The young today are often confronted with crisis in self-identity and relationships with others. They are also unsure of what responses to give in various life situations. They ask, "How do we know that the choices we make daily are in accordance with Christ's teachings?" What answers can the adults offer them?

The first reading from Proverbs states that "To make a fortune with the help of a lying tongue such is the idle fancy of those who look for death," (Prov. 21:6). This is where the crisis in life sets, when they have to back up one lie with other lies. This "cover up" game reduces the person to a victim of circumstances!

Can such people find in the words of Jesus any relief? Yes! "My mother and my brothers are those who hear the word of God and put it into practice." These words challenge us to be authentic in our Christian living where faith and action reveal the love of God in and through us. There is greater acceptance of self and others when we do not have to make a fortune with the help of a lying tongue.