Last week we followed the book of Daniel. It is one of my favourites. He’s a plucky sort who always fights and wins against the odds. Everyday I went to mass and followed his activities. On Monday, as a mere lad he refuses at risk of death to follow the pagan dietary laws. “At the end of the ten days they looked healthier and better nourished than any of the young men who ate the royal food.” Later the King was to take Daniel with the utmost respect into his confidence and Daniel became a most trusted advisor. The Old Testament can be very positive in demonstrating the way in which God looks after those who suffer and make sacrifices for him.