22nd Sunday after Pentecost
Gal 6: 11-18

A reading - from the Letter of Saint Paul the Apostle to the Galatians

See, I write to you in my own large handwriting! Those who are trying to force you to be circumcised are making a play for human approval - with an eye to escaping persecution for the cross | of | Christ.

The very ones who accept circumcision do not follow the law | them|selves.

They want you to be circumcised only that they may boast about your bodily observance. May I never boast of anything but the cross of our Lord Je|sus | Christ!

Through it, the world has been crucified to me and I to the world. It means nothing whether one is circumcised | or | not.

All that matters is that one is created anew. Peace and mercy on all who follow this rule of life, and on the Israel of God. Henceforth, let no men trouble me for I bear the brand marks of Jesus in | my | body.

Brethren, May the favor of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your - spirit. - Amen.