Peace to all on this Thursday of the 9th week of ordinary time!
What is the greatest commandment?
Jesus tells us in today’s gospel.
“Love the Lord your God with your whole heart, mind, soul and with all your strength. And, love your neighbor as yourself.”
For the Jewish scribe, he knew well the first part because it was the Law of Moses, but the second part was more unfamiliar to him because he was used to offering sacrifice and holocausts in the temple. So, it was a real epiphany for him.
It is hard sometimes to love ourselves, to love our neighbor, and, yes, even at times to love God. But, Jesus does not say that we should or could or might do these things. No, he says you shall love. It is an imperative from Jesus that we do these things.
Let us pray to God for help in doing these things as we continue our journeys with the Lord. Amen!
Scripture:
“The word of God is not chained. If we have died with him we shall also live with him; if we persevere we shall also reign with him.” (2 Timothy 2)
“Teach me your ways, O Lord. For you are God my savior. All the paths of the Lord are kindness and constancy.” (Psalm 25)
“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” (Mark 12)
Blessings, pono and pule!
Fr. Brian Guerrini, ss.cc.
Priest
Molokai