Jesus was asked by the Pharisees, “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. And the second is like it; Love your neighbor as yourself.” (Matthew 22:36-39)
But not long after this encounter, Jesus is at the last supper with His disciples. He had washed His disciples feet and had predicted Judas’ betrayal. With a heavy heart, He said, “Little children, I am only with you a little while longer. You will look for Me, and as I said to the Jews, so now I say to you: Where I am going you cannot come. A NEW commandment I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” (John 13:33-35)
Notice the change He made? Instead of, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” we are now told to “Love one another as He has loved us.” This is a major upgrade! Our standard of love is no longer limited to how I would love myself, but to love one another as Christ loves us. Some would argue it’s impossible to love like God, but He wouldn’t ask us to do what we are incapable of doing.
We are to love selflessly and sacrificially. It should cost us something to care for others. Whether it’s money, or our time or energy, but it should cost us something.
We are to love others humbly. No comparisons or shaming. Just a tender love that meets the other person where they’re at and shows them the love of Christ.
Forgiving others is a key way in which Christ loved us. We must exercise this on a regular basis with others. Not because it “frees us” as the world teaches, but because it mirrors the love of Christ.
May we represent Christ well in how we love each other. The world is watching.
Comments