
Morning Evening
Galatians 5:25–6:10
In these verses Paul makes a compelling case for pursuing the common good. He encourages his readers not to “compete against one another”. Instead, he says “… whenever we have an opportunity, let us work for the good of all.” It could be argued that the increasing emphasis which has been placed in recent years on “individual rights” has led to the undermining of the common good. In a successful community both of these need to be balanced. Societies flourish when these things are successfully held in tension.
The pandemic has reminded us of the need to pursue the common good. It may be my “right” to choose not to wear a mask, but science encourages us to wear masks to slow the spread of the virus, which is better for society at large. Let’s pray our new “normal” is more balanced, with a greater desire to pursue the good of all, not just the few.
Mark