THIRD THURSDAY OF ADVENT
DANIEL, THE DREAM OF SALVATION
SCRIPTURE
READING: Dan 6:
10-23
Daniel
was a young man taken captive to Babylon during the exile of
the Israelites. Despite living in a foreign land filled with challenges and
temptations, Daniel remained faithful to God. He refused to
compromise his faith, praying daily even when it was forbidden. This courage
led to him being thrown into the lions' den, yet God protected him,
and he emerged unharmed (Daniel 6:22).
Daniel's
friends, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, also demonstrated
incredible faith. When they refused to worship a golden statue, they were
thrown into a fiery furnace. God miraculously saved them, and a
divine figure—often seen as a foreshadowing of Christ—was present
with them in the fire (Daniel 3:25).
Daniel's
story is one of unwavering faith, trust, and courage. It teaches us to stay
committed to God even in the face of persecution or danger. His visions and
prophecies also point to the coming of the Messiah and God’s
eternal kingdom.
PRAYER:
Lord,
thank You for the courage and faithfulness of Daniel. Help us to trust You even
in difficult situations. Strengthen our faith so we can stand firm and know
that You are always with us. Amen.
