John 8: 31-33

“Then Jesus said to the Jews who had believed in him, ‘If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.’” vss. 31-32

When Jesus uses the word “truth” he’s talking about more than doctrines or theoretical propositions. Everything is relational with him and here he’s promising his disciples a relationship that will put their hearts and minds at rest and also give them freedom from every anxiety and fear. Jesus is the truth, and as they come to know him, they will become one with him and begin to see the world through his eyes. For us this knowing goes beyond digging up all the biographical information we can find about Jesus of Nazareth. While that can be a fun project, at the end of the day Jesus will be little more than a small-time rabbi from an obscure Palestinian town. To know Jesus is to experience him as the living Christ and daily offer him our love and loyalty. And then as we continue to feast on his word of grace and love we will be transformed into his presence, and we will become the truth that can heal the broken and bring sight to the blind. The key to this mystical experience is the word “continue.” Life in Christ is not a once-in-a-blue-moon event, but a daily walk through every circumstance and opportunity that the world will send our way, and the resulting freedom gives peace that satisfies.

Thought for the Day: How could I be more satisfied with my life?