The Absolute Priority of Love - 21 August 2026

I reflect on a Gospel passage about the greatest commandment while addressing a Friday-morning audience. He emphasizes that choosing to love God with one’s entire heart, soul, and mind is an absolute necessity for true happiness, not a secondary concern. The reflection warns against practical atheism, where believers acknowledge a higher power but fail to give Him daily attention or priority over worldly affairs. It also observes a decline in religious practice within the Philippines, noting that many citizens treat their faith as a background element rather than a living commitment. Ultimately, I explain that the acid test for divine love is the way one treats their neighbor in need. He concludes by urging listeners to examine their lives to ensure they are not prioritizing secular culture over their spiritual obligations.