What the Law Requires is Written on their Hearts

This meditation is based on a passage for June 17, 2010 in the Daily Lectionary Year 2 from the Book of Common Worship for the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (1993).

Text: Romans 2:12-24

Reflection and Question: On his way to establishing that righteousness is through faith, Paul hammers home that Jews are in no position to condemn anyone. When Paul asserts, concerning the Gentiles, “that what the law requires is written on their hearts,” he reminds his Jewish listeners of the same claim for Jews in Ezekiel (36:26, for example), erasing any distinction between people. In our time, Paul’s indictment hits home: among the many distinctions we would set up among our neighbors, it is a good reminder that we are never in a position to condemn anyone else. When we judge others, we blaspheme the name of God. When is the law of God written on your heart?

Prayer: Great God, we tremble at Paul’s reminder that it is the doers of the law that will be justified. We trust, whether Jew or Gentile, gay or straight, that You know the secret thoughts of us all. As You judge us all, have mercy, dear God. Amen.