Theme: Love of God and Love and neighbour are the keys to enter into Kingdom of Heaven
Scripture reading: Hos. 14:2-10; Ps. 80: 6,8-11, 14, 17; Mk. 12:28-34
The book of Hosea was written somewhere at the time of 750 BC. It was a time of Assyrians’ invading northern part of Israel. Prophet Hosea came from Northern Israel. Much of the writings were warnings and corrections. In his book, Hosea draws the conclusion that people have turned away from God, they must suffer punishment now. The present state of hopelessness is the result of sin. He wrote about the sinfulness of Israel in every area of their lives. But it would be wrong to conclude that Hosea is fully negative because he turned to history to remind his people that Yahweh has been their Savior every time. This is seen in his constant phrase, “I am Yahweh who has brought you out of Egypt”. He told them that they can respond to Yahweh only by being faithful to him, being obedience to his demands. This is true and faithful love ‘hesed’ which is matter of heart and mind. It is not just the exterior thing.
The Gospel text in which the scribe wanted to respond to God’s demand. He inquired about the greatest commandment to Jesus. He was the only scribe in the Gospels, who had listened to Jesus and found Him spoking the truth. Most of them were hostile to Jesus. The scribe wanted to follow God therefore he inquired about the greatest commandment. Jesus summarised the entire law into one commandment. Jesus quoted two old testament verses to give him answer. He told him Love of God is the most important commandment. (Deut 6:6) and the second was ‘love of neighbour’ (Lev. 19:18). The greatest commandment contained three important elements: a) belief in one God. b) whole hearted devotion to God and c) love of neighbour. Jesus brought both the commandments at the same level. The Scribe understood it so well that he repeated it. He observed that the love of God and love of neighbour are more important than the burnt offering and sacrifices (v. 33). This was the obedience that God/Jesus demanded from people when they turned to Him. The reward was the kingdom of God.
Jesus promised the scribe that he was not far from the kingdom of God. Prophet Hosea gave expression to the kingdom of God in his Epilogue of the book that is today’s text. He says if we repent and obey God then we shall obtain salvation. Where God’s love will fall like dew. The person shall bloom like the lily; his shoots will spread far; he will have the beauty of the olive; and the fragrance of Lebanon; he will live in my shade and will cultivate wine, etc. This is possible when we obey the commands of the Lord.
Let us pray that we may obey the commands of the Lord to love him with all our hearts, with all our soul and with all our strength. We may love our neighbour as ourselves. This is the way by which we shall enter into the Kingdom of Heaven.
Fr. Alex D’Mello
