For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything; the only thing that counts is faith working through love.
—Galatians 5:6
This might read like a strange verse to use for a morning devotion. We tend to gloss over some passages in the Bible and stick to the ones that feel the most comfortable, where the language is closer to our modern wording, or on topics that seem less daunting. Rather than getting caught up in certain words like circumcision, more generally Paul is talking about the use of the law and how to use it now that Jesus has come—how to live in a post-Easter world. What are we to do now with all these rules in the Hebrew Bible that at one time seemed the best way to follow God, the best way to show our faith?
It isn’t that these laws no longer matter or have relevance, but what Paul is opening our eyes to is the freedom that comes through the gift of Jesus. No longer is the way we show our faith only through our bodies, what food we eat, or the way we observe the Sabbath. In Paul’s words, “the only thing that counts is faith working through love.” This is our bottom line on what is really important.
So often we ask ourselves and our fellow Christians what the correct choices are. Should I listen to this type of music? Is it okay that I went to go see this movie? What would God think of me if I did A, B, or C? It is good to ask these questions because it shows that you are actively engaged in your life of faith. It is always good to examine your choices through your faith-filled heart. And in situations where the path is uncertain and we don’t know that right answer, maybe this verse might help you discern the best path— “the only thing that counts is faith working through love.”
Prayer
Hopeful God, this world is often filled with many choices. You have given us your word to help guide us in making decisions and living a faithful life. When the journey becomes difficult, we invite you into our hearts and minds, grateful for the reminder to live in faith and love in all we do. Amen.