Thursday, 3 February, 2005

Text: Galatians 3:10-14



For all who rely on the works of the law are under a curse; for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who does not observe and obey all the things written in the book of the law." Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law; for "The one who is righteious will live by faith." But the law does not rest on faith; on the contrary, "Whoever does the works of the law will live by them." Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us - for it is written, "Cursed is everyone who hands on a tree" - in order that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.



Cursed is a strong word. And yet if you live within a system that says this is the way it must be or else. Cursed is very appropriate. Unfortunately, the system Paul speaks of here is one in which no one can follow every letter of the law. This does not mean the law - as guide and teacher - is to be thrown out. Not at all. Rather, we cannot count on our status before God as status gained by following the law. Why!?! Not even Jesus would pass that...Hanging on a tree the way he did at his death. Our position and righteousness is a matter of faith - trusting God's word of love and forgiveness & making it our only claim to be the daughters and sons of God - beloved. The blessing on the insiders has become a blessing for the whole world through Jesus. We stand this day with all the Ancestors of the Faith. We stand with Abraham - trusting that God will be our God - trusting that the promises of God are indeed good for life!



Connection: We are blessed! Yes, no matter what the day holds for us...we are blessed. Rather than facing life as though we may be "cursed" at any moment, we can expect to be swept up into God's arms and made welcome into the blessed Reign of God. How's that for a life connection.



Most Gracious God, by your grace made known to us in Jesus and your faithfulness that encouraged Abraham to trust in you alone we ask that your Spirit teach us the ways of life in which we count on you for our vitality and joy. Amen