Ecclesiasticus 15:16-21
Ps:118(119):1-2,4-5,17-18,33-34
1 Corinthians 2:6-10
Matthew 5:17-37
TRUE LOVE SUMS UP THE LAW AND LEADS TO HOLINESS
What guides our moral decisions? For a good Jew, it’s obedience to the Law, revealed by God, as the psalm states: “Blessed are those who walk in the law of the Lord.” Jesus also emphasized the Law, saying he came to fulfill, not abolish, it, contrary to people’s misguided expectations. Today, many focus on his commandment of love, often misusing it. Jesus fulfilled the Law through God’s will, and we must do the same—avoid blasphemy, theft, lying, murder and adultery. The law alone isn’t enough; love is essential. Saint Augustine said, “Love and do what you like,” meaning love sums up the law. True love for God and neighbor fulfills the law, making commandments instinctive. However, loving God fully is challenging—our failure to always do his will shows our lack of love. Jesus promised that fulfilling his commandments and embodying love will glorify the Father and lead us to sainthood.
Fr Joseph Osho
