Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: "Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?"
Jesus replied: "'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments"
Matthew 22: 34-39
Remember the Pharisees? Their motives were not to learn truth, but rather to test Jesus. His answer confronts them with the most vital question of their lives…Will they choose love or not? It always encourages my heart to see Jesus, in his great compassion and mercy speak words of truth and opportunity even to those who are obviously trying to discredit him. He knows they are in error in their hearts and motives, yet he offers them vital, transforming words. Will they choose love or not??
What beautiful simplicity Jesus offers in a complex and confusing world. It really comes down to choosing to love. There is no way to over emphasize love! Jesus elevated love above all other commands.
God created us for relationships with Him and with others, relationships based on loving. So as we personally experience more and more of God’s love, we increase our capacity to love others as well.
So here is the question of the day. Will we choose love or not? What will that look like? Will relationship with and love for my Savior and Lord be my priority? Will I choose to spend focused time with Him? Will I set my heart to remember what this coming week commemorates? Will I respond to His love for me by being so filled, that it overflows to those around me?
Yes, Jesus! I choose love!
Sherry Haake
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