The life of Daniel: what lessons for us?

Friday September 3, 2021

Theme : “ The life of Daniel: what lessons for us? " Text : Daniel 10: 1-12

1. In the third year of Cyrus king of Persia a word was revealed to Daniel, whose name was Belzhazar. This word, which is true, announces a great calamity. He listened to this word, and he understood the vision. 2. At that time I, Daniel, mourned three weeks. 3. I ate no delicacies, neither meat nor wine came into my mouth, nor anointed myself until the three weeks were completed. 4. On the twenty-fourth day of the first month, I was at the edge of the great river which is Hiddekel. 5. I lifted up my eyes, and looked, and behold, there was a man clothed in linen, and having a gold girdle of Uphaz on his loins. 6. His body was like chrysolite, his face shone like lightning, his eyes were like flames of fire, his arms and feet were like polished brass, and the sound of his voice was like the sound of fire. 'many. 7. I, Daniel, alone saw the vision, and the men who were with me did not see it, but they were terrified, and they fled to hide themselves. 8. I was left alone, and I saw this great vision; my strength failed me, my face changed color and was broken down, and I lost all vigor. 9. I heard the sound of his words; and as I heard the sound of his words, I fell stunned, face down on the ground. 10. And behold, a hand touched me, and shook my knees and my hands. 11. Then he said to me, Daniel, beloved man, listen carefully to the words that I am going to speak to you, and stand in the place where you are; for I am now sent to you. When he had spoken thus to me, I stood trembling. 12. He said to me, Daniel, fear not; for from the first day when it was your heart to understand, and to humble yourself before your God, your words have been heard, and it is because of your words that I come.

Let us remember :

God was revealing himself to Daniel and he took all of these revelations seriously and ignored any of them. Daniel was attentive to the language of God and he had the intelligence to interpret the divine message. Daniel knew how to fast and pray for several weeks. He mourned before God and men. He could not eat anything, drink anything delicate, neither meat nor wine. He could not put on perfume or beauty cream until the three weeks were completed. He was before the face of God to listen attentively to his instructions. He bowed down to God to revere his majesty. He was not running away from God but was strengthening himself. He did not resist God but he obeyed him. When Daniel lacked strength, he bowed down, surrendering himself before God so that he could raise him from his weaknesses. Daniel was persuasive before God because his prayer was answered from the first day of the three weeks of intense prayer. Daniel's fidelity forced the admiration of God who did not prevent himself from meeting him face to face. Excellent Friday and good entry into the weekend. Amen Alain Louz.-