From our Gospel reading for today, from St John: ‘Jesus then said to the Jews who had believed in him, “If you continue in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will make you free”’.

St John Chrysostom commented: ‘Beloved, our condition needs much endurance; and endurance is produced when doctrines are deeply rooted. For as no wind is able by its assaults to tear up the oak, which sends down its root into the lower recesses of the earth, and is firmly clenched there; so too the soul which is nailed by the fear of God none will be able to overturn. … Christ therefore desiring to deepen their faith that it might not be merely superficial, digs into their souls by more striking words. … But how does He this? He first tells them, If you continue in My word, you are My disciples indeed: and the truth shall make you free. All but saying, I am about to make a deep incision, but be not ye moved …’

May we be granted that firm endurance, built upon rock, that will weather all disasters and calamities that may strike us. Thus we will truly blessed, and find our freedom. May God bless you.