“You are not far from the kingdom of God.” – Jesus (Mark 12:34)
This line from Jesus really stands out to me, especially because of who He was talking to at the time. Jesus didn’t usually get along with the teachers of the Law, the religious leaders of His day. They were always focused on the letter of the Law, but usually seemed to miss God’s heart for us in it. And they legalistically enforced their particular, narrow interpretation of the Law. Yet Jesus complimented this particular teacher. This guy got it. He agreed with Jesus when He said that the greatest commandments were to love God with everything you have and to love your neighbor as yourself. This teacher understood that love is “more important than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.” (vs. 33) He knew that it was all about love. The question is, do we? Do I? When I’m tempted, is it legalism or fear that keep me from sin? Or is it love? When I do ministry, do I do it out of duty? Or do I really want to worship God and share His love with people?Jesus, thank You for Your love. Thank You that Your kingdom is all about love. Help me to truly understand and live in that truth. To live in Your love. To live a life of love. Amen. ロビン