The Greatest Commandment

Love God and Neighbor

Mark 12:28-34

One of the scribes came up and asked him, ‘Which commandment is the first of all?’ Jesus answered, ‘The first is, “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one; you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength.” The second is this: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” There is no commandment greater than these.’ The scribe said to him, ‘You have answered correctly, Teacher. “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind and with all your strength” and “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” — these are more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.’ And Jesus said to him, ‘You are not far from the kingdom of God.’’

In this passage, Jesus is confronted by a scribe who tests Him with a question about the greatest commandment. The scribe, well-versed in the Law of Moses, attempts to trick Jesus or perhaps to learn from His wisdom. Jesus, however, responds with clarity and authority, revealing the heart of the Law.

The Essence of the Law

The two commandments Jesus cites are from the Old Testament, specifically Deuteronomy 6:4-5 and Leviticus 19:18. Jesus elevates these two to the highest position, emphasizing their importance above all the ceremonial laws and sacrifices.

• Love God with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength: This means a total commitment to God, a love that involves every aspect of our being. It’s a love that is passionate, intellectual, and physical.
• Love your neighbor as yourself: This commandment requires us to love others as we love ourselves, treating them with kindness, compassion, and respect.

The Significance of Love

By highlighting these two commandments, Jesus reveals the true nature of God’s law. It’s not a burdensome list of rules but a call to love God and love others. This love, Jesus implies, is the ultimate fulfillment of the Law.

• Love as the Foundation of Faith: When we love God, we are drawn closer to Him. This love motivates us to follow His teachings and to live a life that honors Him.
• Love as the Basis of Community: Loving our neighbors is essential for building strong, compassionate communities. It’s through love that we overcome divisions and work towards a more just and equitable world.

Conclusion

The greatest commandment is not about religious rituals or sacrifices but about heartfelt devotion to God and genuine concern for others. By embracing these two commandments, we can live a life that is truly pleasing to God and beneficial to humanity.

What are your thoughts on this passage? How can we apply these commandments to our daily lives? Please leave your comments below?