Today’s verses take us back to the beginning of a well-known Jewish prayer called The Shema. This prayer is an affirmation of God’s singularity, which is traditionally read by observant Jews. The concept of one true God that is all-powerful, infinite and limitless. The passage that follows details the way in which our faith should be lived: Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength, and teach this to your children. 

The definition of the word Shema is to hear or pay attention, as we mature in our walk with Jesus, the first concept we learn is to hear God's word. But not only do we learn to hear God's words, but we learn to obey His word. In our obedience we learn to exercise the power of faith which is so beneficial to us all and pleasing to our Creator.

Also, we find that God exemplifies the importance of repeating this commandment to future generations. Keeping the concept of God's infinite Sovereignty and Holiness for all mankind. 

Learning to keep God first in our hearts should be of the utmost importance to all believers. In Matthew 22:37-40, Jesus reminds his generation of the importance of upholding this commandment Not only loving God but extending this love that you have for God to the people that surround you, calling this act of love the first and greatest commandment ever given. This lesson teaches us that a right relationship with God is the beginning of everything and produces a right relationship with others, because loving God and others sums up God’s will for all humanity. Psalm 119:93 says,” I will never forget Your precepts, for by them You have given me life."

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for giving me the opportunity of having a deep meaningful relationship with You. I repent for the times I have taken for granted what You have offered so willingly through Jesus our Messiah. May I be aware of Your calling to be in right standing with You, Lord. I recognize I have fallen short and I eagerly express my willingness to surrender everything that is getting in the way of keeping You first in my heart. I pray for opportunities to extend Your love and compassion to my peers and family members that have not had the opportunity to know You, and I thank You for this privilege of being the light of Jesus to exemplify your goodness, day after day. In the Name of Jesus, I pray. Amen.

God wants a relationship with you. He wants you to love Him, to passionately and righteously pursue His glory. So, what does loving God look like to you? What does this commandment require?

It requires all your heart, soul, and mind, in other words, your entire being. Take time every day to pursue God, with intentionality. Let God know how important He is to you. Take the time to teach your children the importance of having their own unique relationship with God.