My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command. I no longer call you servants, because a servant does not know his master’s business. Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that I learned from my Father I have made known to you. John 15: 12-15
(My apologies for not posting this on Friday)
I am sure that these words of Jesus were extremely meaningful and powerful to those with Jesus when he spoke them. The idea that he would invite them into the more intimate relationship of friendship would have been amazing. However, as we read these words with the understanding of hindsight, I believe they are even more powerful.
Jesus extends to us the invitation of friendship, not a cheap superficial type of friendship, but a costly and meaningful friendship. Jesus is about to back up his words with his life. The words spoken, “Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends,” are not just hyperbole. These words are dripping with the reality of what is on the horizon for Jesus. Knowing what true friendship is and knowing what true love is…Jesus’ command at the end of this section is, “Love each other.”
Am I following the example of Jesus? Am I loving with the love of Christ? Who can I say this week that I loved in a sacrificial way? When this week have I loved in a way that cost me something (time, pride, money, an opportunity, comfort)?
Posted by Mark Michael on Saturday, March 22, 2008
March 22nd, 2008 at 2:59 pm
The analogy of God as the gardener, Jesus as the vine, and us as the branches is a wonderful vision to express our connection with the Divine.
As we love our family and friends we become a part of their being, and therefore have the ability to bring them closer to faith by example and simply our being.
When Jesus talks about being persecuted because of our beliefs he still says we must testify to His Holy Name. It is the right thing to do no matter what the consequences here.
Even in bad times and during severe trials, we still need to love one another and avoid bitterness/anger/vengence. I give these things over to God and ask for strength. It is sometimes so difficult to do that yet I know He is going to help me do what is best, what I need to do.
I have recently been betrayed beyond belief, but as I get through this most holy weekend, I think of the betrayal Jesus faced and my issue seems small in comparison. May the Lord be with all of us today and always.