Let us pray with today’s Gospel Reading (John 8:51-59)

Lord Jesus Christ,

We stand before this mystery with awe and humility, for Your word is life, Your presence is eternity, and Your truth leads us beyond the limits of death. Lord, increase our faith, that we may believe in Your promises even when we do not fully understand. In a world marked by fear, doubt, and confusion, anchor our hearts in the certainty of Your Word. You revealed Your divine identity, saying, “Before Abraham was, I AM.” You are the eternal God, the One who is, who was, and who is to come. Help us to recognize You not only as a teacher or prophet, but as our Lord and our God.

Forgive us, O Lord, for the times we reject Your truth, for the moments we resist Your voice, and for the pride that blinds our hearts. Remove from us every hardness of heart, that we may not turn away from You as those who could not accept Your word, but instead receive You with humility and love. Teach us to keep Your Word faithfully, not only to hear it, but to live it in our daily lives. May Your commandments be our guide, Your truth our light, and Your love our strength.

Lord Jesus, deliver us from the fear of death, and fill us with the hope of eternal life. Help us to live as people who belong to You, with our eyes fixed on the promise of heaven. When trials come, when our faith is tested, give us the courage to stand firm in You, trusting that Your Word is truth and Your promises never fail. May our lives bear witness to the eternity You offer and may we one day share fully in the life that never ends. Amen