Love God and Others

Jesus declared, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”
– Matthew 22:37-20


When asked to identify the greatest commandment, Jesus did not hesitate. He named two. Love for God and love for neighbor are inseparable. Together, they form the foundation upon which all other commandments—and indeed all faithful living—are built.

Loving God completely transforms how we view others. We cannot claim to love Him fully while dismissing, demeaning, or discarding those made in His image. Jesus makes it clear: the evidence of our love for God is expressed through our love for others. Even when those “others” think differently, interpret differently, or walk differently within the Christian faith.

This command is not contingent on comfort or agreement. It’s not a suggestion to love when we feel like it, or only when it’s easy. It is a divine imperative that reveals God’s own heart—a heart of mercy, patience, and justice. If we want to take our faith seriously, this is where we must begin.


Questions

1. What does it mean to you that love for God and love for neighbor are equally essential?

2. How does your love for God shape your ability to love those you disagree with?

3. Are there “neighbors” in your faith community whom you have found difficult to love?


Suggested Activity

Think of one “neighbor” in your life—a fellow Christian whose views or actions frustrate you. Instead of trying to change their mind or avoid them, take one step today to show love: a prayer for their well-being, a kind word, or a silent blessing. Let that step remind you of your love for God.


Prayer

Almighty God, 

You have asked for my whole heart, soul, and mind—and You’ve asked me to love others with that same depth and dignity. I confess that it is easier to love You than to love my neighbor. But I know the two cannot be separated. Give me the grace to love across differences, to see others as You do, and to live in such a way that Your love flows through me.

In Jesus’ name I pray. Amen.

- 

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