In the first reading we see complete faith in God shown by the three youths thrown into the fires and saved by their God. They would rather face death than go against God’s law.

In the Gospel reading we see Jesus arguing with the Pharisees and the teachers of the Law. The Jewish leaders have refused to accept Christ and his message, despite the many signs and miracles he had performed; his teaching had undermined their teaching and authority with the people. They claimed that their Father was Abraham. In reply Jesus said that, if they were children of Abraham, they would see the truth and accept him.

We pray that we may have the faith and the courage of the three youths. We also pray not to be proud, stubborn and blind like the Jewish leaders.