08/25/2026
Today's reading from the Word Among Us is taken from 2 Thessalonians 2:1-3, 14-17 "Let no one deceive you in any way"
How often have you, a family member or friend been 'shaken our of their minds suddenly' by something you saw online or heard on the radio & news? (2 Thes 2:2) St. Paul didn't have social media, satellite communication, or AI, but he did have to deal with his own challenges. It seems that the believers in Thessalonica had been disturbed by a forged letter or a false 'prophecy' that came from Paul saying the Second Coming was just around the corner. You can only imagine the kind of spiritual havoc such a message could wreak!
Today we live in a world in which it is increasingly difficult to discern what is real or true. That means it's more important than ever for us to be careful and responsible of media. Even when the material is authentic, we might still find ourselves troubled in spirit. The sheer volume of bad news can be corrosive and discouraging. So it's easy to see how information overload can affect us. It can make you more suspicious or closed off to others; it can cause you to spend more time on social media or tv; it may even cause you to be quick to write a person off if they disagree with you.
But let's look at how we can respond to these harmful influences. Cutting out some media time is one part of the equation. But the other part is just as important: replace it with times of intentional quiet listening in the presence of the Lord. He can help you to 'stand firm and hold fast to traditions that you were taught' (2 Thes 2:15). You can do this by seeking refuge in the Scriptures or by focusing on the beautiful qualities that you see in other humans or nature, all that were created by God and deeply loved by the Lord.
Do everything you can to remain grounded in Our Lord Jesus Christ and God our Father. (2 Thes 2:16). Not only will you be protected from the worst of the rancor and division, but you can find the peace that only the Lord can give. 🙏🏻📖
