In this encounter, rather than getting caught up in a prolonged theological debate with the religious teacher, Jesus answers him plainly. This is one of the few times that Jesus answered a question directly. He usually responded to questions from others with a question or a thoughtful parable.
Perhaps Jesus was fed up with navigating
the traps of the religious leaders, or maybe he recognised a genuine desire from the teacher of the law to gain a greater understanding of God.
Whatever the reason, Jesus answers the question of the greatest commandment by quoting from the Torah (Deuteronomy 6:4-5): “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 strength.”
In this moment, Jesus reveals that our relationship with God is our ultimate priority. Loving God isn’t just about attending church, praying, or reading the Bible. These are good and essential things, but true devotion to God is about giving God our whole selves—our hearts, souls, minds, and strength. When we love God in this complete way, it naturally overflows into everything else we do.
Jesus' first command is simple yet profound. It challenges us to examine whether we truly love God with all that we are.
How do you understand Jesus' first great commandment to love God with your heart, soul and strength? How can you allow God to help you love God more deeply? Is your love for God evident in your decisions, thoughts, and actions? relationship with God?
Reflections by Rev Joe Taylor
