https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1Cq6qPGf5w/2nd Service Sermon of November 2025 at C.C.C APATA IGBALA EMI CATHEDRAL IBEJU - LEKKI LG [ELEMORO] > **Title: "Loving God and One Another"** **Introduction:** Beloved, today we gather to reflect on two profound passages: *Deuteronomy 6:1-9 and *Matthew 22:34-40. Both scriptures remind us of the essence of our faith: love—love for God and love for one another. In a world that often feels fragmented and chaotic, these verses remind us of the heart of what it means to be followers of Christ. **Body:** In Deuteronomy, Moses speaks to the Israelites, urging them to remember the commandments of God. He implores them to love the Lord with all their heart, soul, and strength. This is not merely a suggestion, but a command to embed God’s words in their lives, to teach them diligently to their children, and to discuss them in everyday moments. It’s about creating a culture of faith that permeates our homes and our lives. Imagine what our world would look like if we truly lived out this command. If we not only loved God with our entire being but also shared that love with our children and community. Love is a powerful force; it changes hearts, transforms lives, and builds bridges where there seem to be none. In Matthew, Jesus is approached by a teacher of the law who asks Him about the greatest commandment. Jesus responds with clarity and conviction: "Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself." Here, Jesus emphasizes that love is not an isolated act but a dual command that intertwines our relationship with God and our relationship with others. Short Lesson on 1 Corinthians 13:1 – “Love Above All” The verse says: > “If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal.” Lesson: Paul teaches that no matter how gifted, talented, or eloquent we are, without love, our efforts are empty noise. Love gives value, meaning, and purpose to all we do. Speaking beautifully, praying powerfully, or working hard means nothing if it’s not motivated by genuine love for God and others. Key Point: Love is the heartbeat of every true Christian act. It transforms ability into ministry and words into blessings. Reflection: Let everything you do today—your words, work, and service—flow from love, because without love, even greatness loses its worth. Prayer: Lord, fill my heart with Your love, so that in all I say and do, Your love may be seen and felt through me. Amen. **Application:** Dear friends, how do we embody this love in our daily lives? Loving God means prioritizing Him in our thoughts, actions, and decisions. It means seeking Him in prayer, in worship, and in the quiet moments of reflection. But equally, it means loving our neighbors—those who are close to us and those who are far away. Consider your own life. How can you show love to those around you? Maybe it’s through a simple act of kindness, a listening ear, or a helping hand. Perhaps it’s forgiving someone who has hurt you or reaching out to someone in need. **Conclusion:** As we leave today, let us carry these commandments in our hearts. Let us strive to love God wholeheartedly and to extend that love to everyone we encounter. Remember, love is not just a feeling; it is an action. Let our lives be a testament to the love of God, shining brightly in a world that desperately needs it. Let us pray: Lord, help us to love You with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbors as ourselves. May our lives reflect Your love, bringing hope and healing to those around us. Amen. You are all invited to our ADULT HARVEST THANKSGIVING SERVICE. Coming up on the 16th of November 2025. LOVE OF GOD WILL MANIFEST IN YOUR LIFE. Beloud