Gospel: Mark 12:28-34
One of the scribes came near and heard them disputing with one another, and seeing that he answered them well, he asked him, ‘Which commandment is the first of all?’ Jesus answered, ‘The first is, “Hear, O Israel: the Lord our God, the Lord is one; you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.” The second is this, “You shall love your neighbour as yourself.” There is no other commandment greater than these.’ Then the scribe said to him, ‘You are right, Teacher; you have truly said that “he is one, and besides him there is no other”; and “to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the strength”, and “to love one’s neighbour as oneself”,-this is much more important than all whole burnt-offerings and sacrifices.’ When Jesus saw that he answered wisely, he said to him, ‘You are not far from the kingdom of God.’ After that no one dared to ask him any question.
Reflection:
The Gospel
Our gospel for today is from Mark 12:28-34 which is all about the greatest commandment. One scribe asked Jesus, ‘Which commandment is the first of all?’ Well then, Jesus answered him: “Love the Lord your God with all your soul and heart, mind and strength.” The second is this, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” These two commandments are the greatest.
Important Message of the Gospel
Mark 12:28-34 is all about the two greatest commandments God gave us. We will abide to these commandments while we are here on earth. “Love one another as I have loved you, take a risk and open up your heart.” These are lines of the song entitled Live Fully and the message were proclaiming love to one another. We should not be selfish in giving our love for free to others as well.
What We Have to Do
As Mark 12:28-34 suggested about the greatest commandments, it is now our time to do good and open our eyes to see. We must be closer to God ever than before, we must commit to love our neighbors as well. How do we show love to our neighbors? It is by giving your help when they are in need. It is in giving charity to those who need most. It is offering your talent to God all for His glory. It is by loving God with all you heart and soul.
Deep Realization
In our recent situation where Covid is still out there, we need to be strong enough for everyone. If only our government officials are true and sincere, then we may not be suffering today. If only our leaders have fear of God, they will not abandon their people.
Our world today is in chaos and children are the most affected ones. If only people internalize the love of one another, this this world may be a heaven. We must pray harder for our nation and our leaders to have more faith in God and turn away from the sparkle of power.
October Saints
St. Therese of Lisieux
St. Teresa of Avila
