Did you receive the Spirit by the works of the law or by the hearing of faith? Gal3.  We cannot earn the Spirit nor do we deserve it.  It is a gift just like faith is a gift.  If we think that because I am a good person God is going to give me the gift we are mistaken.  If we think that because I don't lie or steal or commit adultery God is going to give me the gift I am mistaken.  The righteousness that pleases God is the righteousness by faith not the righteousness by works.  This is St. Paul's fundamental insight.  Jew or Gentile can now receive the Spirit because it is not the result of keeping the Mosaic law but rather by acting by faith. 

            To hear by faith is to suspend our own ways of looking at things and believe God.  We need to read and hear the word of God but that is not enough.  Many people can quote scripture but that is not the hearing of faith.  We must silence the soul and listen.  We must silence the soul and believe.  It is an act of faith.  It requires letting go of what you may think is true and fair and equal and submit to God.  If we do this act by faith we will receive the Spirit by the hearing of faith and not by the works of the law. 

            This is all tied up with election.  If you are the elect then God will give you the gift of faith and you will hear by faith.  It is in one sense completely in the hands of God.  Yet on the other hand it requires our obedience.  The just shall live by faith.  If you are justified, it is because the word of God you heard was mingled with faith and you believed.  If you reject the word then you will not be justified nor will you receive the Spirit.  Be people of faith.  Forsake the world and follow God.  It is more important than the eye or hand or foot.  Take a leap of faith and believe and act.  Then you will know the truth and the truth will make you free.

Amen