Love is more than a feeling; it’s a command. It’s more than just an emotion we experience—it’s a force that moves us to action. When we think of love in the context of the Christian faith, we often think of Christ’s ultimate sacrifice on the cross. But love is also something we are called to practice daily in our relationships with others. How are we, as followers of Christ, living out love in a world that often feels divided, hurt, and distant?
In John 13:33-35, Jesus gives us a powerful, yet simple command—a command that defines our identity as His disciples: to love one another. As we journey through 2025, rooted in the virtues of Christ, let us take time to reflect on how the virtue of love, as demonstrated by Jesus, can be practiced in our everyday lives. How can we embody the love of Christ and let it transform not only us, but also those around us?
Scriptural Reflection
Let’s look at the words of Jesus in John 13:33-35 (NASB):
“Little children, I am with you a little longer. You will seek Me; and as I said to the Jews, now I also say to you, ‘Where I am going, you cannot come.’ A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; just as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.”
In these verses, Jesus speaks to His disciples with tenderness and urgency, knowing that His time on earth is drawing to a close. He addresses them as “little children,” highlighting His affection for them, and shares a new commandment that will serve as a hallmark of their discipleship: “that you love one another; just as I have loved you.”
This commandment was not new in the sense that love had never been emphasized before; love had been central to the teachings of the Old Testament and Jesus’ ministry. However, the uniqueness of this commandment lies in the measure of love: “just as I have loved you.” Jesus was not merely asking His disciples to love one another in a general sense, but to mirror the depth and selflessness of His love for them.
Jesus knew that the love His followers showed to one another would be the defining characteristic of their witness to the world. The love they demonstrated wasn’t to be superficial or conditional, but sacrificial, just as Christ’s love was. And this love would not only transform their relationships with one another but would also be a testimony to the world that they were truly His disciples.
Practical Application
1. Love as Christ Loved Us: Jesus set the bar high by telling His disciples to love one another as He had loved them. This means a love that is unconditional, sacrificial, and full of grace. But what does this look like in our everyday lives? It means choosing to love even when it's difficult, extending grace when others don’t deserve it, and prioritizing others' needs above our own.
Practical Step: In your interactions with others this week, intentionally practice Christ-like love by asking, “How can I serve this person?” Whether it’s a coworker, a family member, or a stranger, consider how you can show love in a way that reflects the sacrifice and humility of Christ. Small acts of service, forgiveness, and kindness speak volumes.
Scenario Example: Imagine a situation at work where a colleague’s actions have frustrated you. Instead of responding in frustration or avoiding them, take a moment to ask God for the strength to show love and understanding. You may choose to speak words of encouragement or offer a helping hand, showing grace instead of harboring bitterness.
2. Loving with Action: Love is not just a feeling we harbor in our hearts. It’s a verb, something we actively do. Jesus’ love was demonstrated through His actions—He healed the sick, served the poor, and ultimately gave His life for us. To love like Jesus means to love with action, to show that our faith is alive by what we do, not just what we say.
Practical Step: Look for opportunities to show practical love to others this week. Perhaps there’s someone in your church family who needs a meal, or maybe you can help a neighbor with their groceries. Love in action doesn’t have to be grandiose—it can be as simple as meeting someone’s need in a small but meaningful way.
Scenario Example: If you know a friend or family member is going through a hard time, don’t just say, “Let me know if you need anything.” Take the initiative to offer specific help—whether it's running errands, cooking a meal, or just spending time with them. Love is most powerful when it moves beyond words and into tangible acts.
3. Love as a Witness to the World: Jesus told His disciples that the world would know they were His followers by their love for one another. This is a call to be a light in a dark world. In the midst of a world that often seems full of division, hatred, and anger, Christians are called to stand out by showing a love that transcends all of that.
Practical Step: As you go through your day, consider how your love for others can be a witness to those around you. Whether it’s at work, at school, or in your neighborhood, how can your love be a testimony to the grace and mercy of God? Sometimes, the most powerful testimony is simply showing love to those who need it most, whether they deserve it or not.
Scenario Example: When someone insults you or disagrees with you, instead of responding in kind, show them grace. Responding with patience, kindness, and love can leave a lasting impression on others and be a powerful witness to the world that we belong to Christ.
Encouragement to Stay Rooted
We live in a world where love can often feel like a scarce resource. It can be hard to love those who hurt us, those who disagree with us, or even those we simply don’t understand. But Jesus calls us to a higher standard of love—His love. And He gives us the strength to love as He loves.
It’s easy to become discouraged when we face challenges in showing love, especially when it feels like our efforts go unnoticed or unappreciated. But remember, love is never wasted. God sees every act of love and kindness, and He will strengthen you to continue. Stay rooted in the love of Christ, and let it flow through you in every interaction.
The virtue of love is not something we can manufacture on our own. It is something that flows from our relationship with Christ, rooted in the grace and mercy He has shown us. As we seek to practice love and compassion, let us remember that our love for one another is a testimony to the world of the transformative power of God’s love. May we live out that love each day, reflecting the heart of Christ and drawing others to Him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for the immeasurable love You have shown us. Help us to love as You have loved us—sacrificially, unconditionally, and with grace. Strengthen us to love those around us, even when it’s hard, and to be a witness of Your love to the world. May our love for one another be a reflection of Your heart and a testimony of the power of the gospel. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.