Devotion:
For an audio version of this devotion, click here.
Read John 13:34-35.
The setting for these two verses is Jesus’ last supper with his apostles. He had washed their feet as they gathered and before the meal, showing them and us that we are to serve in humility. He had predicted that one of the apostles would betray him, leading to his arrest and crucifixion; and he was about to announce that Peter would deny him that very evening. Sandwiched in among those proclamations comes today’s verses in which Jesus gives us “a new command.” It is a simple one, but it is not an easy one…to love one another as Jesus had loved his apostles.
Then he makes a powerful statement about our personal witness, that others will know we are disciples of Christ by the love we show one another (that is, not by the crosses we wear around our necks, our catchy bumper stickers, or any other outward symbols). People will know we are Christian when we lift up the marginalized, open our hearts and checkbooks to help those who are in need, and do other acts of service and kindness in a spirit of love for one another.
Personal Worship Option:
Pray with me, please: Gracious God, help me to love others. I most need your help in loving those who are not lovable, those who upset me, or even push back on my attempts to love them. Help my heart to be more like the heart of your Son, Jesus Christ. Amen!
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