Scripture: Mark 12:28-31
One of the legal experts heard their dispute and saw how well Jesus answered them. He came over and asked him, “Which commandment is the most important of all?” Jesus replied, “The most important one is Israel, listen! Our God is the one Lord, and you must love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your being, with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is this, You will love your neighbor as yourself. No other commandment is greater than these.”
Thought for the Day: Jesus had so many unique approaches to teaching. There were days when he would tell a parable that was more than a simple metaphor, but a creative invitation to explore and ask provocative questions. There were other times, like what we see above, when Jesus laid his message out pretty clearly. Love God and love your neighbor. Of course, the question arises (in Luke’s Gospel), “Who is my neighbor?” But for the most part, Jesus was concise and clear, and it was those who were looking for loopholes who often muddied the waters. I am learning, often from my own mistakes, how clear communication is so important if you want to reduce the possibility of conflict. There will always be those who thrive in conflict, but much of the conflict we experience in community starts with unclear messages and messy presentations. No one heard Jesus and asked, “You really meant we were to tolerate our neighbor, right?” Jesus even used the word Agape to make it even more clear, as Agape is the Greek word for unconditional love. If you notice some conflict in your life, before blaming the other side, ask yourself the question, “Did I clearly and concisely articulate my thoughts?” Like me, you might need some work in this area.
Prayer: Wherever I can make improvements, O Heavenly Teacher, let me do so with both humility and excitement. Amen.
SEE YOU SUNDAY
Paul On Mars Hill
