An ABC of Faith

Jot

In Matthew’ gospel we find Jesus using the phrase 'jot or tittle'. Both jot and tittle refer to tiny quantities. A modern rendering of Jesus words could be “For most certainly, I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not even one smallest letter or one tiny pen stroke shall in any way pass away from the law, until all things are accomplished.”

The reference to jot and tittle resonates with the english language saying, “to dot the i's and cross the t's”. This in turn is defined as to pay a great deal of attention to the details of something, especially when you are trying to complete a task. Jesus life was all about living, acting and teaching in such a way that the words of the scriptures came to life. Perhaps we should think of how the scriptures come to life in us by what we do and what we say.  

We could think of all those who have taught us, and calling to mind the people who have helped us to understand God’s ways. Through such recollection we can give thanks for them and ask for blessing. In turn we to can then pray that we may be such a person for those around is.

Jesus pointed to the continuity in God’s work and action.  Think of the traditions and teachings that have brought us to where we are and ask God to continue to draw us to life.

Jesus saw a continuity of God's message as he spoke as had the prophets of old. Perhaps we should realise that we too have a history and tradition - some of which are known to us and we thank God for all of those whose insight builds us up.

In doing this may we be led to ask God to continue to bless is and to lead is into the wisdom that Jesus had. Then through prayerfully respect for all who teach the faith that has come to us from the apostles.

The law of God is truth and when we live according to that truth it produces the fruits of righteousness, holiness, peace, and joy.  Jesus taught reverence for God’s law — reverence for God himself, for the Lord’s Day, reverence or respect for parents, respect for life, for property, for another person’s good name, respect for oneself and for one’s neighbour lest wrong or hurtful desires master us.  Reverence and respect for God’s commandments teach us the way of love -- love of God and love of neighbour.  What is impossible to men is possible to God and those who have faith in God.  God gives us the grace to love as he loves, to forgive as he forgives, to think as he thinks, and to act as he acts.  The Lord loves righteousness and hates wickedness.  As his followers we must love his commandments and hate every form of sin. Do you love the commands of the Lord.

“Lord Jesus, grant this day, to direct and sanctify, to rule and govern our hearts and bodies, so that all our thoughts, words and deeds may be according to your Father’s law and thus may we be saved and protected through your mighty help.”