FROM THE SERVANT GENERAL
OUR THEME FOR 2023
(Part 7)
FAITH WORKING THROUGH LOVE
October 11, 2022
Today’s reading: Galatians 5:1-6
Paul says that for a Christian, what is important is “only faith working through love.” (v.6b).
He had been talking about circumcision, saying it was not necessary to be circumcised in order to become a Christian. Circumcision was part of the covenant between God and Abraham, and the Jews that turned to Jesus insisted it had to be done. Paul says no, since in Christ we have been set free. “For freedom Christ set us free; so stand firm and do not submit again to the yoke of slavery.” (v.1).
This does not mean that we are no longer to obey human laws, which are needed for good order in society, or God’s laws, which God gives in order to govern our lives in His righteousness. But observance of God’s law is not to be legalistic, or forced, otherwise we are enslaved by such law. Rather, such observance of the law must arise out of our faith in and love for Jesus.
Consider: The Pharisees were strict observers of the law, but were called hypocrites by Jesus, because they observed the practices but were not converted in their hearts. As another example, Catholics today may go to Mass on Sundays because it is required, but many do not have the right disposition for fervent observance of this obligation.
So we are never “justified by law” (v.4b). Our justification is by faith alone. So what is important is to be firm in faith and founded on love. We put our faith in Jesus as Savior and Lord, and we live out the commandments of love. Such is the way to righteousness, which is our hope. “For through the Spirit, by faith, we await the hope of righteousness. For in Christ Jesus, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith working through love.” (v.5-6).
