Fulfill the Law

Jesus said, “Do not think that I have come to abolish the law or the prophets; I have come not to abolish but to fulfill. For truly I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not one letter, not one stroke of a letter, will pass from the law until all is accomplished. Therefore, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches others to do the same, will be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does them and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven. For I tell you, unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” Matthew 5:17-20

Fulfill the Law

We wiggle out of all constraints
and think ourselves forgiven
yet walk past the beggars needing bread
and do not stoop to help another.

Can we really believe that God is with us
when we tease and torture our classmates?
Is not love the ground over every law
and compassion the rule of Christ?

We feel sorry when we are poorly
yet run from others in our place
we teach our children independence
and fiercely protect our property.

God has made us more than property
a little lower than the angels
we are commanded to love one another
and to live with mercy overflowing.

May we fill the cups to running over
for the poor, the outcast and the needy
may we welcome to the highest seat
the humblest in our midst.

May the Creator find us living
the true laws of love that generate
abundant life for all and make room
for those who are struggling on the road.