Good morning and welcome to the Oblate time of prayer and reflection today by Padraig Corcoran, a member of the Oblate Mission with Youth Team. 

In today's Gospel, a scribe asks Jesus, "Which is the first of all the commandments?" Jesus answers by placing love at the very centre of faith: "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength," and "You shall love your neighbour as yourself."

These commandments are inseparable. Our love for God is expressed in the way we treat others, and our care for others flows from our relationship with God. Jesus teaches us that faith is not simply about religious observance; it is about allowing God's love to shape every aspect of our lives.

The scribe recognizes the truth of Jesus' words, and Jesus tells him, "You are not far from the Kingdom of God." The Kingdom is not merely a future promise; it is already present whenever people choose love over selfishness, mercy over judgment, and service over self-interest.

Today, on this 4th day of June, we are invited to examine our hearts. Are we growing in love for God through prayer and trust? Are we showing love to our neighbours through kindness, patience, and compassion?

Lord, teach us to love You with our whole being and to love others as You love us. May our words and actions today bring us closer to Your Kingdom. Amen.