Once again, Jesus his listeners in today's gospel passage with a new understanding of truth and freedom. He says: 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 (Jn 8:31-32). The first part of this phrase is something that they - and we - have heard before: If you remain in my word - in other words, if you listen to my words and strive to put them into practice - you will truly be my disciples.
Through the Sacrament of Baptism, we have all been made part of the family of Jesus, and as disciples or followers of his, we should listen to his words every day. We can do this by reading little excerpts from a pocket bible or in any one of a variety of ways. By constantly listening to them, the words Jesus speaks in the scriptures will eventually find a home in our hearts. Through them, we will learn the truth about God's eternal plan to establish a relationship of love with us,
Jesus not only seeks to enter into a private relationship with us; he also gives us visible and tangible ways to experience his presence every day. We can encounter him in the people we meet on a daily basis, and we have the Church to help us as well. The Church is a community of believers. Together, we are making our way through life, and together we can provide support and encouragement for one another. We pray for each other, especially those who are in need; and we encourage one another to discover the truth of God's eternal love. Because God loves us so much, the power of His love can convince us that nothing we say or do can ever separate us from Him. How wonderful it is to know that the truth we find in God sets us free.
Have a great day.
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