7 Apr
Fri
5th Week of Lent
Jer. 20:10-13
Ps. 18(17):2-4,5-6,7
Jn. 10:31-42
(Ps Wk I)
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The recent disgraceful manoeuvrings of the American presidential election had one good outcome, at least, namely raising awareness of the evil and possible criminal consequences of spreading fake news through social media. There were no "social media" in Jeremiah's time, of course, but what St James calls "sins of the tongue" (James 3:6) and Pope Francis has called the "terrorism of gossip" were just as prevalent in biblical times as they are today. So Jeremiah heard "the whispering of many". Many accused the prophet of foretelling "terror on every side" because he warned that Israel's evil ways would bring much suffering, and so they conspired against him: "Denounce him".

Even the term "fake news" is part of the mind-set of our so-called "post-truth" era, for if something is fake, then it is not news but lies. The promotion and preservation of the truth is so important for a civilized society that God has given us a commandment: "You shall not bear false witness", "You must never lie". Contorting the truth for any purpose whatsoever, especially for any kind of personal gain, separates us from Christ, who declared himself to be the truth incarnate: "I am the way, the truth, and the life" (Jn 14:6).



Lord Jesus, you affirmed that the truth will set us free. Grant us this freedom of heart and mind.


DAILY OFFERING
Eternal Father, I offer You everything I do this day; my thoughts, words, joys and sufferings. Grant that, vivified by the Holy Spirit and united to the Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Immaculate Heart of Mary, my life this day may be of service to You and to others. I also pray that all those preparing for marriage discover in Sacrament the source of Christ's grace for living a fithful and fruitful love. Amen.

PRAYING WITH THE CHURCH
INTENTION
That young people may respond generously to their vocations and seriously consider offering themselves to God in the priesthood or consecrated life.
Elaboration

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