Scripture: The scribe said to him, "Well said, teacher. You are right in saying, 'He is One and there is no other than he.' And 'to love him with all your heart, with all your understanding, with all your strength, and to love your neighbor as yourself' is worth more than all burnt offerings and sacrifices." And when Jesus saw that (he) answered with understanding, he said to him, "You are not far from the kingdom of God." And no one dared to ask him any more questions. 35 Mark 12:32-34

Prayer: I guess I would have been silent also as I thought about the ramifications of the scribe's answer. Let me reflect upon that answer in all aspects of my life.

Response: Isn't it noteworthy when without warning pearls of wisdom are offered sometimes from an unlikely quarter? In this particular case, the silence was like applause for the answer. But think of the impact of Jesus' words. He didn't simply say good answer; hurrah, someone gets it. Rather Jesus encouraged the scribe to continue on the path he was treading.

Consider why the rest had no further question. Do you think that they were busy comparing their own journey to the scribe's, or puzzling about what Jesus meant by the kingdom of God? Were they silent for fear that would become known by their follow on questions as they had never been known previously?

These verses remind you that the time for subterfuge is passed. Don't walk away – so to speak – but meet the Lord as you are in prayer. Perhaps, you should read over the two commandments so you won't have to feign ignorance. So the message is quite simple – learn to love the Lord deeply and exhibit that understanding and love in how you interact with and serve those around you.