Stop! I Say

The story is told of a preacher who often did very dramatic things to hold the congregation’s attention. For example, once when it came time to say the Lord’s Prayer, he uttered the first two words-“Our Father”-then shouted “Stop!” at the top if his voice. He then immediately proceeded to preach a sermon on why it is manifestly dishonest for people to go on with the Lord’s Prayer if they are not willing to face the implications of the first two words.

Today’s Gospel Text contains a phrase we never should go beyond until we’re sure we understand its implications. The phrase reads, “You shall love the Lord your God.” “Stop!” I say. Let’s stop right here and drink it in. What are the implications of this commandment? How do we manifest our love for God? We communicate this to Him in the experience of prayer, of course. We position ourselves in God’s presence and we give thanks that He is a loving God.…