In the Gospels we find “the Great Commandment” of Jesus — love God and love neighbor. But St. Mark tells the story by quoting from the beginning of the pericope, Deutronomy 4:6. “Hear, O Israel: the LORD is our God, the LORD is One.” The imperative, therefore, is not to love but to hear. Love flows from, is a product of, the hearing. I think the best way to understand the passage is to think of a parent holding their new born child in their arms for the first time. No commandment to love is necessary. The very relationship produces love. So with God. Once we “hear” (not just with our ears but with our whole being) of God’s goodness toward us we will love, we must love.
JUNE82017
By Church Staff