Gospel 

Mark 12:28b-34

One of the scribes came to Jesus and asked him, "Which is the first of all the commandments?" Jesus replied, "The first is this: Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is Lord alone! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. The second is this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these." The scribe said to him, "Well said, teacher. You are right in saying, 'He is One and there is no other than he.' And 'to love him with all your heart, with all your understanding, with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself' is worth more than all burnt offerings and sacrifices." And when Jesus saw that he answered with understanding, he said to him, "You are not far from the kingdom of God." And no one dared to ask him any more questions.

Sermon

My brothers and sisters in Christ, today's passage reveals Jesus' conversation with a scribe about the greatest commandments. Let's explore the significance of loving God and our neighbors.

Key Principles

1. The Great Commandment

Love God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength (Deuteronomy 6:4-5).

2. The Second Commandment

Love your neighbor as yourself (Leviticus 19:18).

3. Unity and Priorities

Loving God and neighbors surpasses rituals and sacrifices.

Implications for Us

1. Wholehearted Devotion

Commit to loving God with every aspect of your being.

2. Compassionate Love

Treat others with kindness and respect.

3. Kingdom Priorities

Focus on relationships over rituals.

Conclusion

Jesus' teachings remind us to prioritize loving God and our neighbors.

Reflection Questions

1. How do you demonstrate love for God?

2. Who is your neighbor, and how do you show love?

3. What priorities need adjusting in your life?

Action Steps

1. Engage in acts of service for others.

2. Study biblical teachings on love (1 Corinthians 13).

3. Prioritize relationships and community.

Additional Resources

1. Explore Jesus' teachings on love (Matthew 22:37-40).

2. Reflect on biblical examples of loving neighbors (Luke 10:25-37).

Key Verses

1. "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength." (Mark 12:30)

2. "Love your neighbor as yourself." (Mark 12:31)

Prayer

Let us pray: + In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Almighty, merciful, and loving God, help us love You with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength. May our devotion to You be wholehearted and unwavering. Grant us compassion to love our neighbors as ourselves, treating others with kindness, respect, and empathy. May our priorities align with Your kingdom values, focusing on relationships over rituals.

Guide us to:

• Demonstrate love through acts of service.
• Cultivate meaningful connections.
• Prioritize community and unity.

In Jesus' most holy name, Amen.

+ In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit. Amen.

Peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you,

Rev. Fr. Jhimerson Maneclang,SCJ