Loving God with ALL...

Last week we saw how God shows us how to love: unconditional, unwavering, and unceasing. How do we respond, where do we start? Jesus was clear when he affirmed the Jewish affirmation of faith, the Shema, “Love the Lord your God with all…” Spiritual Life vs. Financial Life: What is it going to cost me? Spiritual Life vs. Personal Life: Can I love God and have fun? Spiritual Life vs. Social Life: Can I keep my friends? Spiritual Life vs. Vocational Life: How does it affect my work? Spiritual Life vs. Educational Life: Do I have to quit learning to love God? Spiritual Life vs. Family Life: Is God welcome in my home? Spiritual Life vs. Sex Life: Does my relationship with God stop at the bedroom? Spiritual Life vs. Emotional Life: Does God rule my emotions? Why should we love God first with ALL? 1. God’s handprints are on you. Understanding the “imago dei” or the image of God. This was written long before mirrors, so the understanding of image did not mean reflection, but referred more to imprint. We know God cares because He did not simply speak humanity into existence like he did with all the rest of creation, he got intimately involved, God got His hands dirty because we are worth it, even when we don’t act like it. 2. God’s desire is for you. 3. God’s heart breaks for you. Where are you in your love relationship with God? Healthy? Hurting? Hiding? Here is the tough truth of the day: Whatever you hide from God’s presence is where you put yourself in God’s place.