St. Joseph's Catholic Church

Showing God our love by the way we live

In today’s Gospel, Jesus is asked which commandment is the greatest. His response is simple yet profound: to love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength, and to love our neighbor as ourselves (Mark 12:28-34). This is not just a new rule; it is the heart of our faith and the path to a life of holiness.

The first commandment Jesus cites is from Deuteronomy, part of the Jewish Shema: “Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is Lord alone.” This is a call to recognize that there is only one true God, who deserves our complete love and dedication. But Jesus goes further. He pairs this commandment with love of neighbor, showing us that genuine love for God cannot exist without love for others. These two commandments are inseparable, forming the foundation of a faithful life.

We can reflect on a few questions: How do we love God with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength? We love God by prioritizing Him in our lives, seeking His guidance, and aligning our values with His. It means setting aside time for prayer and worship and being willing to follow His teachings, even when it’s challenging.

Next, we’re called to love our neighbor as ourselves. This means treating others with respect, patience, and kindness, regardless of who they are or where they come from. Love of neighbor isn’t just about kindness to friends and family; it extends to strangers, those who may be difficult to love, and those who need our help the most. Jesus challenges us to reach beyond what is comfortable, opening our hearts to a love that mirrors His own.

As we reflect on these commandments, let us ask ourselves: Are we showing God our love by the way we live? Do our actions show respect and kindness to others, even those we may struggle with? Love is more than a feeling; it’s a choice we make every day to reflect God’s love to the world.

Let us pray for the strength to live out these commandments wholeheartedly, knowing that through them, we fulfill God’s purpose and become witnesses of His love in the world. Amen.