The Call to Live by Grace

Today’s Mass readings invite us to reflect deeply on the nature of faith and how it informs our relationship with God. The central theme connecting these readings is the contrast between the law and faith, and the call to embrace the freedom and grace that come through belief in Jesus Christ. In his letter to the Galatians, St. Paul challenges us to trust in faith rather than relying on the law to attain righteousness. The Psalmist, meanwhile, calls us to offer praise and thanksgiving to God for His mighty works, reminding us of His faithfulness and mercy. In the Gospel, Jesus speaks about spiritual warfare, warning us against the dangers of division and complacency in our spiritual lives.

Together, these readings provide a holistic vision of what it means to live in faith. They remind us that our salvation is not something we can earn through our own efforts; rather, it is a gift freely given by God and received through faith. They also challenge us to live out our faith in gratitude and humility, constantly aware of the spiritual battle that takes place in our hearts and in the world. As we explore each reading, let’s reflect on how we are called to rely on God’s grace, praise Him for His marvelous works, and remain vigilant in our spiritual journey.

First Reading – Galatians 3:7-14

Faith or Works? St. Paul’s Answer to the Galatians

The letter to the Galatians stands as one of St. Paul’s most urgent letters, written to a community he had evangelized but which had since been led astray by false teachers. The Galatians were being influenced by Judaizers, a faction within early Christianity that insisted that Gentile converts had to follow the Jewish Law, particularly the rite of circumcision, to be truly saved. Paul’s frustration with this teaching is evident throughout the letter, as he stresses the futility of trying to achieve righteousness through the works of the law. For Paul, salvation is found only through faith in Jesus Christ.

Today’s passage falls within a larger argument in which Paul contrasts the blessings of faith with the curse of the law. He uses the figure of Abraham—the patriarch of Israel, but also the spiritual father of all believers—as a central figure to explain how God’s covenant and promise extend beyond the boundaries of the Jewish law to all who believe.

Galatians 3:7-14
New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

⁷ so, you see, those who believe are the descendants of Abraham. ⁸ And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, declared the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying, “All the Gentiles shall be blessed in you.” ⁹ For this reason, those who believe are blessed with Abraham who believed.
¹⁰ For all who rely on the works of the law are under a curse; for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who does not observe and obey all the things written in the book of the law.” ¹¹ Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law; for “The one who is righteous will live by faith.” ¹² But the law does not rest on faith; on the contrary, “Whoever does the works of the law will live by them.” ¹³ Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree”— ¹⁴ in order that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.

Detailed Exegesis

Verse 7: “So, you see, those who believe are the descendants of Abraham.”
Paul starts by affirming that faith, not ethnicity or the law, makes someone a true descendant of Abraham. Abraham is called the “father of faith” (Romans 4:11), and those who believe like him are part of his spiritual lineage.

Verse 8: “And the scripture, foreseeing that God would justify the Gentiles by faith, declared the gospel beforehand to Abraham, saying, ‘All the Gentiles shall be blessed in you.’”
Here, Paul quotes Genesis 12:3 to show that God’s plan for salvation through faith was always intended for all people, not just the Jews. The blessing promised to Abraham extends to the Gentiles, fulfilling God’s universal covenant.

Verse 9: “For this reason, those who believe are blessed with Abraham who believed.”
Paul reiterates that just as Abraham was counted righteous because of his faith, so too are all believers—Jew and Gentile—blessed through faith.

Verse 10: “For all who rely on the works of the law are under a curse; for it is written, ‘Cursed is everyone who does not observe and obey all the things written in the book of the law.’”
Paul quotes Deuteronomy 27:26, warning that those who attempt to live by the law must obey it perfectly. Since no one can do this, relying on the law brings a curse.

Verse 11: “Now it is evident that no one is justified before God by the law; for ‘The one who is righteous will live by faith.’”
This verse quotes Habakkuk 2:4, emphasizing that righteousness comes through faith, not legalistic adherence to the law.

Verse 12: “But the law does not rest on faith; on the contrary, ‘Whoever does the works of the law will live by them.’”
Paul contrasts faith and law: while the law demands works, faith relies on grace. The law cannot give life; only faith in Christ can.

Verse 13: “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us—for it is written, ‘Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree’—”
Paul alludes to Deuteronomy 21:23, explaining that Jesus took the curse of the law upon Himself by dying on the cross. Through His death, we are freed from the law’s curse.

Verse 14: “In order that in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come to the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.”
The culmination of Christ’s sacrifice is that the blessing promised to Abraham—the blessing of righteousness and life with God—comes to all people, not just Jews, and is received through faith. The promise of the Holy Spirit is now available to all who believe in Christ.

