In Sunday’s Gospel reading from John 13:31-35, Jesus gave us a new commandment – to love one another. “Just as I have loved you, you also should love one another,” he said. But what makes this commandment new? Love itself isn’t new. Even in the Old Testament, God commanded, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and strength.” The difference? Jesus asks us to love as he has loved us: sacrificially, unconditionally and practically.
1. Love is Sacrificial
Jesus’s love was embodied in his ultimate sacrifice on the cross. He gave up everything for us, even his life, so we could experience a full relationship with God. His love demonstrates that true love often requires giving of ourselves, whether it’s time, energy or resources.
Reflect: How can you show sacrificial love in your everyday life? What could you give up to serve someone else?
2. Love is Unconditional
Jesus didn’t wait for us to earn his love or prove our worth. Even in our brokenness, he loves us unconditionally, without judgment. This is the same kind of love we are called to show others – those who are similar to us, those who are different, those who may disappoint us and even those who hurt us. It is a love rooted in grace and forgiveness, a love that reflects his example.
Reflect: Who in your life needs to experience unconditional love? How can you offer grace to someone who has fallen short?
3. Love is Practical
Love isn’t just a feeling or beautiful words; it’s action. Whether it’s the parent caring for a sick child, the volunteer stocking shelves at a food bank or the friend offering a listening ear, love shines brightest through practical acts of kindness. Jesus’ love was profoundly practical, extending compassion to the suffering, the marginalized and even those who strayed from his teachings. He walked alongside them, addressing their needs with grace and humility.
Reflect: What practical steps can you take this week to care for someone in need?
At the core of Christian faith lies one foundational truth – love is everything. Without love, our actions, worship and gatherings are meaningless. Every faith community must be places where people feel the boundless love of God in every interaction.
This week, reflect deeply on how you can love as Jesus loves in ways that are sacrificial, unconditional and practical and embody love as a lifestyle.
Reflections for Today:
• How can your love become more like Jesus’s love?
• In what ways could love be more visible within First Lutheran Church? How can you contribute to bringing this vision to life?
• What small act of love can you offer to someone who feels unseen?
