In these last days before Holy Week, we have been given the examples of two great saints, Patrick and Joseph. In the reading from chapter three of Daniel, we hear of the great faith of three young Jewish men who were ordered by King Nabuchadnezzar to worship false gods or be thrown into a blazing furnace.
But Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego said to the king, ''We trust in our God who will save us.'' The king was so angry that he ordered that they be thrown into the fiery furnace. When they emerged unharmed. Nabuchadnezzar was amazed and exclaimed, ''Blessed be their God who sent an angel to save them because of their trust in him.''
Fortunately, we are not threatened with the same torture, but we often have to face difficulties caused by health or economic problems, pressures of work, opposition or discrimination. How can we face them with trust in God? John 8:31-42 gives us an answer when Jesus says, ''If you make my word your home, you will indeed be my disciples; you will learn the truth, and the truth will make you free.'' Jesus is inviting us to spend time reflecting on his word so that we feel so much at home with him that we rely on him to help us in our daily struggles. ''Lord Jesus, be with me on the journey of life. Help me to enjoy your word and the beauty of your creation and welcome me to my true home with you forever.''