Teachings and References

This passage ties deeply into Catholic teaching on salvation and grace. The Catechism of the Catholic Church affirms that “justification comes from the grace of God” (CCC 1996) and that it is conferred through faith and Baptism. St. Paul’s insistence that salvation cannot be earned through the law echoes the Church’s teaching that grace is a free gift. In Lumen Gentium (Dogmatic Constitution on the Church), the Second Vatican Council speaks of the universal call to holiness and salvation through Christ, reminding us that this call extends to all nations, echoing Paul’s reference to the Gentiles receiving the promise.

Reflection

St. Paul’s message to the Galatians is a powerful reminder that we cannot earn our way into God’s love. It’s easy in our modern lives to fall into a similar trap—thinking that if we just do enough good things, follow all the rules, and check off all the boxes, we’ll be “good enough” for God. Are there areas of your life where you are trying to rely on your own strength or good works to gain favor with God? What would it look like to let go of those efforts and trust more deeply in God’s grace?

Responsorial Psalm – Psalm 111:1-6

The Marvel of God’s Works

Psalm 111 is part of a group of psalms known as the Hallelujah psalms, which open with the exclamation “Praise the Lord!” These psalms are characterized by their focus on the majesty of God’s works, His faithfulness to His covenant, and His ongoing care for His people. In Psalm 111, the psalmist invites us to reflect on God’s wondrous deeds, both in creation and in salvation history. The psalm offers praise for God’s mercy, righteousness, and providence, and it emphasizes the communal nature of worship, encouraging us to praise God not just in private, but in the assembly of believers.

Psalm 111:1-6
New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

Praise for God’s Wonderful Works
¹ Praise the Lord!
I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart,
    in the company of the upright, in the congregation.
² Great are the works of the Lord,
    studied by all who delight in them.
³ Full of honor and majesty is his work,
    and his righteousness endures forever.
⁴ He has gained renown by his wonderful deeds;
    the Lord is gracious and merciful.
⁵ He provides food for those who fear him;
    he is ever mindful of his covenant.
⁶ He has shown his people the power of his works,
    in giving them the heritage of the nations.

Detailed Exegesis

Verse 1: “Praise the Lord! I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart, in the company of the upright, in the congregation.”
The psalmist begins with a personal vow to give thanks to God “with my whole heart”, emphasizing a total and sincere commitment to worship. This praise is not a private matter but is offered “in the company of the upright, in the congregation.” The communal aspect of worship is crucial, as it reflects the biblical idea that we are called to worship God together as His people. This reminds us of the importance of attending Mass and engaging in communal worship.

Verse 2: “Great are the works of the Lord, studied by all who delight in them.”
This verse highlights the grandeur of God’s works, which include not only creation but also His acts of salvation throughout history. The psalmist invites us to meditate on these works, to “study” them, implying that we should continually seek to understand and appreciate the depth of what God has done. This is an invitation to deepen our knowledge of Scripture and Church teaching, as they reveal the greatness of God’s works.

Verse 3: “Full of honor and majesty is his work, and his righteousness endures forever.”
The psalmist points out that God’s works are not only great but also majestic and honorable. His righteousness is everlasting, unlike human achievements, which are fleeting. This reminds us that God’s goodness and justice are eternal, offering us a firm foundation for our faith and trust in Him.

Verse 4: “He has gained renown by his wonderful deeds; the Lord is gracious and merciful.”
God’s reputation, or “renown,” comes from the mighty works He has done, particularly His acts of mercy and grace toward His people. The psalmist underscores God’s graciousness and mercy—qualities that are central to His relationship with us. This verse invites us to reflect on God’s saving actions throughout history, from the Exodus to the ultimate act of mercy in Christ’s sacrifice on the cross.

Verse 5: “He provides food for those who fear him; he is ever mindful of his covenant.”
This verse can be understood both literally and spiritually. God provided manna for the Israelites in the desert, and today He provides for our physical needs. But more profoundly, this verse points to the Eucharist, where God provides spiritual nourishment. The psalmist also reminds us that God is always faithful to His covenant. Even when we are unfaithful, God remembers His promises and remains steadfast in His love for us.

Verse 6: “He has shown his people the power of his works, in giving them the heritage of the nations.”
The “heritage of the nations” likely refers to the Promised Land that God gave to the Israelites. But this verse also has a broader meaning for Christians: the heritage we receive is not just a physical land but the spiritual inheritance of eternal life with God. Through Christ, we are given the “heritage” of being children of God, co-heirs with Christ (Romans 8:17).

