Wednesday of the 5th week of Lent year A
Theme: Faithful God
The faith of our Ancestors in faith should continue to encourage and challenge us in our call to discipleship. A few days ago, we talked about the faith of Suzanna, who stood firm against the two elders who lied against her for their evil and selfish motive. In the 1st reading of today again, we see the faith of Shadrach, Meshack and Abednego who stood their ground, and preferred to disobey the king Nebuchadnezzar instead of sinning against God. They knew the implication of the choice they made and what would happen to them, but they did not change their position but remained resolute until the end.
Reflecting on the faith of these great men of our faith, gives us hope and encourages us to be upright and stand for what is always good and right. This is the type of mindset that is needed today in our world, people witnessing for Christ with faith and great conviction. Especially at a time when people prefer to be friends of those in places of power and authority, and most people don’t want to expose themselves and their loved ones to any form of discomfort or worries. The truth is that no matter how careful we are, we must be ready and prepared for discomfort from time to time, because they must surely come. However, what differentiates one Christian from another, is how we handle situations in our lives. Some of us may prefer to align with the oppressors because of our selfish gain from the situation; while some others will take the path of justice and honour, by embracing what is good, right and pleasing to God.
My brothers and sisters in Christ, embracing the path of honour, truth and justice is what we are all encouraged to embrace today in our lives as children of God. Humanly speaking it may seem a difficult task, but if we align with God, we have nothing to be afraid about; God will always give us the necessary support that we always need. The action of the three young men in todays 1st reading should continue to strengthen our faith in God, especially when we are faced with the challenges and difficulties of life. Our ability to remain strong and steadfast in faith will win us our salvation. Our prayer today is that the grace of God will continue to strengthen our faith in times of difficulties in our life. May the Lord bless his words in our hearts in the name of the father and of the son and of the holy spirit. Amen. Peace be with you.