LOOK “ON THE FAITH OF YOUR CHURCH”

“The words, ‘It was credited to him,’ were not written with him alone in view; they were intended for us too. For our faith will be credited to us also if we believe in Him Who raised Jesus our Lord from the dead.” –Romans 4:23-24

God promised Abraham that He would remove the supposed curse of childlessness and make him the father of many nations. Although Abraham was nearing one hundred years old without these promises fulfilled (Rm 4:19), “he never questioned or doubted God’s promise; rather, he was strengthened in faith and gave glory to God, fully persuaded that God could do whatever He had promised” (Rm 4:20-21).

Are you fully convinced of God’s promise to provide for your financial future through your faith expressed in tithing and almsgiving? (see Lk 12:16ff) Are you fully convinced that the Lord will plan your family without you taking matters into your hands through contraception? Are you fully convinced that all your decisions in life should be made so as to inherit God’s promise of eternal life with Him in heaven?

We are saved by grace through faith (Eph 2:8). Jesus repeatedly said: “Your faith has been your salvation” (e.g. Lk 17:19). It is impossible to please God without faith (Heb 11:6), and the purpose of life is to please God. Before receiving Holy Communion at Mass, the Church prays for the Lord to look at our faith. We are the people of faith.

In Christ, you are greater than Abraham (see Mt 11:11). Have a faith greater than Abraham’s. “Walk by faith” (2 Cor 5:7).

PRAYER: Father, may our culture not limit my faith, but my faith transform our culture.

PROMISE: “Avoid greed in all its forms. A man may be wealthy, but his possessions do not guarantee him life.” –Lk 12:15

PRAISE: St. Isaac Jogues returned repeatedly to those who tortured him to once again spread the love of God to them.