From a worldly point view laws and commandments restrict our actions to a certain degree. Whenever we hear the word ‘Laws’, there is an involuntary cringe within our hearts, a groan and a sense of dissatisfaction. We may feel trapped, obliged, and forced. On the contrary, God’s law is one that is of love that leads us to true freedom, because His Law is not enforced on us.

It is given to us with an assurance of His close presence as we strive to keep in His ways, guiding us and carrying us; ‘And indeed, what great nation is there that has its gods so near as the Lord our God is to us whenever we call to him?’

We only need to look to our God and simply live in the awareness of His presence within us if we are to keep His Laws. The task at hand becomes all the more easier, as the perfector of the law is already being revealed to us. Our Lord Jesus lived His entire earthly life, demonstrating this Law of Love. He was so close to the brokenhearted, sinners and the needy. Our Lord was quick to forgive those who mistreated Him. His acts of love and mercy can go on with no end. This is the height of the fulfilment of God’s Law that is given to us this day. We who yearn to follow His ways and are already headed the right way are truly blessed just as our Lord’s own words confirm, ‘the man who keeps these commandments and teaches them will be considered great in the kingdom of heaven.’

Therefore today, in a special way as we read through the scriptures and sit in prayerful reflection, we are invited to look into our own ways, thoughts and actions. Are they driven by love or by self-interest? Do they reflect gestures of love and compassion towards our neighbour instead of criticism and contempt? Can we truly love our neighbour more than we love ourselves? If our lives are an imitation of Christ’s love, we indeed are immensely blessed, but if we are still struggling and caught up with our own selves, there is still cause for joy. For the mere desire we have to live in His ways is a sure sign of the work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. He will enable us to rise beyond our being, as we willingly submit to His leading.

Prayer: Abba Father, we bring to You our yearning hearts, so that You may fulfil the desires of our hearts to walk in Your ways. Amen.