We humans love our checklists. There's something satisfying about marking tasks complete—even in our spiritual lives. Attended church? Check. Read a Bible verse? Check. Said a quick prayer? Check. But imagine if we approached our closest relationships this way. "Spoke to spouse today. Check." "Acknowledged child's existence. Check." Such a mechanical approach would never sustain a meaningful relationship—so why do we think it works with God? Loving God isn't about religious performance or spiritual box-checking. It's about genuine connection. Think about your closest relationships—they're characterized by quality time, meaningful conversation, shared experiences, and growing understanding. Our relationship with God deserves the same intentionality. When we reduce our faith to a series of tasks, we miss the heart of what Jesus identified as the greatest commandment: to love God with everything we are. This love isn't optional or merely emotional—it's a command that requires our whole being. Today, set aside your spiritual checklist. Instead, approach God as someone you're eager to know more deeply. Speak to Him honestly. Listen attentively. Enjoy His presence without an agenda. You might be surprised how refreshing relationship feels compared to religion.

Bible Verse

"One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: 'Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?' Jesus replied: 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment.'" - Matthew 22:34-37

Reflection Question

What aspects of your relationship with God have become mere checkboxes, and how might you transform these into opportunities for genuine connection?

Quote "Loving God requires more than checking boxes. Now, as Christians, we're really good at checking boxes. Went to church today. Check. Sang a song. Check. Raised my hand. Check. Read a scripture. Today I read my daily scripture. Check. We're really good at checking boxes."

Prayer

Father, forgive me for reducing our relationship to religious routines. Awaken my heart to the joy of knowing You. Help me move beyond spiritual box-checking to authentic relationship. Renew my love for You so that spending time with You becomes a delight rather than a duty. Amen.