Advent Reflection: Dec. 12, 2017

Posted on by Shadyside Presbyterian Church

Seasonal Devotions

Scripture: Matthew 22:32–46  (Today’s Readings)

When the Pharisees asked Jesus what the greatest commandment in the Law is, Jesus replied saying, “ ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and all your mind.’ . . . The second commandment is ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ ” We need to remember this commandment now more than ever, when it seems we are so focused on who is right, who is wrong, and who is more deserving of our love. Really, we just need to love one another. During times of devastation, I see God when people come from all over the world to help the people devastated by hurricanes and earthquakes; it seems our hate and differences get put on pause. My Advent prayer is that we can take the love we feel for each other during times of devastation to remind us to love each other always.

Prayer: Loving God, focus our hearts on You this Advent season so we may fulfill Your command and love You with all of our heart, soul, and mind, and therefore love our neighbors, as well.  Amen.

Contributed by Audrey L. H. Werling

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Artwork: Detail of No Between © Jan L. Richardson. janrichardson.com. Inspired by Isaiah 64:1: “O that You would tear open the heavens and come down … .”