Read John 13:34-35

These words are the heartbeat of the Christian life. In one simple command, Jesus sums up the mission of His people: “Love one another.” Not the easy kind of love — not polite affection or occasional kindness — but as I have loved you. That changes everything.

Jesus doesn’t just tell us what to do; He shows us how. His love is sacrificial, steadfast, and unconditional. It crosses every boundary and bridges every divide. It doesn’t wait for others to get it right first. It moves first. It forgives first. It serves first. And that’s how the world will know who belongs to Jesus — not by our words, music, or building, but by our love.

This “new” command wasn’t new in concept — love had always been central to God’s heart. What was new was the measure of that love: “as I have loved you.” Jesus Himself becomes the standard. This is no small thing. It means our love should be patterned after His — generous, patient, forgiving, and costly. It’s love that breaks cycles of anger and draws people to the grace of God.

When believers love each other this way, something holy happens. The invisible God becomes visible through us. Our love becomes the evidence of Christ’s presence in the world. And in a culture marked by division, hostility, and self-interest, nothing is more countercultural — or more powerful — than a community shaped by the self-giving love of Jesus.

We must remember that this love isn’t something we can manufacture on our own. It flows from being “together in Christ.” The more you abide in His love, the more it overflows from you to others. As you stay close to Him, His love reshapes you — helping you forgive, encourage, and build others up. In a very real sense, love becomes your testimony.

Reflection Questions:

• What does it mean to love “as Jesus has loved you”?
  
• How does this command define what it means to be a disciple?
  
• What are some barriers that keep Christians from loving one another well?
  
• How can your love for others point people to Jesus this week?

Journaling Prompt:

Write about someone who has shown you the love of Christ in tangible ways. Reflect on how that experience helps you understand Jesus’ command to love one another.