Happy New year to all our readers.
In our second reading St. Paul says that we are “no longer a slave anymore, but a son and an heir” what can he mean by this statement?
In this modern age when “identity theft” is so extensive and threatening to everyone’s personal financial world, it’s a good time to reflect on our true identity. This is what St. Paul is helping us to do today in his letter to the Christian people of Galatia (Galatians 4:4-7).
The point of his whole letter seems to be an attempt to persuade the new Christians to ignore the “Judaizers” – Jewish leaders who want the Christians to “buy into the lie” that salvation comes only from following the Torah, the Law of Moses. Jesus’ mother was indeed Jewish. Therefore, according to the Torah her child was subject to the Law of Moses.
St. Paul didn’t mention Mary’s name in today’s passage. He speaks about Mary in this way because he is emphasising Mary’s role in God’s plan. It was through her that the Son of God entered the human race as a true human being and as a Jewish male.
By comparing what Jesus accomplished to what the Law provided, Paul is able to say that those who believe in Jesus are no longer slaves but children of God. The Spirit of the Son enables them to cry out “Abba, Father!” (cf. Romans 8:15-17). This way of addressing God expresses confidence and intimacy. As free, mature children of God, believers also realise that with Jesus they will inherit all the good that God wishes to give them. This Galatians text provides a basis for giving Mary the title “Mother of God”.
So never forget your true identity: you are a beloved child of God! The Evil One wants to steal your identity. But the Father truly loves youu, and wants you to call him Daddy (Abba). Remember: in the fullness of time, God’s time, He sent His Son so that you, if you believe, can become His own son or daughter through Jesus Christ! Halleluiah!!
As we start the New Year, may I give you the same blessing as Aaron (1st reading) and St Francis of Assisi
The LORD bless you and keep you!
The LORD let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you!
The LORD look upon you with kindness and
give you His peace! Now and forever more. Amen.
In our second reading St. Paul says that we are “no longer a slave anymore, but a son and an heir” what can he mean by this statement?
In this modern age when “identity theft” is so extensive and threatening to everyone’s personal financial world, it’s a good time to reflect on our true identity. This is what St. Paul is helping us to do today in his letter to the Christian people of Galatia (Galatians 4:4-7).
The point of his whole letter seems to be an attempt to persuade the new Christians to ignore the “Judaizers” – Jewish leaders who want the Christians to “buy into the lie” that salvation comes only from following the Torah, the Law of Moses. Jesus’ mother was indeed Jewish. Therefore, according to the Torah her child was subject to the Law of Moses.
St. Paul didn’t mention Mary’s name in today’s passage. He speaks about Mary in this way because he is emphasising Mary’s role in God’s plan. It was through her that the Son of God entered the human race as a true human being and as a Jewish male.
By comparing what Jesus accomplished to what the Law provided, Paul is able to say that those who believe in Jesus are no longer slaves but children of God. The Spirit of the Son enables them to cry out “Abba, Father!” (cf. Romans 8:15-17). This way of addressing God expresses confidence and intimacy. As free, mature children of God, believers also realise that with Jesus they will inherit all the good that God wishes to give them. This Galatians text provides a basis for giving Mary the title “Mother of God”.
So never forget your true identity: you are a beloved child of God! The Evil One wants to steal your identity. But the Father truly loves youu, and wants you to call him Daddy (Abba). Remember: in the fullness of time, God’s time, He sent His Son so that you, if you believe, can become His own son or daughter through Jesus Christ! Halleluiah!!
As we start the New Year, may I give you the same blessing as Aaron (1st reading) and St Francis of Assisi
The LORD bless you and keep you!
The LORD let his face shine upon you, and be gracious to you!
The LORD look upon you with kindness and
give you His peace! Now and forever more. Amen.
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