Abiding in The Vine: Love One Another
Wednesday, February 19
Abiding in The Vine: Love One Another
My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. John 15:12
John 15:12 presents us with a profound and challenging command: “Love each other as I have loved you.” It’s more than just a suggestion; it’s a command from Jesus himself. This isn’t about a casual affection or a surface-level ‘Hi, how are you’ kindness. It’s a call to a deep, sacrificial, you don’t deserve it but God commands it, transformative love that mirrors Christ’s own love for us.
Jesus loved us unconditionally. He loved us when we were undeserving, when we were broken, when we were at our worst. He loved us enough to lay down His life, to endure suffering and humiliation, to become the ultimate sacrifice for our sins. This is the standard He sets for us, the model for our love for one another.
His love is also sacrificial. It requires us to put others’ needs before our own, to forgive readily, and to extend grace freely. It’s not about feeling, but about action. Now, don’t get me wrong this love isn’t always easy, but it is essential. It’s the very foundation of the follower of Christ. It’s the way we reflect God’s heart to the world.
May we all strive to live a life that reflects the boundless love of Jesus, loving each other as He has loved us. Let us pray for the grace to extend this love to those around us, building bridges of connection, understanding, and compassion. May our lives be a testament to His love and His grace, bringing glory to God.
Prayer for today: Jesus, help me to love others as You have loved me. May my love reflect Your heart to those around me. Amen.