Recall the 10 Commandments that God gave to Moses in Exodus 20:
I. You shall have no other gods before me.
II. You shall not have idols.
III. You shall not use the Lord’s name in vain.
IV. Keep the Sabbath holy by doing no labor.
V. Honor your father and mother.
VI. You shall not murder.
VII. You shall not commit adultery.
VIII. You shall not steal.
IX. You shall not lie.
X. You shall not covet possessions of others.
During Jesus’ ministry, he was questioned by the Pharisees on which was the greatest law. Matthew 22:37-40 reads, “Jesus replied: ‘”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 Prophets hang on these two commandments.’“
It all makes sense when you think about it! If you love the Lord with everything you have, and you love other’s as yourself, all the other commandments will naturally follow! It has always been about looking at God’s law in a positive manner. Focusing not on what we shouldn’t do, but instead on what we can do to show or love for God and others!
What do these two great commandments tell us about God? They both have their foundation in love. The most important thing we can do is love one another! God’s love for us is indescribable and immeasurable! If we can give even a portion of that back to God and to our friends, families, and strangers, we’re becoming more Christ-like. That is one of our goals here on earth. To become more like Him.
Our God loves us so much, He sent Jesus to die on a cross. It’s the most terrible, painful, and humiliating way to die in ancient Rome. And God did it so we could have a relationship with Him. There is no longer a veil separating us from seeing His face or being in his presence! We’re now able to fulfill our original purpose and intimately draw near to God. How incredible and hopeful is that?!
As you pray, be sure to thank Him for his grace and mercy that now allows us to be with Him in heaven for eternity!
