"There is no other commandment greater than these."

Liturgical readings


Deuteronomy 6:2-6
Psalm 18
Hebrews 7:23-28
Mark 12:28b-34

"There is no other commandment greater than these."


A scribe went to ask Jesus about God's commandments. Jesus replied with two commandments that summarizes what can be found in the Ten Commandments: first, to love God with our whole being (1st to 3rd commandments); and second, to love our neighbor as ourselves (4th to 10th commandments). Then Jesus added, "there is no other commandment greater than these." The scribe was pleased with the answer of Jesus, and confirmed that following these commandments "is worth more than any burnt offering or sacrifice."


To love God with all our heart, soul, mind and strength. And to love our neighbor as ourselves. These two commandments contain the Christian ethic to cultivate reverence and respect for God, and all He has created - including the environment. We know if we are obeying God just by examining what we have done, what we are doing, and how we treat others and ourselves. If we fill our mind, heart, and soul with God's Word and the Sacraments, then we will have the strength to do good and to continue to do what is right. Only when we patiently endure to do God's will can we receive His promise of eternal life.


We know by experience that following God's commandments is not always easy. But practicing a devotion helps. And a popular devotion that all Catholics can make is a devotion to Mary. St. Louis-Marie de Montfort (member of the French school of spirituality which includes St. Jean-Baptiste de la Salle, St. Francis de Sales, and St. John Eudes) advices this devotion to Mary because:


The Blessed Virgin prevents virtues from fading away ... merits from being wasted ... and graces from being lost; she prevents devils from doing harm (True Devotion to Mary #174)

Together with a devotion to the Eucharist, both can anchor us well to God in times of trial and adversity. Through these devotions, the Lord will sustain us and keep our souls rooted in His Life and teachings, whether it be in adversity or prosperity.