December 27, 2021

“For Christ is the end of the law for righteousness to everyone who believes.” (Romans 10:4)

A Christmas night showing of Les Mis brought home the powerful message of St. Paul in Romans 10. Javert is the Law (literally), hunting down Jean Valjean, who is the essence of grace. Valjean forgives and frees Javert, knowing that he – Valjean – will pay the price for Javert’s release. 

Finally, the Law gives way – Javert allows Jean to pass to safety. This totally undoes him. Having transgressed his own law, Javert despairs and jumps to his death. Law and Grace cannot co-mingle. As Javert sings, “There is nothing on earth that we share
It is either Valjean or Javert!”

St. John tells us that Moses brought the Law; Grace and Truth have come through Jesus Christ.

“Almighty God, you have poured upon us the new light of your incarnate Word: Grant that this light, enkindled in our hearts, may shine forth in our lives; through Jesus Christ our Lord, who lives and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. Amen.” (First Sunday after Christmas – BCP)