Still keeping the covenant

Mass Readings: March 13

First:	Genesis 17:3-9
Resp:	Psalm 105:4-9
Gospel:	John 8:51-59

Genesis 17:9 God also said to Abraham: "On your part, you and your descendants after you must keep my covenant throughout the ages.

God has made a promise to Abraham and through him to all mankind. But, God expects us to "keep" His covenant. What does that mean?
In the very next verse God explains to Abraham that circumcision is the sign of the covenant that he is to keep. Later Paul tells us that the sign changes into the form of baptism. But Paul also makes it quite clear that true circumcision is of the heart. If we don't obey God's law and we don't love Him and our neighbour, then as Paul says our circumcision is useless. It is a sign of God's promise and His grace, but it is also a sign of our repentance and humility.
So today we are still living out the covenant that God made to Abraham when we remain faithful in our baptism. Not only a one time washing event, but day to day living out our faith.

Father, help me by your Holy Spirit to always remember your covenant. Not only your promises, but also to trust in you so that I am able to be obedient to your laws of mercy, love and grace.

Amen