“The death [Jesus] died, he died to sin once for all (cf. Colossians 2:15). Thus, if our bodies are the members of Christ, then our flesh is the flesh of Christ. And while we are on earth we crucify it and through it we put to death impurity, lust, evil desire, and avarice…But it takes no small effort to live in the present age in such a way that the life of Jesus is revealed in our flesh right now, for our mortal bodies will accordingly be made alive through the Spirit who dwells within us.”
St. Jerome (347-420) or “Dr. Jerome” as I like to refer to him because he was likely the most learned of the Four Doctors of the Western Church, in his Commentary on Galatians (Washington, DC: CUA, 2010) 241.
Jerome makes the profound point that we don’t just “put off” or “put away” sins like avarice, which is the opposite of generosity, we “put to death” avarice! As you reflect on the cross today, “put to death” impurity, lust, evil desire, avarice, and other sins which beset you. Be crucified with Christ, as described by the Apostle Paul.
I have been crucified with Christ; and it is no longer I who live, but it is Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me. Galatians 2:19b-20
Living by faith in the Son of God is not easy! Jerome, the wise doctor, adds: “it takes no small effort to live in the present age in such a way that the life of Jesus is revealed in our flesh right now.” Thankfully, the Spirit which dwells within us makes us alive, so let us rest in the truth that God will do all this for His glory and because of His great love.