The story of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego reminds us that there are times in life when our faith is tested. In those moments we call upon the Lord for the strength we need, and we ask God for forgiveness for those times that we have failed. For through it all Christ offers his life for us.
In the Book of Numbers the people of Israel were delivered from their suffering when they looked upon the seraph which Moses set up on a pole; in the Gospel of John we learn that we are relieved of our suffering when we look upon the Lord who offers his life upon the Cross for our sins.
We often talk about Heaven in daily language, yet it is easy to take for granted the significance eternal life. Simply put, how we live matters, and when we know that the Lord has more in store for us we discover new strength to face the challenges of life and death as we prepare for God’s everlasting Kingdom.
As questions swirl about who is Jesus the threats against his life continue to grow. The uncertainty – is he a prophet or even the the Christ – causes divisions and doubts among the leaders. As we encounter uncertainty in our own lives we look to the Lord for wisdom, strength, and guidance.
The first reading from the Book of Wisdom offers an insight into the life and death of Jesus. As the Son of God was triumphant over sin and evil, so we can also place our hope in Christ’s victory as we call upon His grace and face our challenges today.
We turn to Jesus and follow him with all our hearts, putting our faith and belief in the one who poured out his life on the Cross that we might be restored to a relationship with God.
Jesus will judge us by our deeds and the consequences will be eternal. Yet this just judge is also our savior who knows our sins and has paid the price with his own blood. When we stand before him and look upon the face of Compassion, will we accept his mercy as we acknowledge our sins?
A crippled man is healed by Jesus, and some people get hung up on a religious rule. It’s a good reminder for us: to count our blessings and focus on what is precious so that we understand the gift of life in its proper perspective.
The readings this weekend help us understand the crucial role that sight plays in our lives. Whether it’s physical or spiritual…what do you see? The invitation today: to see God at work in our lives as we look for Christ and live in His love.