Sixth Sunday after Trinity

The homily emphasizes that Christians should not separate themselves from the Old Testament, because Christ did not come to destroy the law but to fulfill it. It explains the traditional distinction between the Old Testament’s ceremonial, civil, and moral laws, noting that while the ceremonial and civil laws are no longer binding on Christians, the moral law continues to express God’s will. Jesus deepens the meaning of the law by teaching that righteousness is not merely outward obedience; even anger, hatred, and contempt toward others violate the spirit of God’s commandments. This reveals our own sinfulness and shows us that we cannot rely on self-righteousness, but must seek God’s mercy and grace through Christ. As St. Augustine summarized, “The law was given that grace might be sought; grace was given in order that the law might be fulfilled.” Through the Holy Spirit, Christians are enabled to receive God’s grace and grow in obedience, so the proper response to the law is neither to reject it nor to boast in our ability to keep it, but to recognize our need for Christ and seek to live faithfully according to God’s will.