SAINT CYRIL OF JERUSALEM, BISHOP AND DOCTOR OF THE CHURCH (OPTIONAL MEMORIAL)

I have come not to abolish but to fulfill

So just how does Jesus fulfill the Law of the Old Testament?   Today’s first reading gives us a clue. Moses reminds the Israelites that even though the Law blesses them with God’s wisdom, what really sets them apart is how close God is to them:   “What great nation is there that has gods so close to it as the Lord, our God, is to us?” (Deuteronomy 4:7).   That closeness is the key.   Yes, God wants his people to know his thoughts; but even more, he wants them to know his heart.

In Jesus, God has come even closer to us.   By showing us, up close, what loving God and our neighbor looks like, Jesus reveals the heart of the Law and perfectly fulfills it.   Here are some examples:

• Keep holy the Sabbath.   Jesus does this, not by scrupulously avoiding work, but by praying and reaching out to the needy with the healing compassion of God.   He even invites synagogue leaders to reflect on the real meaning of this commandment:   “Is it lawful to do good on the sabbath rather than to do evil, to save life rather than to destroy it?” (Luke 6:9).

• Do not bear false witness.   Of course, Jesus never breaks that law, but he goes even further than just not lying about another person.   He notices and praises the kernel of righteousness he sees in them.   The first time he meets Nathanael, for instance, he declares, “Here is a true Israelite.   There is no duplicity in him” (John 1:47).   No wonder Nathanael becomes a disciple!

• Do not kill.   Especially during his passion, we see Jesus fulfilling this law.   Not only does he not strike back at those abusing him, but he forgives them (Luke 23:34).   He does not argue or defend himself against accusations but keeps silent.   He pours his life out in love even for those who condemn him.

Jesus shows us that the heart of the Law is loving God and our neighbor.   He shows us that true obedience goes beyond a matter of “thou shalt not.”   He comes close to each of us to show us what it looks like.   That’s how he came to fulfill the Law.

“Jesus, thank you for patiently teaching me how to love.”

Deuteronomy 4:1, 5-9
Psalm 147:12-13, 15-16, 19-20