In the first reading, Paul was talking to the Galatian Christians with his characteristic rigour and severity. The early converts were hard pressed by the Jews who tried to impose Jewish traditions on them. But Paul was adamant that Christians live by faith, not by law.

Faith is a gift from God. The Holy Spirit works among the faithful. Faith gives rise to Hope. With hope we Christians look at the world differently from others. While we are aware of and are affected by the chaos, messiness and confusion of the world, we have hope that all will be well, because the Lord has promised so. With the grace of God we live a life that has a future - we work for the Kingdom of God.

The Holy Spirit helps us to reflect on life, to examine our conscience, and to discern what is of God and what is not. The Holy Spirit draws us closer to God and we become more compassionate, loving and forgiving.

Indeed, mere human law can never match the working of God.