We have been
hearing stories from the book of Daniel this week that are so vivid and
imaginative. Today, we hear of Shadrach,
Meschach, and Abednego in a wonderful story of three young men putting faith
into action. These men had confidence in
God that went way beyond delivering them from the fiery furnace. When they faced the situation of either
choosing to worship an idol or to demonstrate their faith in God, they were not
persuaded by the apparent consequence of that decision. They seem indifferent as to whether or not
God would save them from the fires of the furnace. They believed that God had the power to save
them, but that it was his choice whether he would save them or not. They followed God and they believed in him
because he was God and because of the reality of who he was. What a remarkable faith these men had!
King Nebuchadnezzar thought of himself
in god-like terms, asking “Who is the God who can deliver you out of my
hands?” He was shocked at the audacity
of anyone who could imagine himself as more powerful. We also sometimes think we don’t have to bow
to God and recognize his power. Often,
that can lead us to so many problems.
As we reflect upon the message we hear
today from the book of Daniel, may God save us from the blindness we have to
God’s presence in our daily lives. May
God open our eyes to his mighty works as they are present in our reality. May each of us recognize and accept God's
answers to our questions about who he is.
May we respond to God with humility and gratitude.
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