"Jesus replied, 'The most important commandment is this, Listen , O Israel! The LORD our God is the one and only LORD. And you must love the LORD your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength."
Mark 12:29
Mark 12:29
My Take Aways
Something Old:
I can't love my neighbor unless I love myself. It is OK to love myself. Loving myself is not prideful.
Something New:
Matthew 22:40
"The entire law and all the demand of the prophets are based on these two commandments."
Everything is based on these two commandments-everything.All-whole, complete, every whit
all my heart, all of my soul, all of my mind, all of my strength
Something to Do:
Do something to show love to my neighbor.
16 Comments:
Good Morning All!
Jodie, I am praying for you and your mom! I resonated with what Jeanne said last night, God has a plan for your mom. He is not forsaking her! He is working His will in her life. I pray for healing which He can give both of you!
Jeanne, joining you in early morning prayer time! My travels have me all messed up from a time zone perspective.
Wendy, thank you for your message today. It seems it was meant for me. Over the last two weeks, as I have been reading the Gospel accounts, I have been impressed by the repeated message to be humble, to serve others, to love my neighbor, to not act in my own strength, to have faith (even if it is small to start) and to NEVER BE ASHAMED to proclaim the Good News. And all these things are wrapped up in the two commandments!
Be humble yet love yourself; these two concepts seem a contradiction. I think this is why so many women struggle with self-esteem. We are trained to be less; to put others first. Somehow our human minds translate that into "worth less". The freeing nature of Jesus' words is that this is not the case.
"The greatest among you must be a servant. But those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted." (Matt. 23:11-12)
Humble: (Greek word "tapeinoo") -
c. to lower, depress
1. of one's soul bring down one's pride
2. to have a modest opinion of one's self
3. to behave in an unassuming manner
4. devoid of all haughtiness (Studylight.org)
haughty (Wordnet)
adj 1: having or showing arrogant superiority to and disdain of those one views as unworthy; [syn: disdainful, haughty, imperious, lordly, overbearing, prideful, sniffy, supercilious, swaggering]
Exalt: (Greek Hupsoo) -
1.to lift up on high, to exalt
2. metaph.
a. to raise to the very summit of opulence and prosperity
b. to exalt, to raise to dignity, honour and happiness (Studylight.org)(cont.)
(cont.)
Okay, I object to defining a word with itself, so I also checked Dictionary.com: Exalt –verb (used with object)
1. to raise in rank, honor, power, character, quality, etc.; elevate: He was exalted to the position of president.
2. to praise; extol: to exalt someone to the skies.
3. to stimulate, as the imagination: The lyrics of Shakespeare exalted the audience.
4. to intensify, as a color: complementary colors exalt each other.
5. Obsolete . to elate, as with pride or joy.
When we are humble (bring down our pride, have a modest opinion of ourselves, have an unassuming manner, lose our arrogance), we will be intensified, stimulated, praised, raised in dignity, honor and happiness, and lifted up. We are not worth less.
My faith has been small over the last couple of weeks. I have felt adrift and disconnected. I have been described as testy. Sometimes I think this is so unfair! All around me seem to be able to have an off day, be critical of others, be "testy", gossip and complain, but I can't! Then I remember these commandments. I REALLY can't. I am held to a different standard. I am set apart. I am a child of the light and I need to be a light to the world. When I realize this, I pray and confess my sin. I do not want to conform to the world. I need to walk in the light.
Thank you for ministering to me. Rhonda, thank you for sharing from the lector's workbook. You share important insight. Joy, thank you for your poetic take on the readings. I always have something to chew on after reading your posts. Jacque, your walk this year has really made your testimony personal and I thank you for sharing so openly. Lori, your enthusiasm makes me smile and uplifts me daily. Michelle and Morgen, you both get right to the point and in a few words really hit the nail on the head. Grace&Peace, Amy, Dixie, Teeny, Gaylene, and all the others of you who post (and I don't want to leave out anyone so I will stop listing names), thank you for ministering to me especially when my faith is small and my cup is woefully empty.
Be blessed today,
Karen, Basel
Karen,
I think you so nailed it! We don't see ourselves as important, and I think sometimes it even bugs me to be taking care of all the "important-but-I'm-not" people around me when I'm tired and worn out, when if I viewed things correctly, I'd be in a better place to care for my family because I'd get a bit of care, too. Gotta work on that.
Jodie, praying for you today!
