1st April 2020. The readings are from Daniel 3:14-20, 24-25, 28; and the Gospel from John 8:31-42. There is a closer connection between truth and light. Anyone who is truthful leads the other to the light. One who lives in light has an unquenchable thirst for truth. Jesus is the truth and visible face and tangible image of the Father. “But those who do what is true come to the light, so that it may be clearly seen that their deeds have been done in God.” (Jn.3:21). Being the believer and the witness of the truth is for which we are here in this world. Our life needs to be a display of light and testimony of truth. In the first reading three young persons demonstrate it by their profession of faith in One God. His Holiness asserts in His Apostolic exhortation, Christus Vivit no. 1 and 2: “Christ is alive! He is our hope, and in a wonderful way he brings youth to our world, and everything he touches becomes young, new, full of life. When you feel you are growing old out of sorrow, resentment or fear, doubt or failure, he will always be there to restore your strength and your hope.” As we are all now confined to our homes, let us not invest all our time around chatting, texting and viewing rather let us spend some quality time to confront the lies we have embraced so far, and to believe in truth that builds new bonds and relationship in our families and communities. “Sanctify them in the truth; your word is truth.” (Jn.17:17). It is indeed a precious time to have a look at the Bible and read and reflect one time if possible if not at least the passion narrative from the four gospels could be meditated. The fiery furnace of lies cannot consume our fervor in knowing, loving and worshiping God during these times when we are not able to have the access to a place of worship. The responsorial Psalm praises, “To you be glory and praise for ever!” (Dan.3:34). In the Gospel Jesus assures us, “If you continue in my word you are truly my disciples; and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free.” (Jn.8:31). God watches and protects when we are living a life of truth and love to know the truth. “Those who trust in him will understand truth, and the faithful will abide with him in love, because grace and mercy are upon his holy ones, and he watches over his elect.” (Wis.3:9). To live a life of lie is to live a life of slavery. “So if the Son makes you free, you will be free indeed.” (Jn.8:36). “God chose you as the first fruits for salvation through sanctification by the Spirit and through belief in the truth,” (2 Thes.2:13), so that we continue bear witnesses to the truth in our given situation. Let us be cautious about the fake news all around as we are in this situation. It is time to know the truth and breathe the same around. May God bless you to be safe and healthy.