See what large letters I make when I am writing in my own hand! It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh that try to compel you to be circumcised—only that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ. Even the circumcised do not themselves obey the law, but they want you to be circumcised so that they may boast about your flesh. May I never boast of anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world. For neither circumcision nor uncircumcision is anything; but a new creation is everything! (Galatians 6:11-15)

Circumcision was intended to symbolize the relationship between God and his people.

Instead it had too often become a source of spiritual pride and racial separation.

The law was intended to show the way to God.

Instead it had too often become a distraction of ritual and regulation.

So often - and easily - I can pervert God's gifts to my own narrow purpose.

The distinctions that seem so important - circumcision or uncircumcision - are distractions.

All that truly matters is to accept and abide within the new creation.

Three closing verses remain. I will be offline until May 29. When I return a review and some final thoughts on Paul and his letter to the Galatians.