Monday 18 September 2023

Matthew 22:34-40

³⁴ Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. ³⁵ One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: ³⁶ “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”

³⁷ Jesus replied: “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ ³⁸ This is the first and greatest commandment. ³⁹ And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ ⁴⁰ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

The Pharisees may have been trying to trip Jesus up on his knowledge of the law but little did they know Jesus response encompassed the core of human existence: love. He said, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbour as yourself.” These two commandments, Jesus explained, are the foundation on which all other laws and teachings rest.

In the busyness of life, it’s easy to get caught up in trivialities and lose sight of what truly matters. In Matthew 22:34-40, Jesus provides us with a profound yet simple guide for life that can transform our relationships, actions, and perspectives.  At its essence, this passage teaches us that love is the key to living a purposeful life. Love for God keeps us grounded in gratitude and devotion, reminding us of our spiritual connection and purpose. Love for our neighbours, which includes everyone we encounter, helps us foster compassion, understanding, and unity.

Dear Lord, thank you for the wisdom found in Matthew 22:34-40. Please help me to love you with all my mind, heart and soul.  Help me also to see how I can best love my neighbour.  Amen

Written by Ps. Ainslie Woods