants of Abraham because they were not being true to the relationship of faith that Abraham had with God. They do not truly “know” the God upon whom they call. If they were faithful to the relationship with God as Father, they would recognised Jesus as the one whom God has sent and appreciate His love. True freedom is the freedom to love, the freedom to give of ourselves to others as Jesus gave off Himself to us.

May the Lord grant us true freedom, so that we may continue to live in His presence and be filled always with His grace and love! Amen!! Have a great day!!!