THE BIG ONE
JOHN 13:34-35
JOHN 13:34-35 NKJ
34 A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. 35 By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."
OBSERVATION:
One of the key distinguishing characteristics of those who follow Christ is their love. Have you ever noticed that a number of first responders to catastrophic events are Christian organizations? It's the Christians who show up with love and aid and stay to make a difference in the lives of those who are hurting. And I have noticed that rarely are these Christian organizations having to share space with atheist groups.
In our verses for today, we see part of the picture. Part of the reason that Christians are quick to respond and give. When Jesus commanded us to love one another, He was not dictating an impossible task. Of course, He knew something the disciples did not know at the time. He knew their, and our nature would be changed after the resurrection. When someone believes in the risen Lord, they become a new creation. Old things pass away; all things become new. These new things are new things, spiritually speaking. Part of our new spiritual nature is love. Not the romantic stars in the eyes love, but rather the God kind of love that seeks and does what is best for others.
And Jesus said this was His new commandment. Notice He did not call this our best option or a good idea. He says this is my commandment. And Jesus said it, love, would be the one thing that would indicate and identify His disciples. With all the things we associate with Christianity, love is the big one, the one that shines the brightest.
APPLICATION:
One of the best ways to clarify what this love, we are commanded to exhibit, looks like is to read 1 Corinthians 13:4-8. This is the scripture passage Joy taped up all over our house. She says she needed a constant reminder because of living with me. It helped us both in major ways.
If we take Jesus and His words seriously, we cannot ignore this commandment. And if we keep this command, we will be keeping all of the ten commandments. In Romans 13:8-10, Paul, writing by inspiration of the Holy Spirit, says, "he who loves another has fulfilled the law."
So this year, purpose in your heart to walk with God and walk in His ways. He is love, and His ways will always follow love's path.
PRAYER:
Dear Lord, thank You for loving me and giving me the capacity to love others. It's one of the best, if not the best way, I can be Your disciple.