Bible passages: Galatians 2:20-21
“I have been crucified with Christ; it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me; and the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. I do not nullify the grace of God; for if justification were through the law, then Christ died for no purpose.”
Reflections:
St Paul writes this particular letter to the Galatians to recount a disagreement with Saint Peter. Chapter 2 outlines the issue they have while preaching to two groups of Gentiles (one adhering to the Mosaic Law calling for circumcision and the other one no longer observing this Law) and St Peter interacted freely with one group but withdrew from them out of fear when the other group arrived.
St Paul says that he no longer lives as himself, but with Christ abiding in him. The fact that Christ abides in him enables him to live truly in that gift. St Paul tells us in implied fashion that the life he led before was self-centred. Now that Christ dwells within him, he now lives in the faith to the Son of God, lest he throws away the very grace of God that he was given.
This reinforces to us how important it is to evaluate whether we are making smart choices and decisions that bring us closer to God. The temptation is always there for us to do the easy thing, the self-centred thing and take the action that won’t ruffle feathers or offend anyone. Christ calls us to do better than that. He calls us to live in the knowledge that He loves us and died for us.
Finally, let us live a life which does not set aside God’s grace since without God’s grace, all is vain.
Discussion Questions:
1) Is Christ living in you (manifested by keeping His commandments)?
2) Are you living by faith in Christ (trusting His Word?) Please elaborate.
3) In what ways do you trust in the grace of God (not your own goodness or obedience)?
Let us pray:
Dear God, I thank you for your grace that has made me who I am today. I know that without your grace, I am nothing. I claim the promise that your grace given to me is not futile, and I pray that I may work harder to fulfil your purpose for my life. I acknowledge that it is not by my own strength, but by your grace that I am able to achieve many things. May your grace continue to be with me always, guiding me and empowering me to do your will. In Jesus’ name, I pray!
Amen!
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