Sunday, November 3, 2024

The Greatest Commandments


November 3, 1955

Dear Diary,

Today, Sister Mary Claire explained the Gospel reading to me in such a beautiful way that I just had to write it down. It was from the Gospel of Mark, Chapter 12, verses 28 to 34. Mini even seemed to listen to every word as if she, too, understood the importance of what Sister was sharing.

The story began with one of the scribes asking Jesus which commandment is the most important of all. And Jesus answered with such clarity, saying, “The first is this: Hear, O Israel! The Lord our God is Lord alone! You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength.” Sister Mary Claire’s voice grew soft yet firm as she recited these words, and I felt them settle into my heart, reminding me of how completely I should love God.

Then Jesus continued, “The second is this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these.” Sister said that loving God and loving others are two sides of the same coin, inseparable, and that if we truly love God, it should naturally lead us to care deeply for others. I could almost feel Mini pressing closer to me, as if she understood how precious these words were.

The scribe replied to Jesus, agreeing that loving God and one’s neighbor is more valuable than all sacrifices. Sister explained that Jesus saw the scribe’s sincerity and understanding, so He said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” She told me that when we understand and live these two commandments, we are drawing nearer to God’s kingdom—His presence in our lives.

When she finished, there was a peaceful silence. Even Mini seemed content, curled up by my feet as if she felt the holiness of that moment. Sister Mary Claire’s words made the Gospel feel so alive, and I want to carry this teaching in my heart—to love God with all my being and to treat others with the same kindness and care I wish for myself.

The Gospel of the Lord.  Amen.
 


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