PERSEVERANCE TO REMAIN FAITHFUL - 03/29/23 (Wednesday of the Fifth Week of Lent)

John 8:31-34

Jesus said to those Jews who believed in him, "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." They answered him, "We are descendants of Abraham and have never been enslaved to anyone. How can you say, 'You will become free'?" Jesus answered them, "Amen, amen, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave of sin.

For the full readings, click here: 

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/032923.cfm

Blessed Wednesday! Those who remain in the word of God are the disciples of Christ, and they will be set free by Jesus because He is the truth. We will be freed from sins if we are obedient to Christ and His Church, His Mystical Spouse. However, we should acknowledge the obstacles that we may face  from the world. What does this mean? This refers to the world of sin and temptations. Unfortunately, there are many people who will influence us to be disobedient to Christ. Some may tell us that it's ok to not be faithful to the teachings of the Church and that engaging in lust, or other sins, is not wrong. When we are firm in upholding the teachings of Jesus, it's not surprising to hear negative and offensive words from them. When we encounter this, it's important for us to not allow ourselves to be swayed by their words, even if we feel that we are not accepted by the modern society around us. Instead, we should remember that no matter how much pressure we experience, Jesus is with us and with the Church. Let's remember that to base our teachings on the Word of God and the Catholic Church. Below this reflection, there is a summary and defense of the teachings of the Catholic Church which may help us to discern what is true from what is false. We can also make an act of faith by telling Jesus, "My God, I believe in the teachings You have revealed in the Catholic Church" or any other similar prayers daily. Blessed are those who remain firm in the Word of God and yield the harvest of eternal life through perseverance. 

Amen +

Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, be with us always until the hour of our death. Amen. +

May the Lord + bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life. Amen. +  

Reflection by: Dominic

Fasting and Abstinence during Lent:

https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/resource/56337/fasting-and-abstinence-during-lent

Examination of Conscience and Guide to Sacrament of Confession:

https://mycatholic.life/catholic-prayers/examination-of-conscience/

Ultimate Catholic Parents Guide:

https://youtube.com/watch?v=Ls6IcexZAls

Summary and Defense of Catholic Teachings:

https://www.catholic.com/tract/pillar-of-fire-pillar-of-truth