Love as I have loved

​4-14-22
Love, as I have loved
Today’s devotion is based on John 13:34b,35, “As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this, everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.”
Today, as we read through the account of Jesus washing the disciples’ feet and giving them a new command to love one another, he provides us with the answer. Jesus himself is that answer. Jesus is the love who has come to life in the flesh at Christmas. He taught about the kingdom of God and healed many. After bearing all of our sins and shame on the cross and dying, Christ – love himself – comes to life again.
Remember, you are part of the body of Christ whom Jesus commissioned to bring this love to life. Whether you are young, middle-aged or old; fit, overweight or frail; female or male; rich or poor, Jesus uses us as the living stones that make up a living building – the church. No matter how insignificant you may feel, with the constant help of the Holy Spirit, you are a part of Christ’s mission to bring love to life in his name right where you are.
If you think that your present situation does not allow you to do this, step out in Christ’s name to be the change you want to see. By being humble, serving one another, and bearing with one another in love according to the example Jesus gave at the Last Supper.
Please pray with me, “Lord God, equip and lead the women and men of my local congregation to serve together humbly in all ways you have graciously gifted, called, and equipped us to bring your love to life in our local community and your wider church. In Jesus’ name. Amen.