Devotion:
Read John 15:9-12.
We often hear the last verse of this passage quoted in lessons or talks. It seems impossible to pull it out of context. Despite the simplicity of Christ’s statement and the brevity of his instruction, the command Christ gave his disciples, just before his walk to the cross, is one of the most profound pronouncements ever. Christ asks us to continue in his love, and he tells us how by keeping his commandments. Then he says the reason he is asking us to do these things is so that we can retain his joy, and be full of joy. He tells us that his commandment is to love each other the way that he loves us.
This passage in its entirety seems to paint a different picture than taking any of the verses alone. Together, they seem to say that the whole point of obedience and commandments is so that we can be filled with love and joy. I like that image. The commandment that will lead to these things is to love each other, not the way we usually love each other, which is sporadic, inconsistent, and usually biased, but the way *he* loves us, which is always, consistent, and all-encompassing. Today, let's try to continue in God's love by loving each other and showing it to all.
Personal Worship Option:
Dear God, thank you for the love you put in our hearts by way of your Son, Jesus. May we love like you, because you first loved us. Help us to show your unconditional love to others. Amen.
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