"Before faith came we were under the constraint of the law, locked in" (Gal 3:23). In addition to being set free in Jesus, we received justification through faith (Gal 3:24). Third, we became sons and daughters of God because of our faith in Christ Jesus (Gal 3:26). By living our Baptisms through faith, we become clothed with Jesus (Gal 3:27). We look and act like Jesus. We become holy in every aspect of our conduct (1 Pt 1:15). Because we look like Jesus, we look like others who look like Jesus. We "are one in Christ" (Gal 3:28). Furthermore, by faith we "inherit all that was promised" (Gal 3:29; see also Heb 11:33). The life of faith (Gal 2:20) is a life of freedom, justification, holiness, and unity. By grace through faith (Eph 2:8), we live as children of God and heirs of God's kingdom.

Therefore, pray:

• "Increase our faith" (Lk 17:5).
• "I do believe! Help my lack of faith!" (Mk 9:24, our transl.)
• "Fear is useless. Only believe" (Mk 5:36, our transl.).

Therefore, meditate day and night on God's word (Ps 1:2), for faith comes through hearing and hearing by God's word (Rm 10:17, our transl.).

"When the Son of Man comes, will He find any faith on the earth?" (Lk 18:8)

Nihil Obstat:  Reverend Ralph J. Lawrence, April 2, 1996

Imprimatur:  †Most Reverend Carl K. Moeddel, Vicar General and Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, April 3, 1996