The scripture readings from today teach us that fidelity to God’s Word is at the very core of our Christian faith. Throughout the scriptures we discover that faith does not mean blindly believing in things or events. Rather, faith is shown to be a profound trust placed in a person. Our loyalty to our faith simply means having a profound trust in God. We have faith that what God tells us – through the scriptures and through his church – is the truth. We have faith that his will for us is in our best interest. And we have faith that his promises will be fulfilled. In other words, we take God at his word. Like Abraham in this week’s first reading, we are called to embrace God’s word, his guidance and his promises. In turn, he will lead us to peace and happiness, and, ultimately, eternal life. This Lenten season is a good time to focus on God’s Word and how it guides our lives. It is in deepening our relationship with God that we deepen our trust in him; and from that our obedience to his will flows naturally.