DISCERNING TRUTH IN A WORLD OF NOISE

 Divine Appeal Reflection - 229

Today, consider in Divine Appeal 229: "Do not pay attention to everything you are told. Heed My words which are of the utmost authority and security in confused times like these."

In an age of relentless noise, where countless voices compete for attention, our Adorable Jesus warns us to be discerning. The world presents a flood of opinions, ideologies, and so-called truths, yet not all lead to life. The Catechism reminds us that authentic faith does not rely on human reasoning alone but is a response to God's revelation, which offers the only secure foundation (cf. CCC 154). Without this anchor, souls are easily swayed by whatever seems appealing or convenient. The path to holiness demands a firm trust in Christ’s word, refusing to be drawn into the shifting sands of worldly thinking.

Many voices today distort truth under the guise of progress, freedom, or even compassion. The voice of relativism denies absolute moral law, convincing souls that truth is personal and subjective (cf. CCC 1750). Social pressures normalize sin, making virtue seem outdated, while modern distractions weaken spiritual discipline. There is also the voice of self-sufficiency, which deceives souls into believing they can thrive without God, gradually drawing them into pride and spiritual indifference (cf. Jn 15:5). These influences, subtle yet powerful, erode faith and lead many to walk away from the light of Christ.

The enemy often speaks through fear, filling hearts with doubt and discouragement. He distorts reality, making struggles seem insurmountable and God’s mercy seem distant. In contrast, our Adorable Jesus invites souls to trust completely in His divine providence (cf. Phil 4:6-7). Another dangerous deception is a false understanding of mercy that excuses sin rather than leading to true repentance. Authentic mercy calls souls back to holiness, not complacency (cf. CCC 1847). Apathy is equally dangerous; spiritual laziness dulls the soul, delaying conversion and leaving it vulnerable to temptation. Without vigilance, a slow drift from God begins, often unnoticed until faith is nearly extinguished.

To resist these deceptive voices, the soul must cultivate silence, allowing Christ’s voice to reign. This means choosing daily prayer, immersing oneself in Scripture, frequenting the sacraments, and seeking truth from the Church rather than fleeting opinions. Holiness is not passive; it requires intentional choices that align the heart with divine wisdom. Souls who remain close to our Adorable Jesus will not be shaken by the confusion of the times. Instead, they will walk securely in His truth, shining as beacons for others lost in deception.

Prayer

O our Adorable Jesus, silence the noise that seeks to lead us astray. Fill us with Your wisdom and strengthen our hearts against deception. May we listen only to Your voice, walk in Your truth, and find our refuge in You. Draw us ever closer, that we may reflect Your light.

Sr. Anna Ali of the Most Holy Eucharist, intercede for us.