Teachings and References

This psalm resonates deeply with the Church’s teaching on God’s providence and His faithfulness to His covenant. The Catechism reminds us that “God’s works are perfect” and that He provides for all of our needs, both physical and spiritual (CCC 302-305). The Eucharist is the greatest expression of God’s providential care, as it is the ongoing sign of His covenant with us. Every time we participate in the Mass, we partake in the “food” God provides, just as He provided manna in the desert.

Reflection

Psalm 111 invites us to marvel at God’s works and to praise Him with our whole heart. In our busy lives, it’s easy to overlook the everyday blessings that God provides—both the physical blessings of food, shelter, and health, and the spiritual blessings of His grace, mercy, and love. Take some time today to reflect on the ways God has been faithful in your life. What are the “wondrous works” God has done for you? How can you incorporate more gratitude and praise into your daily routine?

Holy Gospel – Luke 11:15-26

The Kingdom of God vs. The Powers of Darkness

In this Gospel passage, we find Jesus in the midst of His public ministry, performing miracles and casting out demons. His actions, however, provoke skepticism and even hostility from some of the people around Him. Jesus is accused of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebul, the prince of demons, and others demand a sign from heaven to prove His authority. In response, Jesus speaks about the nature of spiritual warfare, the importance of unity in God’s Kingdom, and the dangers of spiritual complacency.

This passage offers a profound reflection on the reality of evil and the necessity of remaining vigilant in our spiritual lives. Jesus’ words remind us that there is no neutral ground in the battle between good and evil—if we are not actively working with Christ, we are in danger of falling prey to the powers of darkness.

Luke 11:15-26
New Revised Standard Version Catholic Edition

¹⁵ But some of them said, “He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the ruler of the demons.” ¹⁶ Others, to test him, kept demanding from him a sign from heaven. ¹⁷ But he knew what they were thinking and said to them, “Every kingdom divided against itself becomes a desert, and house falls on house. ¹⁸ If Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand? —for you say that I cast out the demons by Beelzebul. ¹⁹ Now if I cast out the demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your exorcists cast them out? Therefore they will be your judges. ²⁰ But if it is by the finger of God that I cast out the demons, then the kingdom of God has come to you. ²¹ When a strong man, fully armed, guards his castle, his property is safe. ²² But when one stronger than he attacks him and overpowers him, he takes away his armor in which he trusted and divides his plunder. ²³ Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.

The Return of the Unclean Spirit
²⁴ “When the unclean spirit has gone out of a person, it wanders through waterless regions looking for a resting place, but not finding any, it says, ‘I will return to my house from which I came.’ ²⁵ When it comes, it finds it swept and put in order. ²⁶ Then it goes and brings seven other spirits more evil than itself, and they enter and live there; and the last state of that person is worse than the first.”

Detailed Exegesis

Verse 15: “But some of them said, ‘He casts out demons by Beelzebul, the ruler of the demons.’”
The accusation that Jesus casts out demons by the power of Beelzebul (a name associated with Satan) reveals the hardness of the people’s hearts. Instead of recognizing the divine authority behind Jesus’ miracles, they attribute His power to the prince of demons. This reflects a broader pattern of resistance to Jesus throughout His ministry, as those who opposed Him often sought to discredit His authority.

Verse 16: “Others, to test him, kept demanding from him a sign from heaven.”
While some accused Jesus of working with demons, others demanded more proof of His divine power. Despite having already witnessed many miracles, they insisted on further signs. This reflects a common human tendency to seek constant reassurance and proof, even when the evidence is already clear. Jesus’ opponents were not interested in genuine faith; they were testing Him, revealing their lack of trust.

Verse 17: “But he knew what they were thinking and said to them, ‘Every kingdom divided against itself becomes a desert, and house falls on house.’”
Jesus responds to the accusation by pointing out the illogical nature of their argument. If Satan’s kingdom were divided against itself, it would collapse. This analogy of a divided kingdom highlights the importance of unity, both in the spiritual realm and in our own lives. Division and discord weaken any system, be it a kingdom, a household, or a person’s heart.

Verse 18: “If Satan also is divided against himself, how will his kingdom stand?—for you say that I cast out the demons by Beelzebul.”
Jesus continues to dismantle their accusation, showing that it makes no sense for Satan to fight against himself. His casting out of demons is not a work of Satan but a sign that the Kingdom of God is at hand.

