Love as the Heart of the Commandments

Walk in Confidence
Reflection Date: 11 June 2025
Author: Fr Ignatius Britto, SJ
Daily Reading: Acts 11:21b-26; 13:1-3     Mathew 5: 17-19

In the first reading, Paul contrasts the old covenant, written on stone, with the new covenant, written by the Holy Spirit in our hearts. The law brought death, but the Spirit brings life, transforming our hearts from within. Paul goes on to affirm that the glory of Christ’s covenant is greater and eternal.

At this juncture, it is fitting to ask ourselves: Are we living under the weight of legalism, or are we walking in the freedom and life of the Spirit? Knowing that our effectiveness comes from God, let us walk in confidence, like the Apostle Barnabas, whose feast we celebrate today. His unwavering faith led him to partner with Paul in mission and ultimately face martyrdom by stoning.

In the Gospel, Jesus clarifies that His mission is not to discard the law but to bring it to fulfillment. This fulfillment means perfecting the law, not merely through external observances, but by living its spirit with love and justice. Jesus challenges us to go beyond the letter of the law and embrace its deeper meaning through a relationship with Him.

Call to Action:

• Open your hearts to the transforming work of the Spirit, which enables you to reflect the freedom of the children of God.
• Embrace grace over legalism to live in the fullness of God.