“And Jesus replied to him, ‘You shall 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. The second is like it, You shall love your neighbor as yourself (that is unselfishly seek the best or higher good for others)
Matthew 22: 37-39(amp)
Jesus was and still is our greatest example of love. It was in this particular scripture that he was actually being interrogated by some of his most vocal critics, the Sadducees followed up by the Pharisees. These men were relentless! Only Jesus could handle their self-righteous sarcasm and hypocrisy. I’m sure they weren’t expecting Him to mention the second commandment in His response OR for Him to liken it to the first commandment. Jesus not only gave the commandment, but he also took Action and lived it.
Jesus was literally surrounded by his enemies including His own disciples. Despite this he chose to love. He exemplified love in the way that He chose to humble Himself. He lived a life of service even unto death. Everything about the way that Jesus lived His life runs counter to today’s society. He went out of his way to show love even to those who would betray and deny Him. I will be honest and say that at times I expect more than I am willing to give. I don’t feel like going the extra mile. I have zero interest in making any sacrifice. I can’t imagine what life would be like if Jesus lived in His feelings like I do at times.
So today as we celebrate love, let’s reflect on the love that we receive so freely from our Heavenly Father. He made the ultimate sacrifice by sending His Son Jesus to die for our sins (John 3:16). There is no greater love (John 15:13). Love is an action word, and it requires us to respond. Where do we begin? Start with those closest to you: your spouse, your children, your family, your friends, and even your co-workers. Even the smallest gesture (a text, a note, an act of kindness or service, etc.) will go a long way. Someone is waiting for you to take action!