Today’s reading from the book of the prophet Daniel is gripping — like something out of a courtroom drama. Two respected elders, full of deceit, attempt to destroy the reputation and life of a virtuous woman. Susanna is cornered not just by their lust but by the terrifying weight of injustice.
Imagine this: a young girl, falsely accused, standing in the center of a circle, condemned by powerful men. Her voice is trembling, her hands shaking, but her heart is rooted in something unshakable — truth when truth hangs in the balance. And yet, she stands firm, even when no one believes her.
She cries out not to the world but to God. And God hears. That’s Susanna’s story — truthfully, it could be ours, too. Susanna’s story is not ancient history. It’s happening every day — when character is questioned, when assumptions are made, and when the voices of the innocent are too soft to be heard over the noise of pride, gossip, and power.
Speaking Truth in Whispers
Have you ever been misunderstood in your own family? Maybe your good intention was mistaken. Maybe you tried to speak up, and it backfired. Or perhaps your teenager came home, eyes full of worry because they were wrongly blamed for something at school. These stories happen — in our kitchens, at our reading groups, at PTA meetings, and even at church.
The young Daniel steps forward, not with swords, but with wisdom. Daniel was young, not yet a prophet. He doesn't shout or rage. He simply separates the liars and asks the right questions. Truth doesn’t need drama; it just needs light. Sometimes, the people who save us don’t wear uniforms, robes, or collars. Sometimes, they’re our children, asking us why we’re upset. Sometimes, they’re the spouse, a friend, or a coworker who quietly holds our hand when we feel defeated. And often, truth is spoken not in grand sermons but in the whispered words of bedtime prayers.
Respecting the Needs of Others
A dad once shared how his habit of hiding work stress led to constant irritability. When he finally admitted, “I’m overwhelmed,” his family rallied around him—scheduling “quiet hours” and surprising him with encouragement notes. The truth didn’t fix everything, but it let the light in.
So how do we become Daniels in our homes? We listen before we judge. We ask instead of assuming. We speak truth, even if our voices tremble. And above all, we create space for others to be heard — especially our children, our elders, and the quiet ones at the edge of the dinner table.
And how do we become like Susanna? We refuse to compromise our integrity, even when no one else is watching. We trust that our worth comes not from the opinions of others but from the God who knows us completely.
No One is Perfect
Let’s be honest: families aren’t perfect. We bump heads, we misread each other, we lose patience. But in the middle of all that, there is a light — the light of Christ. He’s not afraid of our mess. He stands right in the middle of it, saying, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness.” That’s not just poetry — it’s power. It’s the power that breaks the lies spoken in back rooms. It’s the light that reveals hidden motives and protects the innocent.
May we raise our children to be Daniels — wise, brave, and bold.
May we nurture hearts like Susanna's — faithful, honest, and strong.
And may our families be places where truth is protected and God’s light never dims.
- Father Boby's inspirational homily was recorded live during Mass at the Father Peyton Center this morning. Usually, you can view the Mass (and the Rosary at the 30-minute mark), but today, we had technical difficulties, so the Rosary and Mass are only on Facebook (see the link below). The homily can be found here on the Family Rosary YouTube page.
- To join the Rosary and Mass Livestream, visit the Family Rosary YouTube or Facebook page at 11:30 a.m. Eastern, Monday – Friday. Consider inviting others to join too! (*If you are not a member of Facebook and a signup window appears, simply select the X at the top of the pop-up message and continue to the livestream.)
