“If we ask people today, “What do you want most in life?” many would probably answer: “I want peace.” “I want security.” “I want a happy family.” “I want a better future.”

That is why people work hard, save money, build houses, buy gadgets, and try to become successful. There is nothing wrong with these things. But in today’s Gospel, Jesus reminds us that the deepest meaning of life is something more.

He says: “This is eternal life: that they should know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You sent.”

Notice that Jesus did not say eternal life begins only after death. Eternal life begins now, the moment we truly know God and allow Him to become part of our daily life.

But what does it really mean “to know God”?

It is not only knowing prayers, Bible verses, or Church teachings. A person can memorize many prayers and still live far from God. In the Bible, “to know” means relationship. It means closeness. Trust. Friendship. Love.

For example, a child may know many facts about his father — his birthday, favorite food, or work — but if they never talk, never spend time together, and never listen to each other, then the relationship becomes weak.

The same thing can happen in our spiritual life. Some people know about God, but they do not truly know Him personally.

To know God means speaking to Him in prayer, trusting Him during difficult moments, thanking Him during blessings, and trying to follow His ways every day.

That is why Jesus came into the world — to show us the heart of God. When we see Jesus forgiving sinners, healing the sick, feeding the hungry, and comforting the brokenhearted, we see what God is truly like: merciful, patient, compassionate, and loving.

And if we truly know God, it should slowly change the way we live.

A person who truly knows God becomes more kind and understanding. Not perfect, but softer in heart.

For example, instead of quickly judging people online, we become more careful with our words. Instead of spreading fake news or hatred, we try to spread truth and encouragement. Instead of always thinking only of ourselves, we begin to notice the needs of others.

That is already a sign that God is working in us.

Today many people have more gadgets but less peace. More online followers but less real friendship. More entertainment but more anxiety and emptiness. Why? Because the human heart was created not only for success, but for God. Without God, there is always an emptiness inside that money, popularity, or pleasure cannot fully satisfy.

My dear brothers and sisters,

Life today is not easy. Many people are worried about finances, family problems, sickness, political tensions, and uncertainty about the future. Sometimes people smile outside but carry heavy burdens inside.

But when we truly know God, we realize we are not alone. God walks with us. God listens to us. God remains faithful even during painful moments.

And perhaps the best proof that we know God is this: People experience kindness, peace, and hope after meeting us.

At the end of life, God may not ask us how rich or famous we became. Perhaps the deeper question will be: “Did you truly know Me?” “And did your life help others know Me too?”

May we continue not only to believe in God, but to know Him personally, love Him deeply, and follow Him faithfully every day.”