During the Advent season we often hear about Love - God's Love. Indeed, the Advent itself is that of the Son of God becoming man, to save a lost world, through God's grace, and love.
However, in focusing on the gift of God's love to us we can sometimes set our sights inward, rather than on Him whom we have been called to love. Consider the words of Jesus, himself,
37 And he said to him, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. 38 This is the great and first commandment. (Matthew 22:37-38 ESV)
Have you ever stopped to think about this passage from scripture?
All people, everywhere and at every time, are commanded to love God.
In our culture of peace and prosperity I think we have become a bit too introspective, at times. Our narcissism has fueled an apetite for self-fulfillment, self-awareness, etc., in which we seek out that which brings us the most personal satisfaction (sometimes without realizing it). While it is right and honorable to remember the birth of our Savior, especially recognizing the love He has for us, are we sometimes guilty of forgetting that we are commanded, first and foremost, to love God?
This Advent season, let's make it a point to strive to avoid anything that might distract us from the greatest commandment.
Happy Advent!
images © A. R. Lopez
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