Our Venerable Father Nicetas, Bishop of Chalcedon (716-40).
Apostles’ Fast.
Romans 4:4-12. Matthew 7:15-21.
Read Romans 4:4-12
St. Paul addresses the early Jewish Christians in Rome, who were grappling with the influx of Gentile converts. Many Jewish Christians believed that justification before God required adherence to the Mosaic Law, specifically circumcision. This insistence created a significant barrier for Gentile converts, who were expected to undergo circumcision to be considered part of the faith community.
St. Paul presents a transformative understanding of justification, one that transcends the ritual of circumcision. He points to the example of Abraham, the father of faith. Abraham was justified by God not because of his circumcision, but because of his faith. This justification by faith occurred before he was circumcised, highlighting that the external rite was a sign of an already existing internal reality.
By emphasizing Abraham’s faith, St. Paul teaches that true justification comes through faith, not through works of the law. This message was revolutionary for the early Church, as it opened the path of salvation to all, regardless of their adherence to Jewish customs. Faith in God’s promises, like Abraham’s faith, is what makes us righteous before God.
In our Ukrainian Catholic community, we can sometimes face similar tensions. Many of us who were born into this tradition may feel a sense of exclusivity, rooted in our rich cultural and liturgical heritage. Meanwhile, there are many converts who find profound meaning and spiritual fulfillment in immersing themselves in our ancient traditions.
St. Paul’s teaching encourages us to look beyond external rituals and focus on the transformative power of faith. Our actions and rituals should be expressions of an inward faith and trust in God’s grace, not mere formalities that we rely on for justification. This understanding fosters a more inclusive and welcoming community, where faith is the common ground for all believers.
As we reflect on this passage, let us remember that our relationship with God is built on faith. Like Abraham, we are called to trust in God’s promises and let our faith be the foundation of our lives. May we live out this faith in our actions, allowing it to be the guiding principle that shapes our journey with Christ.
Let us also embrace the diversity within our faith community, recognizing that we are all justified by the same faith, regardless of our backgrounds. By welcoming converts and appreciating the spiritual richness they bring, we can strengthen our unity and witness to the world the beauty of our shared faith.