Our devotions this Lenten season have been written by members of Faith Lutheran Church. Today’s devotion is by Lenora Ohlenbusch. Also, if you would like to join our staff in praying the liturgy for Responsive Prayer/Suffrages just click here.
The most important one,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is one. 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: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no commandment greater than these.” Mark 12:29-31
Every time I read or hear these verses I am somewhat overwhelmed by both the enormity and simplicity of the message. It seems so simple; all I have to do is love God and my fellow man. Jesus is restating the rules given to the Israelites through Moses. God gave us the 10 Commandments along with some specific rules of how to worship and live a holy life and to please Him so that He will bless us.
That is not the whole story. I can sit and love God with all my heart, soul, mind, and strength…and my neighbor as well. But it’s not just about me and loving. I have the responsibility to put that love to work by actually sharing the message and doing the things that reflect that love through evangelism, worship, fellowship, learning, healing, stewardship, and service.
The truly wonderful thing about this message is that all of us are capable of love. Age, gender, social status, color do not matter. We can all love. It doesn’t require money, time or a special talent. And, because we can love, it only follows that we can put that love to work through actions by becoming part of a church community, reaching out to help and comfort and by using our time, talents, and treasures to follow this “…the most important one…” and “…no greater than these…” commandment.
Let us pray: Our Heavenly Father, we thank you for the directions you have given us. Please help us to know and understand them, live them and share them. We know they were given with love and in the name of your Son, Jesus. Amen.
Daily Devotions 
March 12, 2012 at 6:36 pm |
This is an excellent message. The Shema is not just a great statement. It is a Life Message and a motivator. Thank you for adding the encouragement of James, that faith (and/or love) without being put into action (“works”) doesn’t accomplish much. Hope you will contribute again. Blessings and Love from a sister in Jesus.
March 13, 2012 at 8:24 am |
Just Beautiful…and timely.