The Hidden Nature of Sin in the Children of Abraham

Greetings on this the Wednesday of the Fifth Week of Lent
Readings: Daniel 3:14-20, 91-92, 95; Daniel 3:52, 53, 54, 55, 56; John 8:31-42

Summary

Slavery to sin hides its identity in the cloak of false righteousness. Even historically slavery was a constant problem including the vassal state status of Jerusalem at the time. Before Jesus (ancient Babylon), during the life of Jesus (Romans) and even today, we cloak our evils in the mantel of entitlement.

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. A slave does not remain in a household forever, but a son always remains. So if the Son frees you, then you will truly be free (Jn 8:33-36).

Reflection

In our first reading today, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego are under the brutal power of King Nebuchadnezzar even to the point of being put in a fiery furnace to be burned to death. Yet even in these dire circumstances the Lord rescues them and even brings a momentary enlightenment to the King wherein he is quoted as saying:

Nebuchadnezzar rose in haste and asked his nobles, “Did we not cast three men bound into the fire?” “Assuredly, O king,” they answered. “But,” he replied, “I see four men unfettered and unhurt, walking in the fire, and the fourth looks like a son of God.” Nebuchadnezzar exclaimed, “Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who sent his angel to deliver the servants who trusted in him; they disobeyed the royal command and yielded their bodies rather than serve or worship any god except their own God. (Dn 3:91-92, 95)”

Then Nebuchadnezzar came to the opening of the white-hot furnace and called: “Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, servants of the Most High God, come out.” Thereupon Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego came out of the fire (Dn 3:93).

Personal Reflection

Some know they are enslaved. Some deny they are enslaved. And a few, knowing the Lord is the Master of Salvation, knowing they are safe in the arms of the Divine. How can we know if we are enslaved?

The classic example, by far not the only example, is the words of Jesus spoken twice to those who are challenging him.

But you are trying to kill me (Jn 8:37, 40).

The first sin after the fall from grace was the murder of Abel by Cain – brothers. It seems murder, and variants of that impulse, seem to be a pretty sticky part of the human experience. Claiming rights by way of heredity (descendants of Abraham) and (Our father is Abraham) and dogma is counter to the reality. You are trying to kill me.

Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and am here (Jn 8:42).

As Holy Week approaches we must examine our motives and our entitlements. We are entitled by grace to love not death. We are entitled to free not imprison. We are entitled to seek the Face of God not blur his image with ulterior agendas.

Who are you trying to kill? Whatever religious tradition you are from, if killing is your ‘go-to’ option you are far from being a child of Abraham.

Sacred Readings full text: https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/040925.cfm

Peace be with you,
Deacon Gerry