Friday, October 2, 2026

Scripture

“Now, however, that you have come to know God, or rather to be known by God, how can you turn back again to the weak and beggarly elemental spirits?” Galatians 4:9

Reflections

The words “should”, “need” and “ought to” are often overused within the Church.  Such words reflect a sense of obligation to adhere to the demands of God’s Law, the Ten Commandments.  For example, “You should follow God’s ways.”  Although such a statement would be correct, it also reveals the individual’s attitude.  Rather than seeing it as a joy to follow in God’s ways, it is a burden.

The Jewish people at the time of the Apostle Paul were emphasizing the need to follow the Law.  By nature, the law does not free.  It leaves us in bondage.  We are in bondage to sin and cannot free ourselves.  We are all convicted.  All the joy gets sucked out of life.

When preachers incessantly speak about how we “need to do better”, it leaves the hearers discouraged, defeated, and beat up.  Instead of motivating people to serve in love because it is a good thing, it leaves them in their sinfulness.

People need to hear about more than their sinful human condition.  They need to hear of the unconditional love of God that gives us the strength to get back up after we stumble.  We’ve come to know the good news of Jesus Christ.  That’s what gives us joy in serving.

Prayer

Lord God, thank you for making yourself known to me through Jesus Christ.  Help me to keep my eyes focused on what you have done for me that I might joyfully follow your ways.  In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Full Reading: Galatians 4:8-11