January 12 reading

Letter to the Galatians 6,11-18.
See what large letters I make when I am writing in my own hand!
It is those who want to make a good showing in the flesh that try to compel you to be circumcised only that they may not be persecuted for the cross of Christ.
Even the circumcised do not themselves obey the law, but they want you to be circumcised so that they may boast about your flesh.
May I never boast of anything except the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, by which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world.
For neither circumcision nor uncircumcision is anything; but a new creation is everything!
As for those who will follow this rule peace be upon them, and mercy, and upon the Israel of God.
From now on, let no one make trouble for me; for I carry the marks of Jesus branded on my body.
May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit, brothers and sisters. Amen.

Holy Gospel of Jesus Christ according to Saint Matthew 11,11-15.
Truly I tell you, among those born of women no one has arisen greater than John the Baptist; yet the least in the kingdom of heaven is greater than he.
From the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven has suffered violence, and the violent take it by force.
For all the prophets and the law prophesied until John came;
and if you are willing to accept it, he is Elijah who is to come.
Let anyone with ears listen!