Text
John 8:31-32
To the Jews who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
Reflection
In the earlier verse (vs 30) it said, “many believed in him” This means that not everyone among the Jews disbelieved Jesus, they are some who believed Him. Now it talks about “Jews who had believed in him.” What did Jesus say to those who believed Him? “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” The Greek word used for hold is meinete which makes the translation ‘remain’ more closer to the original Greek. This word is derived from ‘meno’ meaning ‘I remain’. Those who remain in Jesus are His true disciples and what does it mean to ‘remain in Jesus?’ Continuing in Jesus’ word involves adhering to Jesus’ teachings and keeping his commandments. This is the truth that gives us true freedom. Truth and freedom are the blessings that Jesus offers those who “remain in (his) word”. Let us pray that this Lenten season will be a season when we learn to remain or abide in God’s word. Amen.
Collect
Almighty God,
whose most dear Son went not up to joy but first he suffered pain,
and entered not into glory before he was crucified:
mercifully grant that we, walking in the way of the cross,
may find it none other than the way of life and peace;
through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord,
who is alive and reigns with you,
in the unity of the Holy Spirit,
one God, now and for ever. Amen
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