I have good news - finally! My husband heard yesterday that his job is safe! That could change if anything else happens, but then that's the position that everyone's in, so it doesn't feel so big right now. I'm so happy to be able to see how He took care of this issue!
Have a great Tuesday!
Amy
I LOVE you, my precious "neighbor"!! I am praying for you!!!
Wow! Great post Wendy. You gave me alot to ponder and chew on today. When you described what it really means to love God perfectly, and also love our neighbors the same way, I realized that this side of Heaven it is impossible...BUT (there's that great word)...what is Heaven gonna be like when this kind of love happens everyday? When all there is is perfect love goin' on? Wowie! I'm excited!
When you defined loving our neighbors (which include people we don't exactly like) and we are to delight in their approach! Ouch! That is so far from my truth that that one stung me. I can be such an avoider...this is an area I see that I need work. Yikes!
When Jesus answered the Pharisee's question about which commandment is the greatest; He answered them with the same verse in Deuteronomy that they quoted many times a day and wore inside the phylacteries on their heads and wrists! (thank you Courson for your commentary)...I wondered, what do I wear or see everyday that I so take for granted that it has lost its meaning for me? A cross around my neck? Even reading the Bible each day? Do I do it with awe and wonderment, grasping its meaning? Or has it become like the verses on the Pharisee's head and wrist...just routine? Something to ponder GIG!
Blessed Tuesday to all!
Morgen
Good morning, GIGs,
I haven't read posts yet, but Wendy, your teaching was just what I needed this morning. I feel like I got up on the proverbial wrong side of the bed, and am having to ask our Lord big time for the grace to be the woman He wants me to be, instead of the one I FEEL like being this morning. It's just the accumulation of a bunch of little frustrating things that I don't have much control over. Thank you, Lord, that YOU are in control of these things. I need to work harder on trusting You.
Have a blessed day, all. I'm trying to make it a 4:8 day (grin!)
Peace and Gratitude,
Michelle in New England
Good Tuesday to all!
I love how Jesus somes up all of the law in a few sentences. They are washing, sacrificing, trying to do everything according to the law. But Jesus shows them (and us) how when it is about our doing and not our loving we are hypocrites! The fact that He called them hypocrites so many times caught my eye.
Lord ~ I confess that I often get caught up in what You want me to do but if it is not out of love for You and for the other person I am a hypocrite. Please Lord, help me get this one so tattooed in my brain and heart that I can not serve You without loving You first and truly loving the person You call me to serve. I can only do it through Your Holy Spirit in me! Come Holy Spirit, please enable this kind of love in my heart and my precious family in You! We plead for this kind of Love to be evident in our lives because then they will see You!! In the mighty name of Jesus!
Amen
D
Wendy...my heart was so touched by all your shared today...and by all the comments above. Oh how I long to love the Lord, my God with my all.
That verse says "the LORD your God". He has to be "my God" first. My Lord. There must be that personal relationship before that type of love can be given. As the saying goes, "To know me is to love me". To KNOW the Lord truly, is to love Him. Wholeheartedness opens the way for genuine intimacy.
I was also taken with Matthew 23:5, "Everything they do is for show." Wish I had time to expand on that right now.
A perfectionist, I give great attention to precise and proper words. Precise and proper living. There is a danger to perfection. It can be an enemy to authenticity. My life can't be performance...don't want to be the "good Bible study girl" on the outside, while my heart is far from God. As Lysa TerKeurst writes in her book, I want the "more than".
I want my life to be real...no pretending...absolutely authentic...vulnerable...what others see on the outside to be a true reflection of my heart.
Praying for God to search me today,
Joy
My sweet sisters’ all over the nation…So much is on my heart that I just feel I could explode with joy. I do wish I had the ability of few words, as I want so badly to explain a God moment I had yesterday, that opened my eyes in a new way.
I know we each have God’s Spirit in us. But, yesterday I experienced a God moment with another person-my MOTHER (!) – simultaneously! And, minutes later, God spoke to me, re: our Spirit’s across the miles. Girls’ they are one. As we each pray over each other, the Holy Spirit that is in me, is the same Holy Spirit that is in you guys –the Holy Spirit that guides us and knows our individual concerns! This was such a huge revelation to me. I knew this, but it surfaced into clarity. Showing me, that yes indeed, as we pray over each other – God directs our prays and actually prays our words when we are filled with His Spirit. It also affirmed to me the power that we have here in numbers.
I’ve been on a mission you all know to –know God. Now, I’m praying more specifically –to receive a Spirit of wisdom and revelation, which will allow me to know God more. Ladies, yesterday, He showed me a part of Himself, in such a big way.
