Posted by The WORD in other words (2009) by Fr Joseph Suson SVD – University of San Carlos, Cebu
Friday 3rd Week of Lent
Most encounters between Jesus and his adversaries in the Gospel have always been controversial. These incidents have caused frustration for the ruling local power but an inspiration for the throng of people who listen to him. Killing of the young charismatic teacher from Galilee has become an imperative solution. The sooner the better. The Galilean has already attracted people particularly the majority but marginalized sector in society. Tolerating dissent to reach towards the critical mass level would upset the prevailing power structure and may change radically the political and religious system. This may dispel disaster for the Jewish nation because the Romans, without hesitation, would surely use destructive power to the fullest to keep them imperial integrity. This is from a political vantage point.
However, the encounter mentioned in today’s Gospel is not controversial but a friendly dialogue between Jesus and the scribes. The issue is fundamental to the life of the Jews. As the Lord of Host is One, so must the people’s undivided response be. Jesus reiterated the Law that binds all Jewish practice and belief. The commandment to love fellow Jews is extended to the resident aliens as well (Lev 19,18). However, the combination of these two commandments into one single moral principle is attributable to Jesus alone.
The friendly encounter has spun a new dimension in God’s teaching about love. Jesus said: Love God with all your heart, soul and mind. But do not stop from there. To love God, you must love your neighbor as well and you must love them as yourself. The scribe add a layer of wisdom when he said to love God and our neighbors is more than any ritual sacrifice that a pious Jew would render.
This Gospel is so relevant to us today. Our world must have been peaceful and progressive beyond any imagination had the two commandments of the Lord been applied and lived by those who follow the teachings of Jesus. As the hymn goes: “People know we are Christians by our love.”
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