The Greatest Commandment: Love That Becomes Life
Dear Parishioners,
In this Sunday’s Gospel (Matthew 22:34–40), Jesus is asked a fundamental question: “Teacher, which commandment in the law is the greatest?” His answer is both simple and profound: “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.” Then He adds, “You shall love your neighbour as yourself.”
Jesus brings the whole of our faith into these two commandments. Love of God and love of neighbour are inseparable. Our prayers, participation in the Eucharist, devotion to the Blessed Mother, and observance of the commandments must lead us to a deeper love for one another. Otherwise, we risk practising our faith outwardly without allowing it to transform our hearts.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches: “The Decalogue must be interpreted in light of this twofold yet single commandment of love, the fullness of the Law” (CCC, 2055). In other words, love is not simply one aspect of Christian life; it is the very heart of it.
But what does it mean to love our neighbour? It means more than being friendly to those who are kind to us or helping those whom we know and appreciate. Christian love challenges us to forgive those who hurt us, reach out to the lonely, care for the poor, welcome newcomers, and respect those whose backgrounds, opinions, or circumstances differ from ours. It calls us to recognize the dignity of every person as a child of God.
In Fratelli Tutti, Pope Francis reminds us of a love that “allows us to acknowledge, appreciate and love each person, regardless of physical proximity, regardless of where he or she was born or lives” (no. 1). This is especially meaningful in a world where migrants, refugees, and vulnerable people often experience rejection and isolation. We may not be able to solve every problem, but we can make a difference through a welcoming word, a helping hand, and a compassionate heart.
As a parish family, let us ask ourselves: Does every person who enters St. Mary’s experience something of Christ’s love? Do the lonely find friendship, the newcomers find welcome, and those who are struggling find understanding?
The Eucharist nourishes us with Christ’s love so that we can share that love with others. When we receive the Lord at the altar, we are called to recognize His presence beyond the church doors—in our families, workplaces, neighbourhoods, and especially among those who are forgotten.
May we never separate our love for God from our love for one another. Let us make the greatest commandment the guiding principle of our lives, so that St. Mary’s Parish may continue to grow as a community of faith, compassion, and genuine Christian love.
With prayers and blessings,