So, I guess the bottom line: to keep praying and never give up. smile
Today – loved the same verse you spoke of sweet, Wendy! I do see people as God’s creation. When there are difficult ones, I pray to see the golden thread that is sewn through that person – it’s like a challenge to see thru the eyes of God. It can’t be me tho –it’s got to be the power of the Holy Spirit within me doing it! Every person is a creation from God. Every person. That does not leave anyone out. God created every single person we come into contact with – as an image of Himself. Makes you look at people a bit differently, doesn’t it? Each person here on earth was made, to be saved. That is why Jesus died. He died to save us. All of us.
Today, sweet and beloved sisters let’s set out on purpose to love not in word, neither in talk; but in action and in truth (I John 3:18).
Welcome back Karen! I’ve been watching for you to pop in! I agree with everything you wrote, and only wish I had time to do comments to you guys! You each bless me daily and draw me closer to my Father.
“I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.” ~ Ephesians 1:17
Love u all ~ Lori
Hi All!
The reading today was so right on. Thru our church we will soon be having our "Love Thy Neighbor" workday. We sign up to participate in nursing home visits, cleaning at an AIDS facility, teenagers wash cars for free, individuals homes or property (usually elderly citizens) are cared for and on and on and on.
My new group at church is seeking a name and a Bible verse for inspiration. I am thinking sincerely about this one. I am also going to suggest a random act of love or kindness for the whole church during the holiday season. I will be asking you all to participate too wherever you are. More on that at a later date.
You have heard me talk about Special Pops. Well it is partially funded by our city government, so unfortunately I can't openly preach or sing religion - separation of church and state - bah! That is when I make a statement by wearing a big cross. No one can stop me from doing that! These special people are very impressionable - trying to imitate others. But I have found when I have been able to talk to them with no one around - most of them have a childlike faith and go to church regularly and they know ALL about loving everyday! They have no concept about outward appearances - just pure unadulterated love shines forth. Lord, that we could be more like them in forgetting fashions or "political" correctness and go for the love. Amen
Jodie, I too have a secret wish to visit Israel so I feel badly for your mother. I know that it won't be the same, but if she is unable to go this time, maybe a special video on The Holy Land would be a great present for her this Christmas. Maybe I will be able to go in the next years with my daughter in Bahrain but it doesn't look too likely. I look forward to seeing the "New" Jerusalem someday minus the poverty and strife and hate that infects the current one.
By the way, Joel Rosenberg reading fans. My copy of his new book just released is on the way to me. "The Twelfth Iman". A novel, but history in the making, according to current headlines in the newspapers.
Bless each and everyone of you today and always as we struggle on to do his will for us..........
Love, Dixie in 90 degree Florida!
Good morning my dear Wendy and GIGs, The teaching of the Word, and each of your comments has touched me and brought tears to my eyes this morning. To read your heartfelt comments is also the cry of my heart. To love with His love!
Amen to all that you wrote and Wendy taught. Father God, may I become the woman You created me to be and love through the power of Holy Spirit everyone, even the unlovely, who cross my path. There are no accidents with the Lord. He knows exactly what I (we) need to be drawn closer to Him.
SAPing for all of your requests. Jodie and Mom, Amy, thanking God for husband's job, Karen, glad you're back. You all bless me more than I can possibly express in words.
Go Warriors! Voting each day.
Having a 4:8 Tuesday.
Teeny
So good you are back Karen! Your words always enrich us. Traveling the way you do is so hard for this homebody to comprehend, but thankfully being grounded in your faith is something you can take anywhere. Always praying for your safe travels.
Jodie, maintain your hope. Hang tight while you are in your valley, and soon you will be on your way up the mountain again. Praying for you.
I copied a verse that I want to put all over my house.
Matt. 23:26 "You blind Pharisee! First wash the inside of the cup, and then the outside will become clean too."
When everything looks "good" on the outside, is that enough? NO! It is such a burden to deal with all the hidden stuff. If I open a closet door, what will fall on my head?! Ouch! Do I hide the circles under my eyes to mask that I am neglecting my Temple? Why? What is hiding in my life that I would be embarrassed for others to see? What is hiding in my heart? God still sees everything, including my motives and thoughts and inaction.
