Saint Denis, Bishop, and Companions, Martyrs (Opt. Memorial)

They recognized the grace bestowed upon me. 

Relationships are tricky. They can bring us so much love and joy, but they also challenge us—especially when we don’t see things eye-to-eye.

In today’s first reading, St. Paul is addressing this dynamic among the Galatians. They were arguing over whether the Gentiles among them needed to accept circumcision and observe the Mosaic law. In response, Paul reminds them of the Council of Jerusalem, when he and Barnabas met with James, John, and Peter to discern the same question (Galatians 2:9).

The dispute had threatened to tear apart the young Church, but as the apostles listened to Paul, they “recognized the grace bestowed upon [him]” (Galatians 2:9). They could see the Spirit working powerfully through Paul’s ministry to the Gentiles. Even more, they agreed that every believer, Jew or Gentile, was saved by the grace of God. In the end, they did not require Gentiles to be circumcised (Acts 15:7-11).

Paul wanted the Jewish believers in Galatia to recognize the same grace of God in the lives of their Gentile brothers and sisters and vice versa. He pleaded with them to see each other as members of one family (Galatians 6:10). But it wasn’t easy for them—and it isn’t easy for us. It’s hard to let go of our opinions, and that can strain our relationships. But Jesus can help us recognize his grace at work in another person, and that can strengthen bonds of love.

So how does this happen? A good first step is to recognize and let go of any negative biases you may have. By the Spirit, you can see positive qualities in other people and take a generous outlook toward them.

Second, you can put on humility. When you remember that God has shown you mercy, you view people more mercifully and recognize God’s grace at work in them. You see the patience a father shows his children or a coworker’s diligence at the office. You notice the quiet faith of a Mass-goer who lingers to pray, or you rejoice when you see someone extend a hand to a gruff neighbor. And this can move you to do the same.

Today, let the Spirit help you to appreciate God’s grace in the whole family of God.

“Lord, I want to see my brothers and sisters as you do!”

Galatians 2:1-2, 7-14
Psalm 117:1-2
Luke 11:1-4