To Fulfill

In today's gospel passage, Jesus assures his listeners that he did not come to abolish the law, but to fulfill it. (cf. Mt 5:17).  The old law was strict and clear, based on the fear of punishment. Certainly, when the Jews drifted from it over the centuries, they were punished, and even led into captivity.  Picture a parent teaching and disciplining a young child, using language the child will understand...some sort of punishment, usually a deprivation of "freedom" for a time. But then, as the child grows older, the parent can explain and give reasons why such and such is a rule in their home. As a loving relationship grows, the child obeys and responds in love.  So too with Jesus, as he motivates us away from the fear of punishment, to a loving, willing response. Indeed that is the fulfillment of the Law.
Bro. Rene