The author of the letter to the Galatians (attributed to St. Paul) has some harsh words for those who have gotten in the way of those he addresses in the letter in their pursuit of obeying the truth.

Verse 12 would make a pretty nasty tweet in our day, wouldn’t it?

Who or what derails your efforts in seeking the truth of God’s love and forgiveness? Is it doubt? Is it troubles that arise that just don’t seem fair? Is it the friend or family member who mocks you for trying to run the race well? What might it be?

And while you might want to fire off a “verse 12” text or email their way, will that solve the problem?

How much of that is our doing, or undoing?

I know that sometimes I need to be reminded again of who I am and whose I am.

I stood before the congregation for a meet and greet session – this was some 25 years ago. With those gathered, I had an opportunity to share some about my family, my upbringing, my education, my wife and children, and some of the things I had done in my ministry to date.

About 40 minutes into the event, a woman of the congregation raised her hand to ask a question. She said, “Do you believe Jesus Christ is your Lord and Savior?”

I wanted to answer, “What does it look like? Why else would I be here? Why else would I give up weekends with family to be in church every Sunday by 7 a.m.? Haven’t you been listening?”

Galatians 5:7-12