“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 the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” -Matthew 22:37-40
My daughter is learning to drive. She has completed her driver’s education and will take her test after she turns 16. She now has her permit and shuttles me around town. She is doing a great job! Currently, I am trying to make sure she understands the rules of the road, both written and unwritten. She is a great student and learns quickly, but there is so much to learn.
It is hard to operate under so many laws. Even the best drivers break the rules, most often unintentionally. This knowledge doesn’t give us permission to break the rules; it is a reminder of how diligent we must be. I tell my daughters it is to protect you and others. I want her to enjoy the freedom and adventure driving offers, but I also want her to be safe.
Do you know how many laws there are in the Bible? There are 613 laws found in the first five books of the Bible. There are other laws and commandments found throughout the scriptures. The most faithful among us fall short of perfection under the law. Thank God for grace!
God did not intend for us to live a life dictated by law but by love. This is not permission to break the rules but a reminder that the words of God are spoken to protect us and others. God does not just want to keep us safe but set us up for success. The law of love allows us to live a life abundant and full. (John 10:10)
The Pharisees took great pride in how they followed the law. They worked hard to obey the law of Moses and the oral tradition that emerged since the exodus. They were not only faithful followers of the law but also dedicated to teaching the adherence of the law to others. A group of Pharisees confronted Jesus about the law. They wanted a debate. They asked him, “Which is the greatest commandment in the law?” Jesus’ reply was a beautiful summation of the law. He told them the Love of God and neighbor is the foundation of all God’s law. God is love, and God’s actions towards us are done in love. God wants the best for us, and God intends for us to offer our best as well. When we act, we should act in love. This is how we fulfill the law and experience the life we intend to live. Love is the most important thing.
Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
