“For the real Jew is not merely Jewish outwardly: true circumcision is not only external and physical. On the contrary, the real Jew is one inwardly; and true circumcision is of the heart, spiritual not literal; so that his praise comes not from other people but from God” (Rom. 2:28-29 CJSB).
Paul speaks of a faith that reaches below the flesh into the center of all compassion, the heart. The beauty of his theology lays the way for both Jew and Gentile to be brothers and sisters, working side-by-side for the glory of the Most-High God. According to Paul, one must press beneath the surface and discover the beauty of a complete surrendering to the Father. We must be made anew. This transformation of faith requires a commitment, a total dedication of the whole body, but most of all, the heart.
At the same time, Paul describes a new way of looking at an old tradition. Two things suggest a unique approach to both Jew and Gentile. To the Jew, he reminds us to observe the traditions which prove essential to the ancient faith. Circumcise your young, but let God’s unlimited grace lead you to the One whom you worship. Gentiles, while not under the law, should focus on a life that calls for observance by a change of life, a circumcision of the heart, a commitment to serve our God faithfully, and wholly.
Praise be to God for the amazing grace that continues to lead us into everlasting glory! We all bow at the feet of the Messiah, longing to be in fellowship with Him. The law and doing works gets us on the right path, but it is the free gift of grace, which is offered by the Divine Giver of Life, that restores our souls and renews our spirits. May we live as faithful servants, always searching for God’s gracious love.
From a Pastor's Point of View 