Among the other incidents that take place in chapter 12, we have Jesus’ response to the question, “Which commandment is the most important of all?”, to which Jesus shares the Shema and combines it with a command from Leviticus about loving your neighbor. Love God, love others. Ever since a study we did on Sundays starting in October of 2012, our class has begun with the reciting of these verses in Mark 12 (29b to 31). All of the commandments of the Torah are summed up in these two passages. Well worth considering, meditating on, and living out. I am glad to have reached this place in our reading.
What would you like to say about chapter 12?
I like the way the Message Bible phrases Mark 12:15: “Why are you playing these games with me?” I asked the Lord to reveal any “games” I’m playing with him. Within a few minutes, he pointed out half a dozen. He used this as a fun and gentle way to convict me of things I need to work on.
Jesus continues tearing down the old order. The rebel in me loves it. First, he continues to say the old system is going away. Then he takes on the Pharisees and Sadducees. Finally he establishes himself as the authority.
This makes me question my heart and motives. I don’t want to be like the religious leaders, but I also really appreciate recognition. It’s an ongoing learning process for me to sit with the Spirit and listen to his love and affirmation rather than desire it from people.