A New Covenant

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. By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:34-35

In the Gospel of John, Jesus imparts a new commandment to His disciples. This commandment is not an additional burden or a set of regulations but rather a call to embody the very essence of His teachings. His commandment is not limited to loving those who are easy to love or share the same beliefs as us. He challenges us to love as He loved us—selflessly, unconditionally, and sacrificially. His love knows no bounds, and He expects us to extend that same love to everyone we encounter. This love can change lives and heal broken hearts by pointing others to Jesus Christ.

Love is not merely an emotion or a fleeting feeling; it is an active choice we make daily. It requires us to set aside our own desires, preferences, and prejudices to care for others genuinely. It calls us to be compassionate, forgiving, and understanding. Jesus Himself embodied this love when He humbly washed His disciples' feet, demonstrating that love serves others without regard for status or position.

When we love one another as Jesus commanded, something incredible happens. The world takes notice. Jesus says, "By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another." Our love becomes a testimony, a witness to the transforming power of Christ in our lives, and a beacon of hope in a world that often lacks love and compassion.

Dear Church, let us allow the love of Christ to flow through us, transforming the lives of those around us and glorifying God.