The Truth Will Set You Free
We often hear this in our daily lives, most frequently in a more secular setting. A favorite of academia, the quote evokes a sense of openness and freedom for the pursuit of knowledge. But for us as Christians and Catholics, this has a much deeper and more profound meaning. In John 8:31-32, Jesus challenges us to embrace a greater truth to guide our lives, "If you remain in my word, you will truly be my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free."
The words preceding the “truth” statement are particularly important. Understanding the “Word” calls for us to pay particular attention to the source of our truth, especially today. There is a relentless stream of sources of “truths” bombarding us everyday – in the media, on the Internet, through our social media, in polls & surveys of public opinion…
What are your sources of “truth”?
Who is your authority?
I am always fascinated by the etymology of words and phrases. This is part by the historical context, but also because we often don’t pay enough attention to the original meaning of everyday language. Sometimes I find looking up the original meaning makes me laugh but more often, I find myself stopping to reflect on its original intention.
The word “truth” comes from the Old English triewð (West Saxon), meaning faith, faithfulness, fidelity or loyalty. This is more than just discovery of a fact. It calls for a way of being, a way of living your life as a Disciple of Christ. It takes actions and behaviors consistent with the Word. It shifts things around, making the means far more important than the ends. Truth is hard and often difficult, but it is truly what “will set you free.”
Our Holy Father recently spoke to this in his daily homily. Here is a brief excerpt to reflect upon:
Lori Doyle
Parish Pastoral Council/Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion
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