John 13:33c–35 (ESV) —
33c … ‘Where I am going you cannot come.’ 34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another: just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another. 35 By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.”
NOTE: This passage is the night before he died, in Jewish terms, the same day, since the day started at sunset. This is not the last command Jesus gave but it is an important one for a disciple. We are to be characterized by love for one another -- the distinguishing sign of a believer.
At work or in the community, we get to know many people, but we don't love them. We should, but we reserve love for our family and our very close friends. Love means to sacrifice for another, as Jesus did for his disciples (and for the whole world). Love costs. It is selfless. And it is unusual. Finally, the example is Jesus Christ, "… just as I have love you …."
My concern probably does not rise to that level. I do care for people greatly, but I don't know if I truly love others. I could do more if I loved. I could pray more fervently. I could ask more questions. I could invite over to my home. I would do all these things if I truly loved others as Jesus loves me.
PONDER:
- What can I do to love others? Who can I invite out for a mean?
- Whom do I need to serve who is not my family?
PRAYER: Father, forgive me for my sins. I continually fall and fail you. Help me to love others like Jesus. Help me to see the opportunities. Help me to follow through.
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