By Becky Savage

Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous works among all the peoples.

[Sermon and Class Helps Year C: New Testament (with focus on the Gospel according to Luke), Herald Publishing House, 2015, p. 77]

The instruction to love one another is the primary commandment in the Gospel of John. The writer heightens the importance of the command by placing it at the end of Jesus’ ministry.

Jesus embodied God’s love throughout his ministry. Jesus knows of his approaching death. He urgently needs the disciples to understand they are expected to show the same mutual loving relationships in their lives and ministry. Jesus modeled the type of love he expects of them when he washed the disciples’ feet. Humble, servant ministry glorifies God’s loving relationship with all people.

Jesus does not lessen the call to love one’s neighbors; he expands on it. Jesus expects the disciples’ love for one another to equal the loving relationship between God and Jesus. He tells the disciples how to measure their success. People will recognize Jesus’ disciples by the way they are in loving relationship with one another. While loving one’s neighbors is important, it is essential to love one’s companions. This may seem a simple distinction; however, loving people we know well can be difficult. Neighbors are more distant than friends, colleagues, church members, or family. It is often more difficult to love the ones we know well. We know them at their best and at their worst. We know their faults and their giftedness.

The commandment to love one another has implications for us as disciples and for our church community. Imagine if we could genuinely live this love commandment. Invite People to Christ could happen as people see our loving relationships with one another. People might want to know more about this group of people who serve with gracious servant ministries. Our mission statement would be obvious in how we live daily. We would proclaim Jesus Christ through our loving relationships with one another and with those we meet. Our communities would be full of joy, hope, love, and peace.

“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35).

Prayer Phrase

“We love because God first loved us” (1 John 4:19).

Spiritual Practice

Sea of Light

Quiet and center yourself. Ask for God’s healing and guidance as you enter this time of prayerful presence. Close your eyes, breathing deeply and calmly. Imagine you are floating in a beautiful sea of light that rises and falls with each cycle of your breath. The golden light of this sea buoys you up, so you float effortlessly. Waves of light carry and wash over you, bringing wholeness and peace. Rest in the sea of God’s love; then offer a prayer of gratitude.

Today’s Prayer for Peace

Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.