Memory Verse of the Month: John 13:34
"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, just as I have loved you, that you also love one another." – John 13:34 (NASB)
Love—The Root of Our Faith
Beloved, have you ever considered how a tree stands firm through storms and seasons? It is not the branches or the leaves that hold it steady, but the roots—deep, unseen, yet full of life. In the same way, love is the root of our faith. Without it, our spiritual lives become dry and fragile, unable to withstand trials. But when we are rooted in love, we stand strong, nourished by God’s presence, and bear fruit that blesses others.
Our 2025 theme, "Rooted in Virtues: A Year of Spiritual Practice", reminds us that cultivating virtues like love is essential for staying deeply connected to Christ. Love is the foundation of every other virtue—without love, our faith loses its power and purpose. This month, we focus on John 13:34, where Jesus commands us to love as He has loved us. This is more than a suggestion—it is a divine call to embody Christ’s love in every aspect of our lives.
Let’s explore this verse deeply, understanding what it means to love as Jesus loved and how this virtue helps us stay rooted in Him.\
Scriptural Reflection: Understanding John 13:34
Context of the Verse
John 13:34 comes from Jesus’ final moments with His disciples before His crucifixion. This chapter takes place in the Upper Room, where Jesus has just washed the disciples' feet, demonstrating servant-hearted love. He knows that in a short time, He will be betrayed, arrested, and crucified. Yet, His focus is not on Himself—He is preparing His disciples for what is to come.
Amid this sacred moment, Jesus gives them a new commandment:
"A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, just as I have loved you, that you also love one another."
At first glance, this command may not seem new. The Old Testament already teaches love:
- Leviticus 19:18: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself."
- Deuteronomy 6:5: "And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength."
But Jesus does not merely repeat an old law—He elevates it. The standard is no longer "love your neighbor as yourself," but rather "love one another as I have loved you." This is a sacrificial love, a divine love, one that goes beyond human capability and reflects the very heart of God.
Breaking Down the Verse
1. "A new commandment I give to you" – This is not a suggestion or an option. It is a commandment—one that defines the Christian life. Loving others is not an extra duty but the very essence of following Christ.
2. "That you love one another" – Jesus is specifically addressing believers here. Our love for one another is a testimony to the world. When the church is united in love, we reflect God’s glory and draw others to Him.
3. "Just as I have loved you" – This is the heart of the command. Jesus' love is:
- Selfless – He put others before Himself.
- Sacrificial – He laid down His life for us.
- Unconditional – He loves us despite our flaws.
- Forgiving – He extends grace even when we fail.
4. "That you also love one another" – We are called to imitate Christ’s love in our relationships. This means loving even when it’s difficult—when people hurt us, misunderstand us, or fail us. Love is not based on feelings but on a decision to reflect Christ in every situation.
The Call to Love as Christ Loved
This verse challenges us to move beyond human love—which is often conditional and self-serving—and embrace a love that mirrors Jesus. This is the kind of love that heals wounds, bridges divides, and transforms lives.
Practical Application: Living Out Love
Beloved, how do we take this powerful truth and apply it to our daily lives? Here are three ways we can practice love and stay rooted in Christ:
1. Love Through Service
Jesus showed love through action—by washing feet, feeding the hungry, healing the sick. We can reflect His love by:
- Volunteering at church or in the community.
- Helping someone in need without expecting anything in return.
- Doing small acts of kindness—paying for someone’s meal, writing an encouraging note, or simply listening.
2. Love Through Forgiveness
Unforgiveness is a root that chokes our spiritual growth. Jesus forgave even those who crucified Him. Who do you need to forgive today? Let go of bitterness and choose grace.
- Colossians 3:13 (NASB): "Bearing with one another, and forgiving each other, whoever has a complaint against anyone; just as the Lord forgave you, so must you do also."
- If someone has hurt you, pray for them. Ask God to soften your heart.
3. Love Through Words
Words have power. Speak life, encouragement, and truth into the people around you.
- Tell someone you love them and appreciate them.
- Be quick to uplift rather than criticize.
- Share the Gospel—the greatest expression of love.
Rooted in Love, Rooted in Christ
Beloved, love is not just an emotion—it is our spiritual foundation. When we love as Jesus loved, we stay rooted in Him, and our faith becomes unshakable.
This month, let’s commit to:
✔ Loving sacrificially—even when it’s inconvenient.
✔ Forgiving freely—even when it’s undeserved.
✔ Serving joyfully—even when it’s unnoticed.
As we live out John 13:34, may the world see Christ through us. May our love be a testimony of His presence in our lives.
Prayer: A Heart Rooted in Love
Heavenly Father,
You are the source of perfect love. Teach us to love as You love—selflessly, sacrificially, and unconditionally. Remove any bitterness, pride, or selfishness that hinders us from truly loving others. Help us to reflect Christ in our words, actions, and attitudes. May Your love take deep root in our hearts so that we bear fruit that glorifies You. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Stay rooted in love, church family. Let His love shine through you.