Read: Mark 12:28–34
One of the scribes came near….He asked Jesus, “Which commandment is the first of all?” Mark 12:28
Love. When all the rules and regulations of this life—as well as the rules of the Bible—are scrutinized, Jesus’ message rings true. Love fulfills the law. Love God and love your neighbor and you will never find yourself breaking any rules. While it can seem impossibly difficult to love at certain times and to love certain people, love is the simple answer to living well and righteously before God. If we loved, we would not abuse. If we loved, we would not cheat or steal. If we loved, we would not horde for ourselves. If we loved…God’s will would reign on earth as it is in heaven.
Why do you find it difficult to love?
Lord, help me to love others as I hope You love me. When I confront all kinds of evil and abuse and misfortune, let me respond in love. When I am grieved, or feel injured, or disappointed by others, let me respond in love. When I have the choice to lash out and retaliate and press my own rights, let me respond in love. Train me to make love my default setting. I so desperately want to love better and more completely. In Jesus’ name, I pray. AMEN.