Today's readings [display_podcast]
Sometimes, what looks like freedom, is in fact the most hideous form of bondage and servitude. For Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, freedom seemed like it would only happen if they bowed down and worshipped the false idol-god of King Nebuchadnezzar. But they knew that was not the case; if they gave into idol worship, they would lose their heritage and never be free from the harsh slavery they faced at Nebuchadnezzar's hands. They found freedom in the fire, and came forth from it rejoicing and vindicated.
The Jews in Jesus' day felt that they could only find freedom in the Law, but it was in fact the law that bound them tighter and kept them from true worship. They were offered the Truth, and it was only in the truth that they could ever hope to be free.
We too receive the gift of freedom through Christ, who is the Way, the Truth and the Life. Our way to freedom is to turn from whatever has bound us up in this world's lies, and come to know more fully the Truth that sets us free.