“By this shall all men know that ye are My disciples, if ye have love one for another.” – John 13:35 (KJV)
As followers of God, we are commanded to obey the Word of God, which is the Bible. This is the true requirement of discipleship. This lifelong commitment is what fosters growth and transforms lives.
Training in righteousness is fundamental to every believer. When Jesus spoke these words (above Scripture), they were not only for the immediate audience but also for future generations, including those who are still coming to know Him as Lord and Saviour today and those who will do so in the future.
God’s saving grace is available each minute of each day of every year. Daily, someone, somewhere, is drawn away from a life of sin to that of a follower of Jesus Christ. This is happening because someone loves God so much that this love compels them to share Jesus with others. In fact, we are commanded to do so according to Matthew 28:19.
It is this God-kind of love that is the distinguishing mark of a believer and therefore makes us different from the world. Those who are worldly do not know how to love like this. This love that we should emulate fosters unity within the Church and is effective for ministry and witness. This love, when expressed in our actions, words, and attitudes, changes our character to mirror that of Jesus. As disciples, we become more forgiving and encouraging, we serve in a deeper way, we bear one another’s burdens as Galatians 6:2 says, and much more. As Reverend Winston Assanah says, “Loving God is loving people.”
It was this same measure of love that Jesus Himself had that made Him wash His disciples’ feet. This kind of service is filled with humility. Someone referred to this act as Jesus choosing the lowest place to show the highest love, and this aptly describes it. May we be intentional about the depth of our love for others as we journey through life.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, please help us to love just like You love. May we emulate You in everything we do and say. May all who see us see You in us. Forgive us for not loving the way we should. Let our lives be mirrors for Your honour and glory. In the name of Jesus. Amen.
Read: John 15:10; 1 John 4:7-8
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 52; Luke 24:36-53; Joshua 13; Joshua 14