4/9/2025 (Wednesday) Today’s Gospel reading: John 8:31-42

31 “If you remain in my word, you will truly be my disciples,
32 and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”
33 They answered him, “We are descendants of Abraham and have never been enslaved to anyone. How can you say, ‘You will become free’?”
34 Jesus answered them, “Amen, amen, I say to you, everyone who commits sin is a slave of sin.
35 A slave does not remain in a household forever, but a son always remains.
36 So if the Son frees you, then you will truly be free.
37 I know that you are descendants of Abraham. But you are trying to kill me, because my word has no room among you.
38 I tell you what I have seen in the Father’s presence; then do what you have heard from the Father.”
39 They answered and said to him, “Our father is Abraham.” Jesus said to them, “If you were Abraham’s children, you would be doing the works of Abraham.
40 But now you are trying to kill me, a man who has told you the truth that I heard from God; Abraham did not do this.
41 You are doing the works of your father!” So they said to him, “We were not born of fornication. We have one Father, God.”
42 Jesus said to them, “If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and am here; I did not come on my own, but he sent me.”

4/9/2025 (Wednesday) Today’s Gospel reflection / homily / sermon: John 8:31-42

Jesus speaks about true freedom—freedom that goes beyond political, social, or personal independence. He tells those who believe in Him:

“If you remain in my word, you will truly be my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”

These words hold a deep spiritual significance. Many people today long for freedom—freedom from fear, from sin, from past mistakes, and from the burdens of life. But true freedom is not just about doing what we want; it is about being released from the things that hold us back from a deep relationship with God.

Jesus makes it clear that knowing the truth is key to being free. But what truth is He talking about? The truth is not simply knowledge or facts; it is found in Christ Himself. Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). When we remain in His word, we gain a deeper understanding of who He is and what He has done for us.

Before knowing Christ, we are often trapped by sin, fear, guilt, and lies. The world tells us that we need to prove our worth through success, wealth, or approval from others. But Jesus reveals the truth: our worth is found in Him. His sacrifice on the cross sets us free from the power of sin and brings us into a relationship with the Father.

The Jews in Jesus’ time were proud of their heritage and told Him, “We are offspring of Abraham and have never been enslaved to anyone. How is it that You say, ‘You will become free’?” (John 8:33).

They did not realize that they were spiritually enslaved to sin. Many today also fail to see that sin is a kind of bondage. Sin deceives us, promising happiness but leading to emptiness. It keeps us from experiencing the peace and joy that come from walking with God.

Jesus explained, “Truly, truly, I say to you, everyone who practices sin is a slave to sin.” (John 8:34). This means that when sin controls our lives, whether it is pride, anger, selfishness, or addiction, we are not truly free. But Jesus offers hope.

Jesus continues: “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” (John 8:36).

This is the heart of the gospel. Jesus alone has the power to free us from sin because He conquered sin and death through His sacrifice. His blood cleanses us, His love restores us, and His grace transforms us.

Freedom in Christ is not just about escaping punishment for sin; it is about walking in a new life. It is the power to resist temptation, the ability to love others unconditionally, and the peace of knowing we belong to God.

Jesus challenges the people listening to Him by saying that if they were truly children of Abraham, they would follow God’s ways. Instead, their hearts were far from Him. This teaches us an important lesson: our spiritual identity is not just about religious background or knowledge; it is about a heart that follows Christ.

If we want to experience the fullness of freedom in Christ, we must abide in Him. This means:
1. Remaining in His Word – Reading, studying, and applying the Bible in our lives.
2. Trusting in His Truth – Rejecting the lies of the enemy and believing in God’s promises.
3. Walking in Obedience – Living a life that reflects Christ’s love and holiness.

When we do these things, we experience the true freedom Jesus promises—freedom from sin, fear, and anything that keeps us from God.

Many people seek freedom in the wrong places including money, relationships, and success but only Christ gives true and lasting freedom. He calls us to live as children of God, no longer bound by sin, but walking in His truth.

If you feel trapped today, Jesus invites you to abide in His Word and receive His freedom. Trust in Him, and you will know the truth that sets you free!

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