Verse 19: “Now if I cast out the demons by Beelzebul, by whom do your exorcists cast them out? Therefore they will be your judges.”
Jesus turns the accusation back on His opponents by questioning their own exorcists. Jewish exorcists also cast out demons, so if Jesus’ power came from Satan, what does that say about their own exorcisms? This rhetorical question leaves His accusers without a defense.

Verse 20: “But if it is by the finger of God that I cast out the demons, then the kingdom of God has come to you.”
Jesus asserts that His power comes directly from God. The “finger of God” is a reference to God’s mighty power, as seen in Exodus 8:19 during the plagues in Egypt. Jesus is not just a healer or a miracle worker; He is the very presence of God’s Kingdom on earth. His exorcisms are signs that the Kingdom of God has broken into the world, overpowering the forces of evil.

Verse 21: “When a strong man, fully armed, guards his castle, his property is safe.”
In this analogy, the “strong man” represents Satan, who guards his kingdom and keeps his captives secure. As long as no one stronger comes along, his dominion is unchallenged.

Verse 22: “But when one stronger than he attacks him and overpowers him, he takes away his armor in which he trusted and divides his plunder.”
Jesus, the stronger man, has come to overpower Satan. By defeating Satan, Jesus takes away his power (“armor”) and liberates those who were under his control. This victory is a foreshadowing of Jesus’ ultimate triumph over sin and death through His crucifixion and resurrection.

Verse 23: “Whoever is not with me is against me, and whoever does not gather with me scatters.”
Jesus makes it clear that there is no neutral ground in the spiritual battle. You are either with Him, working for the Kingdom, or you are against Him. This verse challenges us to examine where we stand—are we actively working with Christ, or are we passively allowing ourselves to be swept away by the forces of darkness?

Verses 24-26: “When the unclean spirit has gone out of a person… the last state of that person is worse than the first.”
In this warning, Jesus describes what happens when an unclean spirit is cast out of a person but nothing new is put in its place. The house (the person’s soul) is left “swept and put in order,” but empty, leaving room for even more evil spirits to come and take residence. This illustrates the importance of not only casting out sin but also filling our lives with the Holy Spirit. Spiritual complacency leaves us vulnerable to falling back into sin, sometimes even worse than before.

Teachings and References

The Church teaches that spiritual warfare is a reality for every Christian. The Catechism emphasizes that Christ’s victory over Satan was won definitively through His death and resurrection, but the battle against evil continues until the end of time (CCC 2853). We are called to remain vigilant, actively participating in this spiritual battle through prayer, the sacraments, and a life of virtue. The Catechism also warns against spiritual complacency, noting that the devil “prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour” (CCC 2851, 1 Peter 5:8). We must actively seek to fill our lives with the Holy Spirit, lest we fall back into sin.

Reflection

Jesus’ warning about the unclean spirit returning to an empty house is a sobering reminder that we cannot afford to be passive in our spiritual lives. It’s not enough to simply rid ourselves of sin; we must also invite God into every area of our lives. Are there places in your life that are “swept clean” but still empty? How can you invite the Holy Spirit to fill those spaces with His presence, so that there is no room for sin to return? Consider making more time for prayer, Scripture reading, and receiving the sacraments to strengthen your relationship with Christ.

Faith, Praise, and Vigilance

Today’s readings offer us a roadmap for living out our faith in practical ways. St. Paul’s passionate message to the Galatians reminds us that salvation is a gift of grace, received through faith, not something we can earn by our own efforts. This liberating truth invites us to trust more deeply in God’s mercy and to live in the freedom that comes with knowing we are loved unconditionally. The Psalmist, in turn, calls us to lift our hearts in praise and gratitude for God’s mighty works. Whether it’s the beauty of creation, the blessings in our lives, or the Eucharist we receive at Mass, we are surrounded by reminders of God’s faithfulness. Finally, Jesus’ words in the Gospel urge us to stay vigilant in our spiritual lives. The battle between good and evil is real, and we cannot afford to be complacent. We must actively choose to follow Christ, fill our lives with the Holy Spirit, and resist the forces that seek to lead us astray.

As we go forth, let us commit ourselves to living by faith, praising God for His blessings, and staying vigilant in the face of spiritual challenges. May we trust in God’s grace to guide us, knowing that He is always faithful and ever-present in our journey.

Engage with Us!

What spoke to your heart in today’s readings? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Reflection Questions

• In what areas of your life are you trying to rely on your own works rather than trusting in God’s grace?
• How can you actively praise God for His wonderful works in your daily life?
• Are there areas in your spiritual life that need more vigilance? How can you invite the Holy Spirit to fill those spaces?

Let’s grow in faith together.

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