a new command

Jesus gives us a new command today in the One Year Bible reading from John 13:31-14:14. He tells us to love each other.

What's that you say? It's not a new command? God told us to do this back in the Old Testament? Well, that's true. But notice there's something new about the way Jesus says it. He says to love each other "as I have loved you." Ah. That's a big difference.

See, there is some nebulosity in "love each other". There are even ways that we think we're loving that aren't love, like sexual relationships that aren't appropriate. We may have fuzzy feelings for someone, but that isn't the kind of love Jesus is talking about. We don't have fuzzy feelings for our enemies.

But this kind of love means being kind. Being gentle, and forgiving. Wishing the best for the other person, and doing what's necessary to help them. Ultimately, it means laying down your life for them.

A new command He gives us. Love one another. But not just any love.

His love.

God, please fill our hearts with Your love, so that we can love other people the way You commanded us.