I am your friend, Dr. Charles Apoki, here to share some thoughts on the Shema, a Hebrew word spelled S-H-E-M-A. This word is central to one of the greatest teachings Jesus shared. In Matthew 22:34-40, when asked about the most important commandment, Jesus replied, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart, soul, and mind,” and added a second commandment to “love your neighbor as yourself.” These two commands encompass all that the Law and the Prophets teach. This, my friends, is the master key to living a fulfilling life.
The Foundation of the Shema
For many Christians, especially in Africa, prayer is viewed as the ultimate spiritual tool. We often hear, “Prayer is the key, the master key.” But look closer, and you’ll see that Jesus’s life didn’t start with prayer alone; it started with responsibility. Jesus said, “Don’t you know I should be about my Father’s business?” He served with all His heart, mind, and strength, embracing obedience, wisdom, and growth.
The Shema calls for us to love God in totality—not just through rituals, but with our entire being, with intentionality. This kind of love isn’t forced; it’s spontaneous, joyful, and grateful. No one coerced Jesus to take up the cross. His love was genuine, passionate, and willing..
A Call for Reflection and Genuine Love
If we truly love God, we will continuously evaluate our relationship with Him. Loving God with everything—heart, mind, soul, and strength—demands that we align our actions with our faith. We must not let anyone dictate this love; it should flow naturally, just as a child clings to their mother out of trust and appreciation.
Reflecting on my life, I see how God’s grace has sustained me. I never studied at Bible school, yet I taught at Bible colleges. I have spoken at universities on entrepreneurship without formally studying it. My journey has been one of grace, leading me to serve with everything I have, whether in missionary work across Africa, establishing schools, or sharing the Word at conferences around the world.
Loving Your Neighbor—and Yourself
Loving others as you love yourself is central to the Shema. It begins with self-respect and recognizing the importance of investing in ourselves and in future generations. We cannot serve others from a place of lack. Scripture shows that if we love our neighbors, we won’t steal, lie, or covet. But remember: this love must be balanced. It does not mean sacrificing your own wellbeing or that of your family.
One of the most significant investments I’ve made is in my children. For years, I invested in their education and personal growth, preparing them to be better versions of myself. Seeing my children and grandchildren thrive worldwide confirms the importance of creating a legacy that outlives us.
Self-Preservation Is Not Selfishness
To effectively help others, you must preserve yourself. You are no good to anyone if you’re constantly exhausted, ill, or financially drained. If you spend your first paycheck giving away money you don’t have, that’s neither generosity nor wisdom; it’s mismanagement. Take care of your health, get enough rest, and make wise financial decisions.
In ministry, I’ve seen many pastors who didn’t take care of their wellbeing. They wear themselves out and rely on church members to support them later in life, only to find they are left without. Take care of yourself, and let this preparation serve as a model for others.
Be Wise, Be Strategic
As I often say, “Manufacture yourself before you market yourself.” Take time to build your life, educate yourself, and develop your skills. Then, with a strong foundation, you can genuinely contribute to others’ lives and make an impact. Remember, don’t take on battles God hasn’t sent you to fight, and don’t preach messages that don’t align with your purpose.
Let’s not sacrifice our health, wealth, or wellbeing on altars of misguided sacrifices or societal expectations. Love God, love others, and love yourself enough to preserve what He has entrusted to you.
In conclusion, the Shema teaches us that love is the foundation of a balanced, impactful life. When we love God with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength, and extend this love to our neighbors as ourselves, we honor God’s ultimate commandment.
