"You, O Lord, are my shield; my glory, you lift up my head!" - Psalm 3
Today's reading continues the theme of choosing to follow God, even when tempted to turn away from Him for a moment. In the first reading, Eleazar refuses to eat pork, which would have been a violation of the covenant with God. Eleazar says that he would, "die willingly and generously for the revered and holy laws." Eleazar does this not only to observe the laws of God, but he does it to be an example to the young generations. He realizes that his actions not only affect his soul, but also the souls of those around him. Eleazar says that, "Should I pretend for the sake of a brief moment of life, they would be led astray by me."
This brings out a very important point. What we do, whether we realize it or not, affects our children and those who look up to us. If they see us angry or sinning against the law of God, they will be influenced and be more likely to follow our bad example.
Let us instead take God as our "shield" an go into the battle of everyday life with God at our side not only for our sake, but also for the sake of those who are coming after us in battle, that they may be able to withstand the test as well.
