Our scripture this week is Matthew 22:34-46.
Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?” Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’ All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them, “What do you think about the Messiah? Whose son is he?” “The son of David,” they replied. He said to them, “How is it then that David, speaking by the Spirit, calls him ‘Lord’? For he says, “‘The Lord said to my Lord: “Sit at my right hand until I put your enemies under your feet.”’ If then David calls him ‘Lord,’ how can he be his son?” No one could say a word in reply, and from that day on no one dared to ask him any more questions.
Jesus has been questioned by several groups of religious leaders, all trying to catch Him on a point of law or scripture. They ask a variety of things and while the questions are faith related, they are not asking out of faith but malice. Although Jesus wants us to ask about things we don’t understand, He knows our hearts and the intent of our questions.
The Pharisees are only asking to further their own interests and protect their position in the community. It is a selfish and fearful motive that drives them. They don’t really want to know what Jesus has to say!
When we ask sincerely, wanting to know more and better apply the lesson, Jesus responds and blesses our efforts. His teaching is for everyone but we must want to accept it and make it part of our lives. Knowing what Jesus says is important; knowing Jesus is essential!
Loving Lord, we come to You in our unknowing and You give us strength through wisdom. Help us to use the truth You bring, to share Your love with all the world. Amen.