Make Us Love What You Command
Posted October 26th, 2008 by fr. greg
Matthew 22:34-36
Our Collect (prayer) this morning says, “Almighty and everlasting God, increase in us the gifts of faith, hope, and charity; and, that we may obtain what you promise, make us love what you command…” When asked about the greatest commandment, Jesus responded with the two great commandments summarizing the law: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind; love your neighbor as yourself.” This was an entirely uncontroversial answer. Yet Jesus’ answer draws out the false dichotomy often felt between loving God and loving neighbor. When there is no response, Jesus asks the religious leaders a political question pointing out that even David the King had to submit to the Messiah. We are called to receive the gift of God that we may love what God commands. In this frenzied season of American politics, we the church need to remember that God’s gift is none other than Jesus the Word, by whom and in whose Spirit we love what God commands.