What did those Jews that believed in him hear when Jesus said, the truth will set you free?
Their response implies they were not listening.  They heard Jesus’ words but were so focused on defending their position that there was no room for his word.  Jesus did not question their heritage (I know you are descendants of Abraham).  He questioned their understanding of faith, reminding them that Abraham did not try to kill God’s messengers.  Abraham listened and then demonstrated unconditional faith.  Rather than trying to kill him, if Jesus’ audience heard him, they would have recognized his prophetic voice and, like their ancestor Abraham, they would have trusted the message Jesus brought from God.         

Throughout this discourse, Jesus offers a redefinition of freedom.  It is much more than freedom from physical slavery.  I hear Jesus imploring his audience to release their preconceived understanding with two statements.  First, Jesus says everyone who commits sin is a slave to sin, and second, he invites them to see him as the Son, sharing the Father’s Word.  But his audience continues to resist, refusing to make room in their hearts and minds for his teachings.  The reading ends with one last attempt by Jesus to help them realize he is acting on behalf of God when he says, I came from God and am here.  I did not come on my own, but he sent me. 

I can look at this reading and wonder why it was so difficult for the Jews to see Jesus and accept his invitation to be forgiven and granted true freedom.  But I, too, can fall into a similar trap, stuck in my vision of how the world should be, which then blinds me to see and hear how God never ceases to transform and gently invite all of creation into a deeper relationship with Him.  I can be more attentive to God’s presence through the daily Examen prayer.  I can ask for the grace of an open mind and heart.  I can seek to quiet my inner voice, make room for His Word, and be more attentive to how God chooses to show up rather than blinded by how I think He should show up.    

Reflection for today:  How did I make room within myself today for God, and in doing so, how did God surprise me today?    

All praise and glory to God forever.