9 April 2014
Wednesday of the Fifth Week of Lent
Today in the first reading, we are confronted with an absolute story of trust from the standpoint of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego (Daniel 3:14-20, 91-92, 95). When about to be cast into the fire, these three companions responded, “There is no need for us to defend ourselves before you in this matter. If our God, whom we serve, can save us from the white-hot furnace and from your hands, O king, may he save us!” (Daniel 3:16-17). Talk about a story of literally walking to your death! Yet, it also demonstrates these men followed the line from the Gospel, “If you remain in my [Jesus’] word, you will truly be my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:31).
While not present in the first reading, we hear an addition to the Aramaic text though the psalm that Abednego (Azariah) proclaims while in the white hot fires. This hymn (Daniel 3:52-88) is prayed every four weeks in the Liturgy of Hours, and follows a pattern “X, bless the Lord; praise and exalt him above all forever.” This passage serves as a beautiful reminder even while in Lent our prayers still should includes aspects of gratefulness.