So, we have a problem. We are human beings. Humans like to live like humans. Humans have desires, hopes, and dreams. Humans live by the flesh. In other words, what feels good is what humans are most likely to do.  Humans don’t want to be pain or suffer.  Humans want to live a life of having things that they want, need, and hope for.  It’s who we are! Therefore, it takes work, effort, and discipline to turn away from our human desires. To live a life in Christ is the opposite of living a life as a human.

In Galatians 5:13-25, St. Paul reminds us about who we are as humans.  If we choose to live as a human, it may look like this – “fornication, idolatry, anger, jealousy, quarrels envy, drunkenness” (v.21).  But, to live like Christ, looks like this – “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, gentleness, and self-control” (v.22).  To live a life of Christ means that we sometimes have to take a step back before we speak.  It means that we must know Jesus Christ and how Jesus would handle certain situations.  It means that we have to turn away from our human desires and turn towards God.

Let us pray, Gracious God, help us to turn to you in difficult situations and when we tend to act in a human way and not a Christ-like way.  Send your Holy Spirit to us and fill us with your grace and love.  In your name we pray. Amen.