I am really working on those closets, attic corners, basement rooms-- all my dark holes. I'm working on getting more rest, nutrition, exercising-- not so much to look good, but to feel healthy. I am craving an authentic life-- "what you see is what you get!" I don't want to waste my time anymore with the fall-out, the pretense, the burden of all the COVER-UPS in my life. (My Mom actually taught us to cover up counter stuff with dish towels! Yikes!)
And all the hidden not-so-Godly stuff, how do I deal with this? I need to daily ask for forgiveness and assistance with the housekeeping in my heart. I want to be an authentic person from the inside out. I want my cup to be totally clean, shiny, ready for overflowing! I want harmony in mind body spirit and home. An authentic child through and through.
Blessings,
Jacque
A hearty Amen. Jacque.
Michelle, please share your ideas with us for blessing others.
Teeny
Loving Neighborhood All…
Commentary from: workbook for lectors and gospel readers; by James L. Weaver
Matthew 22:34-40
The specific laws Jesus mentions in today’s reading are found in Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18. Matthew, Mark, and Luke each have a version of this exchange (see Mark 12:34-38 and Luke 10:25-37). In Galatians, Paul gives and even shorter version of the principle, observing, “For the whole law is fulfilled in one statement, namely, ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Galatians 5:14; see also Romans 13:9).
In Luke’s Gospel, the exchange takes place between Jesus and a “scholar of the law,” Unlike both Mark and Matthew, the exchange sets up the parable of the Good Samaritan, in which Jesus radically redefines what it means to be a neighbor to someone: the relationship of neighbor to neighbor is not one of loving and compassionate service without thought of religion, ethnicity, and so on.
In Paul’s letter to the Churches of Galatia, the command to love one’s neighbor as oneself works differently. Paul quotes it to show that Christians freedom from Jewish law does not mean “anything goes.”
We cannot say on the basis of today’s reading that Matthew claims Jesus cast aside Jewish law except in two instances, for Matthew’s Gospel contains a high and approving view of the law. The evangelist records, for example, that Jesus called his followers to an even stricter level of legal observance than that of the Pharisees (see Matthew 5:17-20). Matthew’s Jesus understood the love of God and neighbor to be the law’s foundation, not its entire content.
Working for our annual ham and sausage dinner….(Sunday) I’m always amazed at how it all pulls together. Community….the young, the old. the in-between, male, female…all food homemade. From getting together on Thursday night for making the homemade sausage …(skinning the meat right off of the bone ourselves) to all the hall cleaning…potato pealing, carrot shinning, homemade cranberry sauce, homemade bread…setting up tables…watching everyone pulling together……helping the neighbor it truly is amazing.
No it is not all perfect…hear some wonder how much longer it will continue.
Karen…always great to see your name up there first…I’m like Jacque a homebody…you have some amazing energy. I would be out til at least midweek.
Jennifer Renee…How did your spiritual Mom make out? Hope she was better for your weekend together with her?
Jodie Ottawa…Feel this ((warm group hug))) from us sisters…Keep persevering!! You are planted in rich soil. “But as for the seed that fell on rich soil, they are the ones who, when they have heard the word embrace it with a generous and good heart, and bear fruit through perseverance.” Keep believing. You have been in my prayer thoughts. When I read this one minute devotion know I SAPed for you…
One minute devotions:
*The Power of the Rosary….Some people do not like to take the medicine that would heal them, and call it nonsense. The rosary is exactly that medicine which cures an amazing deal of nonsense.
*The Face of Christ……To recite the rosary is nothing other than to contemplate with Mary the face of Christ. Help me find time today, Lord, to sit in silence and contemplate your face. Mary, pray with me and for me.
From: Through the year with Mary…..365 reflections…..by :Karen Edmisten
Jeanne NC…Big Congratulations!! Welcome Will!! Keeping you & Laura in prayers…The image of Jesus: Our children do require great sacrifices, but our sacrifices and opportunities to be molded into the image of Jesus. Thanks for being a great Mom and now Grandmother. Best wishes to both of you.
Sons regional game got canceled cause of weather…calling for some very high winds and thunderstorms. Rescheduled for Thurs.
Praying for all and know you all are special and unique.
Seeing God in others,
Rhonda
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My take aways from today's readings was the scripture "Love the Lord your God with ALL your heart, with ALL your soul, with ALL your mind, and ALL your strength."
And there at the very end where Jesus takes notice of what the poor woman put in the offering and what the rich ppl put in. Sure the rich gave large sums of money, but it was only a tiny portion of their surplus. Where as the poor woman only put in two coins, but it was ALL she had.
How often to I give God my ALL in every aspect of my life?
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