Loving God with All of Me

Let’s dive into this scripture – the one where a lawyer asks Jesus which commandment is the most important. Jesus replies, “You must love the Lord your God with all your heart, all your soul, all your mind, and all your strength” (Mark 12:30). That’s a whole lotta lovin’, isn’t it?

First up, loving God with all our HEART is about sharing that love through our words and actions. It’s when we let our passion for God shine as we encourage and uplift others. I can’t help myself; I love sneaking the God-factor into my conversations.

Loving God with all our SOUL happens through our feelings. It’s in the empathy and kindness we show to others. When we offer a comforting word or a shoulder to cry on, we’re loving God with our soul. We’re like divine hugs as we reflect His love and compassion to those who need it most.

Now, loving God with all our MIND involves some serious brainpower. It’s about dedicating our intellect to understand His Word, thinking deeply about His teachings, and applying them in our lives. Imagine studying the Bible like it’s a treasure map – because it kinda is, leading us closer to God.

Finally, loving God with all our STRENGTH is about action. It’s using our physical abilities and energy to serve God and others. I do that at the family center and food pantry here in Austin. You might help a neighbor who needs the warmth and tenderness of a friend who cares about them.

Or it might be about our daily work with our heart dedicated to God and our actions that shout our love for Him. It’s a call to get off our comfy couches and put our faith into action.

Let’s not just talk about loving God. Let’s live it out with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength. When we do – then we’ll be reflecting His love to the world and fulfill the greatest commandment. I’m in – how about you? Amen?