Wednesday of the Fifth Week of Lent
John 8:31-42
Remain in My Word

In today’s Gospel, Jesus speaks directly to those who believed in Him, offering a powerful invitation: “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 call us to something deeper than mere belief. They call us to discipleship—a living, active relationship with Jesus that transforms our entire life.

The key word Jesus repeats is “remain.” To remain in His word means more than studying Scripture or admiring His teachings. It is an invitation to dwell in Him, to make His word the guiding light of our daily lives. Discipleship isn’t about carrying an identity card that says “Christian”; it’s about living as one who follows Jesus closely, in thought, word, and action.

When we remain in the Lord, we open our hearts to the Holy Spirit. It is the Spirit who makes us truly free—not bound by ideologies or superficial beliefs but guided by God’s wisdom. This is the anointing of the Spirit, which strengthens us to bear witness to the truth in love, even when the world rejects us, as it rejected Christ.

Jesus faced opposition from the religious leaders because he exposed their contradictions. They clung to power and pride, but discipleship demands humility and openness to God’s guidance. Remaining in Jesus means allowing his Spirit to teach us, lead us, and renew us each day.

As we continue through Lent, we pray for the grace to remain in Christ—rooted in His word, free through His Spirit, and faithful as His disciples. May we walk this path with minds and hearts open to the wisdom and freedom that come from true discipleship in the Lord.

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Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025