To the [the Jewish religious leaders] who had believed him, Jesus said, “If you hold to my teaching, you are really my disciples. Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” (John 8:31-32)
Faith is not something that comes easy or cheap, and it certainly cannot be achieved; it is a gift of grace freely given. We cannot forget God's grace in this, but accepting God's gift is also a choice.
The religious leaders have the opportunity to listen to Jesus and either reject or accept his teaching. Some accept it. And for those who do, Jesus gives clear instructions: He tells them to follow his example and word. And in that they will be living and embracing the truth. Jesus, we cannot forget, is the way, the truth, and the life (John 14:6). The "truth," then, is not a set of instructions or laws; it is not a set of practices or piety. The "truth" is Jesus himself, all that he says and exemplifies. The truth, moreover, is to be a person of mercy, love, and self-sacrifice. This is no easy feat and cannot be accomplished on our own. All we can do, really, is say, "Yes!" God's grace does the rest. And it is through that grace that we can not only acknowledge the truth but to live in the truth.
Lord Jesus, please guide us in your way, truth, and life. Amen.
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