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Saturday, October 13, 2012

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Galatians 3:22-29
Psalm 105:2-7
Luke 11:27-28

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the "life of faith" (gal 2:20)

The promise will "be fulfilled in those who believe, in consequence of faith in Jesus Christ." —Galatians 3:22

"Before faith came we were under the constraint of the law, locked in" (Gal 3:23). In addition to being set free in Jesus, we received justification through faith (Gal 3:24). Third, we became sons and daughters of God because of our faith in Christ Jesus (Gal 3:26). By living our Baptisms through faith, we become clothed with Jesus (Gal 3:27). We look and act like Jesus. We become holy in every aspect of our conduct (1 Pt 1:15). Because we look like Jesus, we look like others who look like Jesus. We "are one in Christ" (Gal 3:28). Furthermore, by faith we "inherit all that was promised" (Gal 3:29; see also Heb 11:33). The life of faith (Gal 2:20) is a life of freedom, justification, holiness, and unity. By grace through faith (Eph 2:8), we live as children of God and heirs of God's kingdom.

Therefore, pray:

  • "Increase our faith" (Lk 17:5).
  • "I do believe! Help my lack of faith!" (Mk 9:24, our transl.)
  • "Fear is useless. Only believe" (Mk 5:36, our transl.).

Therefore, meditate day and night on God's word (Ps 1:2), for faith comes through hearing and hearing by God's word (Rm 10:17, our transl.).

"When the Son of Man comes, will He find any faith on the earth?" (Lk 18:8)

Prayer:  Father, I completely submit my mind and will to You (Catechism, 143). May I have and live faith.

Promise:  "Blest are they who hear the word of God and keep it." —Lk 11:28

Praise:  Wendell and Nancy transported their children to sports practices for years. They finally decided in prayer to pull the plug on all sports. Now they all attend daily Mass, eat family meals, pray a daily Rosary, and go on family campouts. Their children are happier now than ever before.

Rescript:  †Most Reverend Joseph R. Binzer, Auxiliary Bishop, Vicar General of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, May 10, 2012

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