Romans 3:21-30/Psalm 130/Luke 11:47-54
“A man is justified by faith apart from works of law.” This assertion of St. Paul in the first reading has been misconstrued overtime. For many believers it means that faith alone can save us, works are not necessary. But the Church teaches that faith alone cannot save us we also need hope and charity. Charity is good works. James 2:24 sums this better when he says that “a person is justified by works and not by faith alone.” Therefore, justification is by both faith and works. Precisely because of this Jesus rebuked the officials for their hypocrisy in the gospel reading. They were religious people yet had no good deeds. Their deeds prevented the people from having closer union with God. Let us put aside any pharisaic behavior that will alter our union with Jesus.
LET US PRAY
Father, we thank you for the many blessings we have received. We ask for strength to work and not be weary. Bless the works of our hands and fill us with wisdom to know the truth of the gospel and come to salvation. Amen!
