“…This is the greatest and the first commandment. The second resembles it: You must love your neighbour as yourself.”
Matthew 22: 34 – 40
Today, Jesus gives us a concise summary of the entire Law. He goes directly to the heart of the matter, love. This command to love God and our neighbour is the foundation upon which our discipleship stands.
The command to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind means that our love for God should encompass our entire being, our intellect, emotions, and will. It makes us prioritize our relationship with God above all else. It also means acknowledging God as the source and sustenance of our lives.
The command to love our neighbour as ourselves, flows naturally from our love for God. When we truly love God, His love will naturally extend to those around us. This command makes us see others through God’s eyes.
Loving our neighbour means more than just avoiding harm; it makes us seek their well-being. It involves acts of kindness, forgiveness, and service and requires us to be empathetic and to stand in solidarity with those who are suffering. This love transcends all barriers and hurdles.