St. Paul reminds us that the Christian life is a life guided by the Holy Spirit. When the Spirit truly lives within us, His presence becomes visible through love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. In the Gospel reading, Jesus challenges those who carefully observe religious practices while neglecting justice and the love of God. It is possible to appear deeply religious while failing to reflect God’s love in our daily lives. Our prayers, devotions and religious practices must lead us towards greater love, compassion and concern for others. The question we need to ask ourselves is: What kind of fruit is my faith producing? If we are truly walking with Christ, His Spirit should gradually transform our attitudes, words and actions. Let us surrender ourselves to the Holy Spirit and allow Him to remove whatever is contrary to God’s will, so that our lives may bear abundant fruit for His glory.

PRAYER: Abba Father, help us to live in the Spirit, and to follow the Spirit. Amen.