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 NIV
"Jesus replied." In reading, we often take for granted that Jesus responded to questions. Sometimes, the questions were honest inquiries or asked by doubters requiring proof, yet at other times; they were meant to try and trip Jesus up. For example, the question asked by the Pharisee that prompted this reply was meant to entrap, “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” (22:36). Jesus could have ignored the question; it would have perhaps been safer for him to do so, but in His response, we receive a single instruction, to love.
We all have questions for Jesus today. "Why is there cancer? Why do young people die? Even, why isn't my prayer being answered?" No queries are too challenging or personal for Jesus; he listens intently and compassionately to our questions and replies. His timing may not be instantaneous. It may not be the answer we think we want. Or, perhaps, it may be an invitation to look for the reply in scripture. The Bible is God’s guidebook, full of examples of people asking questions and receiving answers. The book of Job is one such encounter of a righteous man who takes his questions to God and God’s responses when tested.
God, we give thanks that you invite questions, and you reply. We confess sometimes we hesitate to ask questions. We feel they are too small, too personal, or even that they demonstrate doubt. But you are a personal and intimate God who desires deep and meaningful dialogue with us, who listens and answers our questions. Father, we bring all our questions to you in this moment with confidence you will answer. Please help us to be attentive to your reply. We ask this in the name of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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