header#title { display: none; }

Ready, Set, Go!

Scripture:

“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.’” (Matthew 22:37-39)

Reading:

“Ready. Set. Go!”

These commands mark the beginning of any great race. At the shout of “ready” runners prepare to give their all, setting their sights on the finish line.

Jesus also gave a command to those of us who “…run with perseverance the race marked out for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.” (Hebrew 12:1-2)

Nearing the end of Jesus’ own earthly race leaders of Judaism strategized to test and tempt Jesus. One of these men asked which of the 613 commandments is the most important. Jesus answered with the most recognized commandment in the Law, the Shema.

“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.” (Matthew 22:27-38)

Christians love God when our thinking and desires compel us to run our race obeying God. This is not an arbitrary moral idea. When you choose to obey God’s principles, you embody His nature. You love according to His will.

Jesus then said to the leaders, “And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” (Matt. 22:39)

Today cease from thinking that your knowledge of God equates loving Him. Instead, prepare yourself to follow what Jesus asks of you. Ask Him to help you embody His love. My friend in Christ, you are ready, set to go!

Application:

  1. In what situation do you need to choose God’s will over your own?

  2. As you interact with others, consider their needs. Is there a way to put them before yourself?

Prayer:

Thank You, Jesus Christ, for perfectly running Your race, pioneering the way to God for me. I want to love God with my whole being. Your Word says, “Anyone who loves God must also love their brother and

sister.” (1 John 4:21) I ask for grace to obey You and seek the greatest good of others. Amen.