Perseverance in Trials

Homily for Wednesday of the Thirty-Fourth Week in Ordinary Time

Today’s readings weave together a powerful theme of faithfulness under trial, the fleeting nature of worldly power, and the eternal vindication of God’s people.

Once again, the reading from the Book of Daniel reminds us that earthly kingdoms are temporary. King Belshazzar offers Daniel both wealth and power; however, Daniel stands firm, refusing rewards so that he can speak truth to power with courage. Belshazzar has desecrated the sacred vessels from the Temple, exalting the false gods of gold and silver. Daniel interprets the king’s dream, a dream that foretells the destruction of Belshazzar’s empire because he has placed his hope in material things rather than in God. The mysterious “writing on the wall” announces divine judgment; the kingdom is numbered, weighed, and divided.

The Gospel text for this day reminds us that those who are faithful in suffering the scorn of the world will secure their lives because of their perseverance. Jesus has warned them of persecution, the betrayals, trials, and hatred. Yet He promises wisdom that no adversary can resist, they will not be defeated by their enemies, for God will sustain them in the trials that await them.

Once again, our response to the readings is taken from the third chapter of the Book of Daniel. The Canticle sung by the three young men reminds us that even in fire, creation, sings praises to God. Daniel and Jesus both reveal that faithfulness matters more than worldly security. The example of faithfulness given by the three young men in the fiery furnace supports both of their messages.

We have gathered once again around the table of the Lord to join with all of creation in praising God who sustains us with the body and blood of His Beloved Son. Let us join creation in blessing the Lord, confident that His kingdom endures when all others fall.