Love, The Greatest Work

Bible Reading Today: Matthew 22, Mark 12

Mark 12:33 And to love him with all the heart, and with all the understanding, and with all the soul, and with all the strength, and to love his neighbour as himself, is more than all whole burnt offerings and sacrifices.

There are so many things we try to do to earn the approval of others...so many ways in which we try to impress people...and there are people out there who have a "number." They have something, or an amount of something, which will truly make a great impression on them, and many of us are willing to pay the price. Sometimes, it's a boss. Or a parent. Or someone you want to marry....we are willing to sacrifice generously for them. But God's requirement for us is just the opposite-there's no "burnt offering" or sacrifice great enough to earn His approval, or His love. There is no measurement of "work" we can do to earn a place in Heaven. In reality, and simplicity, we must trade love for love. It's not tangible, yet it's transferable from earth to Heavenly places. It's not much, but it's the greatest gift we can give. It's simple, yet profound. Yes, we can do many things out of love...but sometimes just showing love & praise to God speaks louder than coins dropping into an offering plate (although financial giving from the heart is an act of love and faith!). We do much OUT OF love, but God just wants to be sure we are IN LOVE with Him...spending time in His Word, not just fulfilling a role in ministry. Praying to Jesus from our hearts, not just talking to other people about Him. Love itself is absolutely the greatest work, greatest gift, and greatest treasure which transcends our time here on this earth-it's the best thing we can receive from God, and the best thing we can give!