Devotion:
Read Matthew 22:34-40.
For me, this is one of those core, foundational passages of the whole Bible and of Jesus’ teaching. For those who are asking the question, the Law was the height of God’s revelation to humanity. It held the keys to us being able to be in a good relationship with God. It was our guide for life as God’s people. Yes, it was a test question for Jesus, but probably a question they had asked among themselves many times. What is the most important part of this revelation from God? “Which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”
Jesus quotes two parts of the Law and both of them focus on relationships: our relationship with God and our relationship with people. Both of them are grounded in love. When we truly love God with everything we are and when we truly want the best for another person as much as we want it for ourselves, we will be in a good and right relationship with God. We will be what God has created us to be.
Rules and relationships are both part of the teaching of the Bible. What I hear Jesus saying is that if you ever have to choose between the two, relationships are more important. The rules are simply there to guide us toward good relationships. If someone asks you for a quick summary of the whole Bible, here’s a good answer: Love God and love people!
Personal Worship Option:
What might you do today to let God know of your love? What might you do for another person to let them know of your love?
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