May God’s mercy and peace be upon all those who live by this principle. They are the new people of God. (Galatians 6:16 NLT)
The blood of animals sacrificed by the priests did not have the power to blot out the sins of the people. These were done yearly under the Mosaic Law. Jesus’ blood was shed on the cross just once and it cleansed and forgave our sins. Jesus saves. His blood redeems those who believe. The shedding of the blood confirmed the covenant of love between Him and His Church. The Church became Jesus’ betrothed wife. Those covered by His blood are called and baptized in the Church. They are given the promise of salvation and spiritual blessings. As a covenant partner, we swore to love Him more than anyone and anything in the world. We promised to be faithful to Him, honor Him and submit ourselves to His will. As part of the Church, we also promised to love one another as spiritual brothers and sisters. We are blood brothers and sisters through the blood of Christ, more than the flesh and human blood relationship. As children of God, we are to love our neighbors as we love ourselves. We have to love even our enemies. It is the principle of Love that we should live by. If we do, grace and mercy of God will flow abundantly in our lives. Peace, joy and happiness will characterize our lives as children of God.
