“A new command I give you; Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you love one another.” John 13:34-35 (Matthew 26:20-29, Mark 14:19-25, Luke 22:14-30, John 13:1-38)
As the disciples prepare and gather for their evening meal they are sifting through what seems to be cryptic messages from Jesus. They argue among themselves concerning who will have what honor in the New Kingdom. Inability to put away expectations of a tangible, earthly kingdom are causing conflict and pride to arise within the group. The prophecies being fulfilled will make sense soon enough and leave the future generations with indisputable evidence to the Kingdom of God for those who choose to believe, but in their present, they are struggling with what it all means.
The plot to kill Jesus will soon be successful, but on this evening Jesus declares calm in the midst of His storm. In His own darkest hours Jesus bows to wash feet. This is how He shows status and power are not the objective, humility, love and servitude are. The disciples are called to a mutual love, one that will be necessary to sustain them in the days to come. Jesus modeled the true nature of the New Kingdom, now it is up to these me, and us today, to follow it through.
Perfect love is seen in the relationship between God and His Son. God loves us so much He sent His son to die for us. The Son loved His Father so much He never hesitated to do His will, which wasn’t to die, but to love. Remember, the dying was because He loved. This cycle of love is never ending and boundless. It is our example and the mission we have been given. It’s a tall order, but remember, it isn’t merely a suggestion, it is the New Command.
Love,
Gretchen