John 13:34-35
But I am giving you a new command. You must love each other, just as I have loved you. If you love each other, everyone will know that you are my disciples.
Scripture taken from the Contemporary English Version © 1991,1992, 1995 by American Bible Society, Used by Permission.
Here’s a challenge for you… think about one of your closest friends, and quickly jot down ten words that describe him/her. Did you choose “loving” as one of your words? What about “Godly” or “faithful” – as in filled with faith in Christ? Now think about your own life. How would others describe you? Are you known as a disciple of Christ? Is this because you TELL people this is who you are… or does your life exemplify the love of Christ on its own merits?
This commandment is incredibly encompassing. Think long and hard about all of the ways Jesus loves you. Consider all of the amazing sacrifices He made on your behalf… how He suffered physically, mentally and emotionally for you. Think about how you “love” others. Does it come anywhere close by comparison? Shouldn’t it?
In many – if not all – of our current relationships, many of us operate in what could only be considered “puppy love” at best. We are more concerned with what’s in it for us than the other guy… and our love is anything but unconditional. We certainly do not love others as Jesus loves us! But we can change this… and today is a great day to begin. Won’t you start the process to love more purely… to be more like Jesus in every way? Isn’t this the perfect day to ask God to get you started in the right direction? Do you love others as Jesus loves you… and do they know you as one of His disciples? What are you doing to change this?
©2012 Debbie Robus
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